Thanks guys! NOHUHU, I like the idea of a yoga mat and small tarp. I have an old doormat I've been using when loading/unloading to protect my car (a Corolla, of which I'm testing the car-topping limits), but I don't have anything protecting it from the ground except my attempted gentleness.
And yes, Slaughter, solo is pretty hard to beat. It just takes the right frame of mind. Solitude is like a strong woman; you have to be sure of yourself to enjoy her company.
I've learned to enjoy solo outings more and more, especially since I started doing things like backpacking, kayaking, and (now) sailing before I knew anyone who was also into such things. It also makes scheduling a heck of a lot easier. These days, I have several backpacking and paddling buddies, but I think it might be a while before I convince someone to drop some cash on an AI here in Tennessee, haha.