Hello,
I realize that my question may seem simple but I am a beginner and unsure of this computer stuff. I have Windows XP. Looking in the installed programs, I have a very, very long list of every Windows XP-Software Update since 3/06. Is there something I should be doing with this list? If there is how do I do it?
Thank you for your help, I sure have a lot to learn on this.

Uncheck the show updates box on top of add remove programs.

I assume you are referring to the Add/Remove Programs list? The Microsoft updates should normally not be removed. However, there is a "Show updates" checkbox that can be un-checked to hide them from the list.