what does it take to START writing a research paper?

-52+ pages of typed, single spaced research notes
-countless hours spent reading
-permanent damage to my back due to carrying numerous large books
-time spent worrying that my topic won't work out
-joy when my teacher tells me that my topic is very good and original
-using my spanish skills to read trial records
-viewing books that are over 500 years old

here's hoping against writer's block as i compose my first sentences. wish me luck!