Maybe you're looking at formulas.

Try ctrl-` (ctrl-backquote to the left of the 1/! key on my US keyboard)

In xl2003, it's tools|options|view|uncheck formulas.

I don't remember where that option is in xl2007.

Renee,

Just right click on the cell or range of cells you want in that format then
select format cells.  You can then go down to custom and enter mm/dd for the
type.

HTH
Adam Bush

You don't have the date format selected
select the cell and press ctrl+shift+3
you may further refine by entering a custom format as recommended by adambush
i.e. select the cell
press ctrl+1
go to custom format in the end
type mm/dd or dd/mm to reflect the month or the day first, respectively.

Regards