Using Elements 11 - after applying edits through 'guided' I often times receive a 'fractured picture icon' and the edits can't be saved - why?

Elements 11 Photoshop

Can anyone help?  I am losing hundreds of hours in taking pictures, making wonderful edits through 'Guided' but when I attempt to save the edits, say to the Desktop, I oftentimes receive what appears to a 'fractured picture icon' that will not allow me to save them - necessitating a complete repeat of the edits oftentimes, with the same results - what is causing this?

earl