[ripe]

From one writer to another, I wish you the best of luck in your endeavor. The unfortunate part for me is I work so many long hours, it really is hard. I think you have a good start with cupboard materials and tools. My cookbook is on hold as I write my novel, a murder mystery, hmmm nice diversion......and no, it's not about a chef who chops up her lover and feeds him to patrons. LOL

I would decide first on your target audience which will make a huge difference. At that point you might decide not to include soups, appetizers....etc....

The one I'm writing is geared toward the cash strapped........seems I've told ya a bit about me.....he he.......I believe when we are delveing into the abyss of something new, it is best to start from your heart and your roots, it always makes the most believable, heartfelt reading.

Good luck!
Toni

BTW: when people try to tell you, "if you're not Emeril, it will never sell." and they will, just remember, when we believe in ourselves and move forward we don't always succeed at first, but constant persistance and belief in ourselves opens otherwise closed doors. I once read this great saying, "People who don't fufill their dreams, won't encourage yours."