Thanks to all your comments, I succeeded today with the transmission. Here are some lessons learned:
1 - I asked for help from a friend. Working alone in a very tight space on jack stands was brutal.
2 - I got the Low Transmission Jack from Harbor Freight for $125 plus tax (link below). It was very handy for the work since the transmission was much heavier than expected.
3- Supported the front of engine.
4 - With everything in place and the transmission on the jack, I began to kick it from the back, closing the gap enough to "gently" adjust the bolts, as one post mentioned.
Thanks again to everyone for the comments. The garage is a mess, but the transmission is in place!
https://www.harborfreight.com/450-lb...BoCedwQAvD_BwE