Basic question but ...

Sorry to ask this...

I have somehow know knock of the power to move using the graphical frame constraints. I used to be able to move along, x, y, or z by moving my mouse over the move axis...now I have to use the X,Y,Z, XY icons from the toolbar.

How do I get back to how it was?

Hope someone can help.

I don't know if this is what you mean, but if your saying that you lost your x y z axis, go to "view" on the top, and select " show transform gizmo"
If this is not your problem, than i'm sorry

Press the "x" key.

X toggles the manipulator handles on or off.