Downloads and emoticons

Can't determine if it's me, my comp, my ISP or DPR or all 4.  I have tried repeatedly to load a photo into a post and waited well over 1/2 hour with the little clock going round and the pop up showing "download in process",(or similar).  Nothing!!  I did finally get through via the 'gallery' but this is not the way I want it.  This process puts a link to 'My Gallery' rather than a link to 'Original'.

Also have not been able to utilize the emoticons.  I have tried almost every way possible and no luck.  Seems others can do it and are able to put them right where they want them.  ????

My computer set-up is very simple.  Windows 7 OS.  IE 9. No other problems with any site.  So, anyone have any idea where the problem might be?

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Don V. Armitage