Hi I'm a newbie as you will able to tell.  

After a couple month of exploring TER I finally decided to take the plunge.  Called a local reviewed provider, explained my newbie status, asked her reference requirements (she goes by instinct) set up an appointment for the following day.  She gave me her incall address and asked that I call a short time before I arrived.

The following afternoon after leaving work I called when I was 30 minutes away, my call went to voicemail and I left a message with call back information.  Guessing she was occupied I stopped at a local watering hole to await her return call.  After an additional 30 minutes I called and her voicemail was full.  Went to location called 2 additional times and left angered and frustrated.

Was able to talk to her a few days later and she apologized saying her phone had broke.

Since this attempt have met with a couple excellent providers but have also had 2 others cancel with very short notice. Have to take their word for reasons. (Incall location unavailable and provider came down with sore throat).

My questions are:  Are these occurrences a normal part of the hobby?  Should I change my selection process? (the providers I did meet with were traveling in my area) Do I put my no show / cancellations in reviews?  Or is it just bad luck?

at one time first timers.  Most veterans will say that you sometimes need a plan B and/or plan C in case something unexpected happens.  Just have an addition few phone numbers along in case you need to make a call.  You might want to get screened by a provider "in case sudden plans take you to her area."  Another option is to get Date Check or RS screened.

(No Call/No Show)

 Unfortunately TER will not approve a review where the liaison never actually occurred even though the reviewer had nothing to do with its not occurring.
You are allowed to post these incidents on your regional board; but no form of permanent, easily found glossary of these indiscretions toward the hobbyists exists here.

A few months ago, I had a very well reviewed independent provider stand me up. She explained that she had unexpected company at the time of our appointment, and simply couldnt answer her cell phone. I had to call her back the next day to inquire...as they say stuff happens.
It sounds like its just bad luck. If you are in the hobby for a few years, you will have run into your fair share of no shows and last second cancellation. Don't let it get you down, more often than not, you will have a good experience.