If for some reason you don't see any improvement run sfc & dism once more. After that, create a fresh set of logs so I or someone else can take a look.
:thumb:well i just got back in after several hours and no problems, so i think your suggestions were right on! and yes i think my windows 8 system does seem to have some more zip now!
so many many thanks again etech and all! have a great year and wishing windows 8... the best!