mid or end of life crises??

Which model computer? Do you know which version of the OS you're running? What's the exact text of the english part of the restart message?

If you have some weird error happening, it may be easier to just start from scratch. (finding and fixing errors can be hard)

That could mean a new computer ($). However, it could also mean "just" re-installing windows.

Do you have the original disk that let's you install windows?
It sounds daunting, but I'm sure you can do it.

Sure, you'll loose a few settings. However, if you copy your important files elsewhere and start over, you'll likely end up with a "fresh" computer that works as you expect it to. You won't miss the fact that your background has changed.

It will probably work better than expected.

i can't do that with this computer, can i?????

I'm pretty sure that grey screen means something has gone very wrong. I don't have a clue as to what it might be though.

This isn't the laptop that Elliot warned us to not sit on top of pillows is it :( ?

I'm not sure if reinstalling OS X will help. Maybe that is another question to pose to the mob? "Grey screen of death on my mac, will reinstalling OS X help/hurt?"

In the mean time, and I'm really grasping here, try this:

Upper left hand corner of your screen is an apple. Click it. The second option it gives you should be "Software Update". Click that.

It will check for new software. If it finds any, install it. If it asks you to reboot, do it. Now cross your fingers.

I doubt that will help, but maybe it will give you hope while you wait for your next mobspin responses?