I fixed it Fran - two things: link has to start with http:// and you have to put your email address in where it says "email". You can right click on the image and display properties to see the exact link.

When you go to the avatar section of your profile, go to the 'set url' box at the bottom left and input the link to your image. Then click "set URL" which should then display your avatar image in the upper left box on the screen. Choose to use that avatar and then save your updated profile.

In any case, you're back in business now. You may have to refresh the page to see your avatar, or exit from the Forums and then re-enter to get the avatar to display on your own computer. It does show on mine after a simple refresh.