So here are the two problems I am having right now. First, almost every time I open a new window in Internet Explorer, a pop up window to install photoexplosion opens up. Sometimes I am able to cancel it, other times it freezes up and the internet freezes with it.
Second, my flash player keeps quitting on me. Several times I have had to go back to restore points only to have it dissappear a day or two later with no modifications what-so-ever.
I have un-installed and re-installed to no avail.
I don't know what these two problems are all about or how to even begin to fix them.
Anyone have any ideas?

Your problem description indicates what you have is probably malware or spyware.

If you haven't done so, please follow the instructions here > HiJackThis prerequisites < There are important measures outlined here which affect and "optimize" the outcome of your HJT log.

Then post your log in a new thread in the Spyware, Adware, Viruses and HijackThis Logs Forum.