I did the certification first because I wanted to see if I could learn the mechanics of building a website and how e-commerce works. That done, I'm going through Boot Camp. Boot Camp seems to make good sense to me because of the certification foundation. I have 2 websites up and going and, you're right, it can be overwhelming. However, if you have good organizational skills, and can plan what you're going to do and when, you can pull it off.
You look like you are on your way. Keep it up!

Warren

I started certificate then started blending boot camp in along the way.

Important especially for beginners to focus on a single web site, learn from that process, and at some point, you'll know whether to add additional sites. Possessing more knowledge and experience by then, you would probably be able to better assess, and decide whether adding additional sites are necessary, advantageous, or even accomplish any long-term objectives you may have had.

I am in the camp, get one website up and running first before looking at a second.

I started with the certification course. Don't know if I will do the bootcamp, time will tell :)

Man, I can't fathom doing another website. I'm being an idiot right now and combining what maybe could be separate niches into my one blog.

My inclination is to start with one. Get 40 posts up.. Learn he ropes (keywording, etc), the venture onto the second with hopefully much more focus and skill.

-Kyle

I started the Certification, and I think just one site at a time.

I personally think that one website built first is best so the lessons learned can assist when building a second one later. Especially if you're new to this like I am.

I also agree that the certification course should be learned before jumping into bootcamp. Again especially for newbies with no experience.

Start off with ONE great website with ONE big idea. Diversification can come later!

One website at a time, dividing your attention doesn't help when you have to focus on getting a site ranking.

I think people should definitely start with the certification courses. Competing in the MMO space for a newbie just doesn't make sense to me.