Hey Scubaldy;
The home page on my site needs a minute to download the five photos completely before you can see each one; before the next comes up. I know in the states its not a problem but here in SP, it usually takes at least 1 run through and then its okay. I took the slide show off the gallery for this reason. Sorry.
Oh, ps....PLEASE don't ever feel stupid. I can use ALL the advice I can get.....