I was having my usual argument with a memory sucking graphics program that I use (and love, but what the heck) and the mouse went away and then I had the usual problem of shutting down without a mouse. Then Explorer crashed. Rather than let it restart like I have in the past, I just shut down anyway figuring Explorer would work its magic when it started. When I brought the machine up, Desktop Windows Manager wasn't working, even though it said it was. So I turned it off and on (little bar only went about 1/10 of the way) and edited the policy (Event log said it wasn't being permitted) but no avail. Isn't there a way to turn off the policy all together? Anyway, no Desktop Windows Manager --> no Aero --> no fun Stardock stuff.
On the positive side, at least cranky graphics program has more memory to work with. I am almost done with a book cover then I have a couple more. I need dumb cranky graphics program, but skins and icons are so pretty...
What event viewer said: The Desktop Window Manager was unable to start because the desktop composition setting is disabled