After disabling automatic login can't type in login window

MacBook Pro 2009

Upgraded to Lion online last year and maintain updates

In System Prefs disabled Automatic Login

Now I get the expected gray linen login window with User and Guest displayed in the center. Sleep, Restart and Shut Off are at the bottom

I can move the pointer with the built in track pad

I can use the keyboard to adjust screen and keyboard lights

If I don't touch anything the screen dims after a minute like normal

BUT when I click on User or Guest nothing happens. There's no place to type a password. It I hover the pointer over User or Guest and hit "enter" I hear that puff sound, the error sound.

Any help you can offer is greatly appreciated. I'm in the middle of relocating and disabled auto login for added security. I sure got it!

I searched discussions and more for this specific issue and didn't find it so again thanks for any help!