Quote - I really don't understand how layers work in Photoshop.  When I use multiple layers, only the top layer is visible.  If I try to play with opacity, I can make the top layer more transparent and wispy, but can't blend layers to make them both very sharp and clear.

What's the skinny on layers?

Try changing the 'blend mode' of the top layer.  Also try gausian blur on the top layer, then change the blend mode.  You can get some interesting effects that way.