What to do if we are just beginning to navigate the Chapter 7 process on our own without an attorney?

You should obtain the The Chapter 7 bankruptcy packet from the bankruptcy court (federal court closest to where you live).  Complete the bankruptcy schedules (forms).  Review and comply with the requirements for credit counseling.  Complete all of the bankruptcy forms.  Just write not applicable on the schedules which don't apply.  You don't need to notify the creditors because the bankruptcy court will do this after you file your bankruptcy with the court.  That is why it is important to list the names, addresses, account numbers, and amount of each balance and approximate date (month and year) each debt was incurred.  Don't list any creditors with whom you have a zero balance.  You will also need to include the exemptions (exempt property such as your car, clothing, books, etc.)  You will need to select either all federal exemption amounts or all state exemption amounts.  You can't use both state and federal.  In order to determine whether to use all federal or all state exemptions, use the one that has the largest exemption for your personal property. 

When you have completed all of the bankruptcy forms, and complied with the credit counseling and other requirements set forth on the bankruptcy forms, file your bankruptcy packet with the bankruptcy court.  There is a filing fee.  Your bankruptcy takes effect immediately upon being filed with the court.  The court sends notices of your bankruptcy filing to the creditors you have listed in the bankruptcy.  The court will schedule a hearing before a trustee.  This hearing is the first meeting of creditors.  If all issues are resolved at the hearing which is usually what occurs, the bankruptcy trustee will set a date for discharge of your bankruptcy.  Discharge means your bankruptcy has been finalized and creditors won't be able to raise objections after that date.