I'm glad you're doing it. I have much the same thing going on in my brain with a fantasy (read: magic-based) story. I started 3-4 years ago, and it 's all been a mental exercise so far, but I think about and revise it EVERY day, weighing plot scenarios, character developments, relationships, etc. I therefore totally understand where you're coming from.

I'm sorry I'm not out Portland way, but I look forward to hearing more about it. I'm a big sci-fi/fantasy junkie.

Hell yes, sci fi! That's my favorite type of writing to do. I usually research current science info and let my imagination (paranoia??) go!

Of course I love Ray Bradbury, Stephen King and Kurt Vonnegut, who many argue do not write sci fi, but I find they still work the concepts into some of their writing.

Please Write! There is a serious need for more Sci-Fi of our current age to engage with readers. I am a short story person mostly, however there is a big one sitting on the deck since I was 5, and I still hold onto the pen tight when its time to write it. Making notes was what one writer of books told me, grab 6 or so very different shaped, coloured, textured note books and designate them to different sorts of information, on each page that you write, only write on half the page leaving a wide wide margin that can allow you to make further notes and changes later for final decisions. Find yourself one of those hand held recording devises that you can pick up around the house so when the great moments happen, dish water would not hinder a cick of a button and let the moment be recorded.
I wish you well, and look forward to your postings. If you ever need an artist to create your cover, I am always open for that sort of illustration :O)
It would be great to type, I live far far far away though, ah but what is distance in this world now, not a vast empty space that takes time and more time, but of light speed instant contact and effect, connections on a global level.
Cheers,
Here's to the future!
Leah