OS: WinXP HomeEdition.

I've read that one should not run a XP Home Edition
machine from its Admin's account, which seems to be the
way it works by default.  

I devoted a LOT of time to setting up my computer,
including downloading anti-virus, anti-adware, anti-
spyware, Eudora, FavOrg, customizing IE, etc., in the
default account, including adding such programs to the
QuickLaunch Toolbar.

After reading that I shouldn't run as Admin, I tried
creating a new user account with limited privileges, but
the boot-up time was much slower, and the painstakingly
invoked settings were lost.

What's the solution?  Should I simply continue to operate
as Admin?  This is a home setup, connecting to the 'net
via a router.