Originally Posted by: jtaylor379-What do I do about muting? Or are there any general rules regarding muting while playing classically?
[/quote]
I did 2 tutorials on the basics of Classical Guitar techniques that might help answer some of your questions:
http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=10456
http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=10466

Originally Posted by: jtaylor379
-Is there any rhyme, reason or logic in terms of how to pluck the strings? Up, down, whatever works....

Generally you should assign a finger to each string for each section of music or a whole piece if it is short enough. If there are many consecutive notes on one string then alternate your index & middle fingers. Also watch the video closely for my personal preferences. :)
[QUOTE=jtaylor379]
-Is it normal for each of my fingers to create a different quality of sound when I pluck at this point in my beginning playing? I'm assuming classical music should sound a bit more muted anyways when I play - let me know if I'm wrong on this one.

It is normal to get slightly different sounds from your fingers at first. You must gradually work on making them:

-more uniform in strength & dexterity.
-controlled enough to make them do whatever you want (so that you can vary the attack sensitivity at will).

Classical music does not necessarily sound more muted. It is an effect you can use if desired. Some pieces (or parts of pieces) can be quite "bright" sounding. Hope this helps, Jessica. If you have more specific questions, please feel free to ask. Happy playing!