Hey everyone,

I have had this problem for a few months now.  Basically, after 10+ hours or after leaving my computer in standby mode for an extended period, the words below icons disappear, the start MENU gets smaller and I have to RESTART it to get it back to a functional computer.  Here are a few screen shots as to what I am talking about. 
1 - http://i59.tinypic.com/2vrs951.jpg
2 - http://i59.tinypic.com/jsgehe.jpg

I am running Windows XP and this is a WORK computer.  IT will not be able to get to it for a while.  I need this fix ASAP, it is the most annoying problem I have ever had.  Thanks in advance for your help!Have you already read about this?
It is a documented behavior of Windows XP.
Taskbar and Icons disappearing on XP
The article does not explain how this happens.

Here is a video that looks like something similar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyFaQVhJVkM
Unfortunately, they don't explain why it happens.

Hint. Create a new user account. Copy your settings into the new account, or just set up the new account with your preferences.  Contents of 'My Documents' can be copied over.
You may have a damaged user account profile. The quick fix is a new user account and copy over documents and settings.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/811151     <= Windows XP

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/fix-corrupted-user-profile#1TC=windows-7

That is my recommendation

 How does this happen? Forest Gump would say;
  'Things Happen.'   

Apparently, a damaged user profile is at the binary, machine code level. Windows does not have a automatic feature to correct this. Or, if it did, it failed to catch it. The solution is to make a new account and copy over the vital settings and documents. This is descried by Microsoft, which implies it is common and their is no easier solution.

This may also be time to check your hardware.  Clean out the dust. Check the temps. Replace the battery. Do a disc check. Do a memory test. Run non-destructive drive TESTS.