Picture thumbnails don't appear

did you try:
right click --> view --> large icons

I have tried that, nada. I have tried going to Customize Folder > Optimize for Pictures....no luck. Tried going under Folder Options and didn't see anything that might be the problem there.

I just don't know what the heck is going on...and it is hard to edit photos when you have to open them all to find what you need ='/

Start >> Control Panel >> Folder Options >> View (tab) >> Uncheck "Always show icons, Never thumpnails" option (or simply click "Restore Defaults")