External monitor + OS X question

[ProwlingTiger]

I recently purchased an external monitor for my Macbook. I have a question about how to set it up properly in Mac OS X.

Thing is, I want the external to have the top bar AND the dock. I want to just use my Macbook as an over flow screen. Is there a way to do this. Alternatively, I guess I could just close my screen on the Macbook using that method if that's easier.

Thanks,
-Dan

EDIT: Also, is there a way to make all my programs auto-open on the external screen? Dragging them across screens is a little cumbersome each time. Sorry for all the questions, bit new to Mac + external.

 

[Scottyk9]

system pref > displays > arrangement

drag the white bar to the monitor that you want to be primary