keeping the "Favorites" plane open

thanks for getting back to me.

the menu bar is checked, but there is no list, just options on checkin or not checking different bars or toolbars.  My favorite list will not stay open

You don't have to open it to use it. Right click on the Toolbar at the top of the windows and put a check by Menu Bar. Favorites will be listed there and you'll get a dropdown list. If you upgrade to IE8, you'll have a Favorites Bar instead of a pane.