Ins and Outs of my Life

What to write...????

So here is my problem! I have several things I am writing as an author and I just can't decide which one I need to get serious and really work on a little harder and get ready for some publishing in the future. I have several articles in my head (mostly educational stuff) that I could write up and send off to some magazines and local newspapers. But that is not really where my writer's heart is. My heart is in starting a novel, yet I know that is big bones to dig into. It would be better to first get some exposure with shorter opieces such as short stories or articles!
My novel that I am thinking about is about a girl raised in the mountains away from civilization. Her family has shied away from towns and she has never left her mountain home. I think her love interest will come from town and well you get the picture. I have several ideas as to where to go with this but if any of my on-line friends could give me some ideas to toss around I would appreciate it! Please!
I am amazed at the people who read stuff and don't rate it! I rate just about everything I read! Please rate my stuff! I love getting ratings (good or bad). I don't have much stuff on here yet, but I am getting there!