stop opening several workbooks

Previously posted in Excel 2007 help forum with no replies.
excel 2007 windows 7
Whenever I open Excel 2007 (whether via desktop, taskbar or start button) I get 3 workbooks open. I have not connected these, at least not intentionally. Although I can easily tab thru them using alt+6 the nuisance is that I have to close each book separately.
An on line help suggested that the way to set this up initially was in View-Windows-Workspace. I have not set this up in this fashion, and have had a look to see if it can be undone, but couldn't see how. Also I was advised to try Office button-Excel options-Advanced and in the General tab remove folder name in "At startup, open all files in:" but this is empty. Have found nothing in Excel help about this. I just know there is a simple answer to this but I have been trying for some time now. Would appreciate any help.
Thanks bakert