Sounds like a plan, Jaye. I too hate disturbing spring bulbs, and spring cleanups are necessary against hibernating pests. While the bulbs are in flower you know where to put plants, but I'd opt for some perennials as well which, though they flower only once a season, are less maintenance for your busy life. Hostas give drama and a nice flower mid summer, daylilies can stretch out for a while and are no maintnenace, same with tall liliums (orientals, trumpets, etc) which are also bulbs. Clematis are also very easy.
For the time being until you're more confident, I'd avoid the fussy plants like roses and dahlias.