Hi cgdz, if you want to use the Tools menu, you can show the menu bar temporarily by tapping the Alt key or F10 function key. Otherwise, "Options" is available using the main application menu (button with 3 horizontal bars at the right end of the main toolbar -- some people call it the hamburger).

See also: How to set the home page

If you switch to the built-in "Firefox Home" page, the search bar may still use Google for search results. To choose a different site, see:

Change your default search settings in Firefox

Any progress so far?

THANK YOU SO VERY VERY MUCH !!! I felt as though I were in a room with no windows, no doors... The "alt key or F10 key" info opened a door, and your 2 links give me hope that I'll be able to achieve what I want! Again, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! I've been busy, so I haven't yet gone all the way with this, but I see the light at the end of the tunnel!