Update:
I got to poking around in the settings and was able to left-justify the task bar. I'll keep digging for other Start options to see if All Apps can be made the default..
I share the Dell 38" monitor that work provided for the home office; I just plug the laptop into the docking brick. I have noticed that the big screen doesn't com out of sleep mode when I plug in - I have to hit the monitor switch. Not a major problem but it is a slight annoyance. I'll have to check drivers and keep an eye on the display manager updates.