Windows backup and restore or manually?

I am switching my pc from vista 64 bit to 32 bit. I have the CD to do this, but I need to back up my info.

So......last night I tried to use the "backup and restore center." I chose the all the files there....data files it seemed, which is what I wanted.

An hour later, it wasn't even a quarter done....so I start looking at it and it's backing up everything. Programs I have disks for, things that aren't data files at all, etc. Apparently, choosing "documents" doesn't mean your "documents" folder, it means EVERYTHING on your computer that the center thinks is a document.

Why do I need to backup everything like this....I don't even know if I have enough room on my 120 GB external hard drive, it was taking so long.....

Can't I just do this manually, or might I miss something big? Don't I just need to copy the documents, pictures and music folders? Also, bookmarks and address book? Is there something else I need? I assumed that any program I would have to reinstall with my disc or go back to the website I got it from. What's with the restore center restoring everything?

You can make the job easier by right clicking on folders and then send to. You can send to a flash drive, HD, etc.

What files did you back up? So far I have this list:

documents
pictures
music
bookmarks
address book



On the top right side of my start menu is this:

Mom
Documents
Pictures
Music
Games

The "mom" file appears to have all the others in it, except games. Can I just back up the whole "mom" file. It has things like "app data" and "desktop". Do I need all that?

Also, does anyone know how to save contacts and e-mail from aol? Do I need to save e-mail or just contacts?

Thanks!