Lots of advice here... but i think the most critical point hasn’t been addressed.... your profile needs some work (Rowing and Sailing. In that order) Please address this issue immediately (kidding, kinda) <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

As per all the prep, planning, diagramming, etc... My 10 cents:

I would suggest you spend some time flying the hull OFF the wire... get comforatble with your hull 1 - 3 feet up... when you really get the hang of that (how weight and wind shifts effect you with a hull up)... go for it. No amount of reading, or preping will take the place of doing it 20 times.

Make sure you can right the boat (Get a bag if needed, or bring crew)... wear your PFD, put on beach shoes (so your feet dont slip) and just do it...

Oh yea, what kind of cat do you sail?

fun video on the wire of my Mystere