A change of life?

My friend Jess, from Texas, is considering a move to Portland. He's a visual artist--mostly watercolor and oils--has been painting all his life and taught for years. I met him during his teaching years and saw a great many college students blossom and grow in the light of his gaze. They found him demanding but inspiring. He taught them to take art seriously and to believe in themselves, but he never accepted less than their best efforts, and they labored hard to win his respect.

He moved to Seattle about six months ago and might make a go of it there, but he isn't sure it's the right place. I would love to lure him to Portland, so we spent the gray, chilly morning drifting around art galleries and various artists' studios. Then in the afternoon suddenly there was a little sunshine, so I drove him out to see my favorite bridge in the world. He bought us hazelnut milkshakes, and then we went out to Sauvie Island. I love the feeling of possibility and imagination that comes with major life changes. We get to reinvent ourselves, start again, break out of old boxes and dance.

Many thanks for the hearts, stars, and comments for the imaginary ice-dancing yesterday.