Hippo Q., an author?

I want to write a novel. 

I don't really have any experience writing anything outside of academic papers, but I think that it would be really interesting to attempt creative writing.  Most likely, if I do write a book, it will be a romance novel that draws from my friend's and my own dating experiences.  It would also draw from my own silly girl fantasies about love.  I've read enough simple chick-lit that I'm convinced that I can create my own version that is just as amusing and, hopefully, more meaningful.

Right now, this is just an idea but if all goes well (and I actually think up a good storyline), writing may just become my new hobby and creative outlet for 2007.