Start preparing for your novel. I like to have my idea ready by the first. I also like to have a tentative outline so when November 1st shows up, my head is in the game.
Also, plan your schedule so you have time every day to write. That was the hardest thing for me the first time. I didn't realize that I literally had to do something a day. For a month, it's like a second job.
Join forums, set your home center and start looking around the site. The best thing is to find people in your area who do it and talk with them. Having a strong community and support base makes the experience much more fun than going through it alone!
