WinXP hitch

I'm having a problem with WinXP. I bought it about 2 weeks ago and everything was fine. But now things like Outlook Express are taking ages to open, I only have 2 msgs in there though. This is also basically a fresh install, I haven't installed games or apps or anything of the like. And also, the main problem is in my recycle bin it says it has something in it, but it doesn't, so when I click 'Empty recycle bin' it says "Are you sure you wish to delete 'WINDOWS'?" but I've never deleted this, and its annoying me because when I click yes, it makes the scrunching sound but its STILL there, I tried a number of times to get rid of it but I can't. Anyone have any ideas?

Also, one more question. I've saved the Activation code I was given by Microsoft, since I have changed nothing on my computer (No Hardware etc) is it safe to reformat and start from scratch and then enter the same activation code? or do i need a new one?


*takes deep breath*