I think this is a variation of the handwriting recognition bug in Office
XP and 2003. See http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555169 "WD: Word
Quits Unexpectedly When Selecting a Document from the Windows Taskbar".

Deb Kleb wrote:

I have noticed that ever since I've upgraded to Office 2003, Word does not
stay open. I've tried to watch this happening, but haven't caught it yet. I
close a document -- Word stays open. Some time later I'll want to start a
new document or edit an old one, and Word is closed. Why is this annoying
thing happening and where can I correct it? Thanks,