[Kelvin]

I'm making an animation which will be used as emoticons in my Windows Live Messenger using Adobe ImageReady CS2. The animation is exported in gif format.

Now, what I want to ask is:
1. Why does the size of my emoticon always reduced until "very small" when is used in Messenger? (I know this is the default behaviour of Messenger when creating a new emoticon, but there is a 3rd party emoticon that is bigger in size than the standard size. How could this possible? Is there any "special" scripts?)
2. Is there anyway to make my emoticon bigger? One thing I've ever heard is reducing the canvas size until it is the same with the object. I've found this not too efficient. (sometimes the image is distorted)
3. Last question, any tips on good emoticons? I'm using a "Simple" theme.

Thanks a lot

peace
vixklen