[fnftwo] Problems with PSP & Photo Shop

I am using XP version of Windows, and I am working in PSP X.  If I open up a new transparent layer, flood fill with black, and then I select my preset shapes, ellipse, and with a vector layer, I draw out an ellipse, using 1 for the width.  I want to add another layer, and then select my paint brush tool.  Now the problem starts.......I can not get the brush to work.  Also, my clone tool, and eraser won't work.  What in the world is going on????  The last time I used it, I didn't have a problem at all.  The pen tool will work.  Why will some tools work, and others won't.   I am having the same problem in Photo Shop too.  The same tools won't work.   Has anyone of you had a problem like this?  It doesn't sound like I need to reinstall PSP X because I am having the same problem in Photo Shop.  Where would I look to check my settings?   I have PSP 7, and the tools are working fine in it.  I haven't tried the other versions that I have.  I guess I will try that next.   Hugs, Louise