How to set default window size/internet shortcuts?

I use only a few websites for reference on this machine, so I like to use desktop shortcuts to review these pages rather than keep a browser open all the time. My problem is that any shortcut I make opens a mid-sized window that I have to click to maximize. Sure it's a small problem but after so long it drives me nuts. How do I make my shortcuts open full sized windows? (I have had this problem with Windows XP, Vista, and now Windows 7)