Welcome again, akittrell.
You really have not started off on the wrong foot at all though it may feel like it. There are plenty of members who have the same feeling as they start out. Just try to look at the responses you feel are harsh, as having the interest of your dog in mind (with some exceptions) and you will do just fine. And you will learn there will be members you will come to ignore as that is just the way it is in an internet community-not unlike many towns and communities you pass through.
However there is one major issue you need to take care of:
WE NEED SOME PICTURES!
of your new furball and the rest of your pack.