An error occurred applying attributes to the file. Access is denied.

When I attempt to remove the "read only" attribute from My Documents or certain files, I get the following message: "An error occurred applying attributes to the file. Access is denied ".
The certain files that I refer to, are files that I create as Word documents, save and then move to another folder, once I move them, I can no longer open them or move them back. Even an MP3 file that I moved to another location is no longer accessable.
I'm logged on as the administrator so I do not understand why I cannot change the attributes.
I'm running XP Home Edition 2002 with SP1.
Any help would be appreciated.