Nana,

Firstly, Incredimail IS spyware. It is cutsy but I do not recommend it for that reason.

Secondly, Avast could cause problems with sending email, but not writing it. This usually occurs from improperly configuration of the SMTP settings.

Thirdly, When did you install Windows SP2? In the last week, I have had to help restore 2 users computers which crashed without warning after installation.
Did you trouble start after SP2 install?

We are here to help you, so let us know how you are doing. I use OE and Pegasus mail as a backup. Thunderbird is also a nice backup, or mainstay email client. Both work nicely with Avast.

Good luck