Can't print with OS X 10.6.8. "Media tray empty"; "Printer offline".

MacBook Pro with wireless DSL connection; HP 1006 LaserJet printer, USB connection

With 10.6.7 I had been getting the Media tray empty message for a while when there was (standard 8.5 x 11) paper in it, but I could still print. After upgrade to 10.6.8, I was also told the printer was offline, when it should be recognized online, and it wouldn't print.

I started following some instructions I found in a users forum and succeded in deleting the printer, but it doesn't take me to the next step, adding a printer (the same one). So now I have no printer at all.

I am a total dunce so please don't tell me to start doing things I won't be able to understand or do! (Thanks, just had to get that in.) Can someonoe help me work this out? It's costing me actual money not being able to print.

I know there's a lot about printing problems with 10.6.8 on this forum, but I can't understand most of the discussions and the ones I can read don't quite match my situation.