I try and protect the tub as best I can, using the original cardboard packaging as a make shift cover for the tub. 

I have a large cardboard box I toss every receipt into.

From what I understand, this CA exemption grants the issuer an exemption from securities qualification for certain limited securities offerings.

And the issue really isn't your QI although they should have talked to you about the kind of lender you would need before you were "surprised". 

I went to Walmart, and bought a pack of 50 4/6 envelopes and color cardboard paper and a paper trimmer, $30.

Salaried employees, not commission, are not considered broker/dealers.Unlicensed broker/dealers can open the issuer to liabilities, including bad boy status.

My advice is to just do what you want to do and as you have success, you can share that with your family to show that you're not going to be living in a cardboard box under a bridge even if it doesn't all go exactly according to plan. 

I've been seeing we buy houses signs poorly written on cardboard and even gotten a letter in the mail about a local speaking event on flipping. 

Don't be afraid to unplug the fridge and take off the cover (sometimes cardboard) on the back at the bottom; usually you need a 5/16" nutdriver, and sometimes that gives you a good shot at the condenser coil.

If you're not already working with an attorney to help you draft your issuer entity's operating agreement, I definitely recommend this also.One last comment: in my experience, knowledgeable investors will expect to see a PPM and, if you don't have one, it is often a red flag.