Hi Dawn...and welcome
Having brought a new hybrid for the wife, i guess the most important thing is to get to see the bikes yourself.
She was quite definate when she saw specific bikes...no, i dont like that one...hmmm, maybe that one...definately not that one etc etc.
I'd suggest getting to a LBS (local bike shop) to lookee. It'll also allow you to try them out if possible. Its very important to get the right size, and one you feel comfortable on. You may see one bike, and fall in love with it.
Is it hilly where you live. No ? Then perhaps the 3 gear Raleigh Caprice will be the simplest to ride and easiest to keep clean.
The best thing to remember is, there are not really any rubbish bikes with respectable manufacturers. You need to make sure you dont overpay for a particular bike. Do your homework and compare.
You may (but not always) pay a bit more at a LBS...but you get to try it..and you've got somewhere to go if you have any problems.
Hope that helps ...