Hi trazharvey,
In order to enter html into the description, you just need to click the "Switch to Text Mode" link above the editor.
I'm not exactly sure what you're referring to above but no pop up boxes should be necessary to enter html into the description editor.
If you need further assistance, I recommend filing a support case using the appropriate link on our helps page.
http://www.auctiva.com/free_auction_software_help/help.aspx
-Mike