background image repeats vertically

I'm trying to use a background image much like was suggested in Body Style. I pretty much copied the example code "Setting a background image for the body: background: url(/wp-content/themes/atahualpa3/images/backgr.gif) repeat top left;"

My problem is two fold - the background gif file repeats across the screen as desired, but also several times as you scroll down the blog. Also I'm noticing that it looks very chunky with the gradient fade.

Take a peek at my site and you will see what I mean: DrSoszka.com

Thanks,
Shawn