8) ...do these.....
as suggested above "msconfig"...remove everything there except enteries related to antivirus.
msconfig again...remove unwanted processes..
delete temporary internet files/clear history.
disable XP themes...
defragment the HDD
If u have created some users,delete them except admin
clear some fonts from fonts folder....
try out "bootvis" a utility by XP itself.....check it out on
http://www.weethet.nl/english/hardware_bootvis.php
ALL THE BEST!