Problems with Sharing directories and printers

Currently I have 2 pcs on the same household network. From time to time we attempt to share directories. The only way I am able to make this happen is to go to the “source” machine and once again allow a given directory to be shared. If we add a new file to that directory, the new file is inaccessible even though all other files in that same directory are accessible. I have a similar problem with sharing the printer. Every time the machines are turned on it seems that I need to “re-share” the printer so that we are able to print from the “remote” pc. In my mind something is definitely wrong. It has been suggested that I disable the firewall on both machines. I relunctantly followed that advice to no avail. Any suggestions on what I can do to resolve these issues would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Which operating system are you using? XP Pro or Home?

xp pro. Sorry for the delay in responding.