Yesterday :-(

As usual, I did not get time to doing anything in terms of writing yesterday. I found myself rushing to grade, sign admission forms for grad studies, prepare a quiz, print my fliers for study abroad....all before I had to spend the afternoon running folks to doctor appointments. The evening was spent roasting coffee and practicing with a band for Saturday's Greener Groundz Acoustic Coffee Break at Bread & Bagels. I didn't get home until a little after 9pm and I was pooped! So, again, the book hit the back burner. I decided to let everything go this morning and look over comments from other's in the group - both to me and what folks said to each other. Sally advised that after I get an outline I should look at forms on publisher's website for submission criteria - good idea! I also felt better when I read Jane's comment to Sally about the amount of work that can actually be accomplished using those small chunks of time we have during the day/evening/wee hours :-)

I want this to be an exercise that inspires me; not one that discourages me. Know what I'm saying?

The beginning...

Since I have completed my dissertation, I feel that I am ready to tackle writing my first book; however, I have no clue where or how to begin this process. I assume my first goal will be to clearly define my topic. I am interested in the social, economic, political, and environmental affects of CAFTA on coffee farmers in Central America. I would assume that drafting an outline might be a logical place to start? While I am extremely busy, I am convinced that if I put this on the back burner, that is where it will stay. I think it might actually be a refuge for my sanity in the days to come.

So, my first week's goal will be to take the afternoons on Monday (today), Wednesday, and Friday to begin the foundation of what will surely be one of Oprah's book club favorites!