OK-how do I get an app to start with X?
Let's say I want Abiword to open up when XFCE4 starts-how do I do it?
Thanks.

In XFCE, you can add autostarted applications from XFCE menu -> Settings -> Autostarted Applications

But how would I do it in Gnome/Kde or whatever Window Manager?
Also-How about differing distro's-is there a config file for each distro?

If you're looking for a universal solution, you can try creating a file called .xprofile in your home dir (~/.xprofile). Add all the commands you want autostarted to that file

if you use KDE, then in your home directory there will be a hidden directory called 'kde' (/home/*yourname*/.kde). In that directory there is a directory called 'Autostart' (/home/*yourname*/.kde/Autostart/).

If you have an application that you want to start when KDE starts, create a simlink to the app in the Autostart directory.

To create a simlink, use the 'ln' command. So for instance, if you wanted Kmix to start when KDE starts, change to your Autostart directory:

cd /home/*yourname*/.kde/Autostart

and then issue the following command:

ln -s /usr/bin/kmix kmix

Check the man page for 'ln' for details.

(Would say more but I have to go, the wife is giving me the "we're late" look.)