Hi everyone, and sorry for being late to reply. I guess I don't have my settings right, as the forum didn't notify me that I had any response.
Huge and sincere thanks for all the comments and some INGENIOUS suggestions! I think the biggest mistake I made is to tell my friends I'm doing this...they've flipped out, and it's been a real damper.
They worry because I am a very friendly, smiley person, and they think that'll attract deadbeats. But NICE does not equal STUPID.
Thank you all for your positive "can do" attitude. What a wonderful resource this community is.
Gratefully,
Critternut