Getting the brushes to stay and making a certain type of icon?

I have two questions.

I use PSE, and am able to use brushes for versions of PS lower than PS7. I use the Image Packs for everything that is for a higher version. My problem is, when I edit-> define brush, the brush only stays until I select a different brush category, and I have to do it all over again. Constantly. Can anyone help me?

Second, does anyone know where there's a tutorial for icons that are kind of faded, with the white gradient look? I've attempted a couple different ways, but they haven't come out that great.