When I turn on my desktop (Dell, WINDOWS XP) it seems to start normally then a popup says:
"windows cannot load locally stored profile, it will use a temporary one. possible cause of this error include insufficient security rights or corrupt local profile".  I then see all my documents and everything they have all gone and the computer is like how I first got it with a few exceptions (my QB 2005 is still loaded & up to date, for example).  I haven't loaded anything new in a while EITHER.  Although it is making an odd sort of grinding sound from the tower every few minutes.  Help...?
"I then see all my documents and everything they have all gone and the computer is like how I first got it with a few exceptions"

You're looking at a profile that has nothing setup on it, like your profile until you STARTED to CUSTOMIZE it.  If you logon as administrator you / can create a new profile / copy all your stuff (desktop, shortcuts, favorites, etc.) to your new profile / reboot to that new profile.

"Although it is making an odd sort of grinding sound from the tower every few minutes. "

 Danger Will Robinson...Danger    

Grinding sound could be hard drive / FAN bearing / gremlins    Back up your stuff NOW...just in case.

Alan <><  

much thx!!