Clearly you don't want to make this move so don't do it. Your home, garden, studio, friends, family and easy drive to work sound terrific. I love California, have lived here my entire life, but you are correct about the outrageous property values. Don't forget the hideous traffic. Yes, the weather is usually divine and some of the California beachside communities can be enticing. If you had mentioned specifically where you would be living, you would have received even more explicit counsel from natives like myself. If, for example, you were being sent to Santa Barbara, Carmel or Sausalito, I would indeed give it some serious thought even with over-priced property since these communities are exceptional. It would be a hideous trade off to leave your home for this promotion with an after-work life doomed to a dark, small California condo in an overcrowded building located in an undistinguished beachside community. Life is short so enjoy your present life. Another, interesting opportunity will come along. You sound like you take great pleasure in your domicile, friends and community. Stay put and enjoy puttering in your garden or your studio. Talk to your boss and explain your decision in light of what you have shared. He would have to be brain dead not to see your well thought out justifications.

Obama's support of Clinton is well placed. I was an early supporter of Obama and had little enthusiasm for Senator Clinton's presidential aspirations. However, she would clearly be a compelling choice for Secretary of State with gravitas and reputation to set her in good standing throughout the world. I see little evidence that she would be in opposition to Obama and agree with your assertion that the differences in their foreign policy positions are razor thin. She has demonstrated she was a team player during the Denver convention and subsequent campaign events. I fear some of the resistance to Clinton remains a hangover from the bitterly fought primaries. We need to get over that and recognize both Obama and Clinton are committed to moving this country in the right direction. I think the selection of Clinton reinforces Obama's quiet self confidence, and I trust his instincts. In addition to this well written piece, during your lively appearance on yesterday's Hardball, you made strong, well-thought-out arguments in defense of Clinton. Keep up the good work.