Dave,
It sounds like you are trying to create a form using the controls from the
Control Toolbox. When your document opens, the "Design" toolbar opens,
doesn't it? Hate to say it, but you would be much better served using the
formfields on the Forms toolbar and protecting your form. There is a great
tutorial by Dian Chapman on this page:
http://word.mvps.org/FAQs/TblsFldsFms/LinesInForms.htm
If this is not what you are having problems with, sorry, but you'll still
learn a lot about forms! HA!
Bill Foley
Microsoft MVP (PowerPoint)