was trying to get rid of a couple of programs i didn't want - ha! I hit a wrong button somewhere and told it I didn't want any icons, or prompts or anything to show. I get a lovely blue screen after I log in. I did manage to get to task master and I know the pictures (they show up before I sign in as a background) are there, but apps page won't show, so I have lost total control.

Method 1:
Place the computer in Clean Boot state and then try to update the Video card drivers and check if the issue persists.

Step 1: How to troubleshoot a problem by performing a clean boot in Windows Vista or in Windows 7:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135
Note: After clean boot troubleshooting step, refer to the section "How to reset the computer to start as usual after troubleshooting with clean boot" in the provided link to return your computer to Normal startup mode.

Step 2: Follow the steps to update the Video card driver:
a. Press Windows Key + X key and click Device Manager.
b. Expand ‘Display Adapters’.
c. Right-click on the Video card listed and click on ‘Update Driver Software’.

Method 2:
Perform System Restore and check if it helps.
How to refresh, reset, or restore your PC:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/restore-refresh-reset-pc
Note: Refer to the section "Restore your PC to an earlier point in time".