Julie,, sounds like you are on the right track ,, just dont get caught up in the "over-build" syndrom that a lot of folks (including me) seem to do,, acquire stable frame, and build a good solid wood tear on top and secure the two together well and you have a solid uni-body unit that will survive most conditions and give ya a bunch of years of pleasure,,
being single also, sounds like I need to date an interior decorator, a good cook, etc etc,,,,,
keep us up on your success on putting a tardrop together,,, and as always take a lots of pictures,, we loves us some pictures
chipper