cant find files

how it started: gets logged off immediately after login...even in safe mode
how long problem lasted: about 3 days
my quick fix: full system recovery...i was able to do this because with an HP windows XP they have a recovery thing...im not sure if other computers does
down side: all files were lost
current problem: i was able to search and i found my sister's files i mean all of her files even the ones before the first system recovery (this one is the 2nd but the 1st was because i wanted to...several months prior to this) but none of the admin's files (my files) were found

anyone have a solution??? or an idea of why i cant find my files???

is it a back-up restore disk u made with the hp preprograms?
run a windows search?