I can help you with the avatar stuff.  Click on the "my options" at the top of this page and there is a small box that allows you to upload an avatar.  The larger box is for a signature if you want to add one.

"It is good to see ourselves as others see us. Try as we may, we are never
able to know ourselves fully as we are, especially the evil side of us.
This we can do only if we are not angry with our critics but will take in good
heart whatever they might have to say." - Ghandi