This is an email from my African son Ben...finally, a voice of reason and caution about this whole idea regarding the move to Pittsburgh...and it comes from a 23 year old kid from AFRICA...because apparently my American friends are all crazy and want me to just throw caution to the wind and go for it...
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Hello Mommy,

I am O K I went to the beach today and it was amazing. I saw a crab I have never seen before. I enjoyed it.

I want you to know that I am fine, so you take your time and come [visit]. I hope to see you and Pete soon.

I am glad to read from you that you want to move to Pete's place but I will want to find out if actually you have taken your time to study him very well for our apearance can sometimes be deceptive. I am telling you this just as a word of caution, you know I love you Mom and I do not want to see you getting worried just because you have entered into a relationship which can easily cause you unhappiness.

I care for you so much I wish I am always with you. Say hello to Sassy and tell her I love.

Love Ben
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What a good kid. I love that boy. Lookin' out for his American mom...very cool. It is a huge risk, for me to pack it up and move to a new state, but I think it is time for a change in my life, and so I am seriously considering it.

Last weekend, Pete told me he wanted to get me a collar. I burst into tears. I told him not to yank my chain with something like that, it's very important to me that it's real and true, and not just a way to schmooze me. I've wanted a collar from Peter for a long time, but he cannot give me one. This is something huge to me, and I do not take it lightly. It's almost like an engagement ring or something, ya know?

Pete, take note, I will go for it, but first I have to study you very well, because Ben said so!!

Love, Sassy Girl