When you finally get into the BIOS settings you should see an option to change the system time. If the clock still fails after you change it in the BIOS you may need to have the internal battery changed.
I'm more of a "fix it with a hammer" kinda guy when I get mad- don't laugh, you'd be surprised what the expert application of brute force can accomplish but I don't think the wifey would be to happy to see her new baby with a hole or dent in it. Anyway, thanks a million. I should be able to sort out the icon myself at least. Last word, XP is a groovy system.