I found that by resetting the text cursor back to default (normal) stopped 'EoAExperiences.exe' from running and returned my machine to its normal speedy self. Cured.
The bigger wider text cursor was one of the main features of the 2004 release. I didn't bother to test whether mine was a faulty installation or that 'EoAExperiences' normally grinds machines to a halt.
Hope it helps... DH