Yes Virginia, you are being paranoid. But, that's not uncommon with new owners and veterans alike. Chickens, unlike many other pets we choose to keep around us and enjoy require unique circumstances that are not that out of the normal. Like anything a great maintenance program, diet, self restraint and knowledge are the key stones to any good foundation for the hobby. They bring you a lot of joy if you let them and some times a lot of heartbreak at the same time and wonderment. If you want to create a unique and interesting micro environment where you can watch, study and learn some things about yourself along the way..chickens are great for that. At some point one will get sick, one will get lice and mites, one will cause chaos in your flock, one will break you're heart and one will help you realize something amazing within yourself, these are right for you. If you want them because it seems cheaper to grow your own eggs, than they probably won't work out as well. The chicks are cheap, everything else can get expensive just really depends on how far you want to go with it. I encourage everyone to learn as much as they can, read as much as they can and visit someone who has them before hand as much as they can. A little or a lot, you are a farmer with chickens. Its a commitment like any other pet in the cold and snow, rain and wind, blazing sun they'll depend on you. Requires patience, understanding, acceptance and a lot of pre planning. Can't just drop them off at the kennel for a ski weekend. If you think you are capable and willing to do this and succeed at it, go for it!
I think bantams are just fantastic and their eggs are amazing. You might have less issues with coyotes and such with birds that free range near your house. Plus, their poos are smaller!
