Actually, those times we (the groomers) DO suggest drugs, it really is for the good of the pet equally as much as it is for the safety of the groomers.

I am really glad you were able to do a lot of it by yourself.

Some hints about clipping the belly:
- use a short clipper blade, like a #10
- be aware that mats will pull the skin up and the skin can VERY easily slip in between the teeth of the blade. Make absolutely certain that the skin is flat and not folded or you WILL cut her.
- 2 friends is better than one friend. Even the professionals often wish for just one more hand. One person should hold the cat upside down with a front leg in each hand and the head up against her body. The person with the clippers will need to be holding them in one hand which leaves one hand for one of the hind legs. Here is where the 5th hand comes in handy. That other rear leg will curl up and you will have a hard time getting to the belly (and making sure the skin is flat).

good luck.