Hey paulapoo - The link I posted above is Yorkietalks picture help - and this is another option for you if you still have trouble with posting
First thing you need to do is make sure your pictures are the right size ...and this is an easy program for beginners - It's very easy.
Go here -
http://bluefive.pair.com/free95.htm & Scroll to PixResizer to Download the program.....Depending on the size of your original image you just have to click ONE SIZE (USUALLY 50%)
or 460 Pixels and it resizes it for you...
SAVE YOUR PICTURES AS JPEG’S or they will not show as thumbnails.
ONCE you resize and want to upload photos into a post ...
In your post, Scroll down and you’ll see Additional Options
Click MANAGE ATTACHMENTS
Click BROWSE to find the picture on your Computer
Double-Click the picture – then click UPLOAD
Click Submit REPLY
as far as an Avatar - I'll send you a pm with my email addy