Acknowledging my accomplishments so far...

So here's where I am:

- I've met with my business partner, Stella, who was prepared enough to hand me a copy of the NYC SBS Business Plan guide, and another guide informing us of all the things a retail business needs to know - permits, rules, the fact that we businesses don't just take out our trash like everyone else does...it's a lot of information to digest. I am currently in the process of writing a first draft of the business plan ( the bookstore side ) to slingshot over to her.

- I'm in communication with Andy Laties, THE man to talk to in regards to independent bookstores, and the Author of "Rebel Bookseller", the guide for people who want to start a bookstore. You can read the book online for free at books.google.com. Andy and I are planning to get together soon to plan out my course of action.

Andy also writes the blog biblioexpeditions.blogspot.com

- I've read Rebel Bookseller, which contains a lot of wisdom in regards to starting an independent bookstore, and teaches you the importance of vigilance and creativity, and of learning how to break the rules.

- I've been introduced to Ria Julien through a friend of mine - she apparently runs a bookstore/cafe. I am awaiting her response.

- I've decided on my ideal location, which is along a major pathway of foot and subway traffic - and also a real estate opportunity akin to the firehouse deal we all remember from Ghostbusters...and about as financially sound.

- and, of course, I have started this blog, which along with keeping me on task of creating this business, will also help others to realize that the things you want to accomplish in life are actually within your grasp.

Pushing Ahead...and quite a few Breakthroughs

Well, as I have not yet made this blog public, I am basically talking to myself...if I get into action, though, it will not be long.

After the initial postcard market research, I received a slew of comments...most of which have actually be quite helpful and inspiring..and has allowed me to become present to what the neighborhood may want.

The main wall I have been coming up against, however, has been money and time: the time it takes to put together the business plan, and the money that needs to come about, in one way or another - plus the fact that time spent on putting the bookstore together is time not spent on the day job, earning money and allowing me to work on this project. All I ask of you, dear reader, is to not let this be my reason for not making this happen.

More in an adjacent post.