First of all, Windows 98 is notorious for freezing. Aside from closing programs, you can clear your Recent Documents folder. I dont know how you do it in 98, but in 2000, go to Start->Settings->Taskbar and Start Menu->Advanced, and there is a button to clear out all previously viewed documents. That helps alot. Also if you get a program like Window Washer that cleans your temp files and such and it will improve your uptime. But, with 98 you will have to reboot everyday pretty much. I never got an uptime of more than three days with it.
Oh and when you clean your mouse, make sure you get the dirt wrapped around the little moveable bars inside. That is the one part i missed when i first cleaned my mouse and i thought it was broken. Of course i figure it out after i buy a new one. D'oh!
