My 3rd year as being naturalized American citizen

It was a week ago when I became a naturalized American citizen. This year is my 3rd year. It took me a while to decide to give up my Filipino citizenship. It was not easy but I did it. It took me eight (8) years to apply finally for an American citizenship.

My processing was easy. I think I waited for a month before I first received my notice that my application was accepted. The next month after I went to the US Immigration in the city to have my finger printing. They also gave me a CD and book to study about the US history. The month after I did received another noticed that I will have my interview. I did study the US history seriously and played the CD every time I am in the car or at home. It helped me a lot to learn the US history. I was very ready when I had my interview. I remember I was asked about four (4) questions. I also had my oath to tell the truth. I did a written exam and read few words. It was a very easy interview. I thank God that I passed and so as my family.

It was September 14th of 2010 when I finally received my certification of being an American citizen. There were many applicants during the oath ceremony. I am the only one who comes from the Philippines. I thought the ceremony is inside the building. Unfortunately, it was outside. It was very chilly that day. It feels like autumn. I do wear a jacket to cover my dress.

How about you? Are you an American citizen? Do you have plans of applying of becoming an American citizen? It is very easy to apply. All you do is asked for a form online. They can mail it to you. What I did was? I study the US history online to learn more about US history. It does help me a lot before my interview. You have to make sure that you learn information especially your travel outside the USA. All you do is pay attention to your passport. You can study the US history and questions are mostly personal for your interview. I am not sure how much is the fees now to apply for an American citizen. I knew we paid $675 three years ago. They accept check or money order. I wish you good luck.

My 11th year here in America

It was February 16th of 2002 when I first arrived in San Francisco, California. It was a very long flight from Manila to San Francisco via Philippine Airlines. I cannot forget I am carrying my X-ray result with me all the time. It was a tiring flight being my first time flying in the international flight. The foods that the airlines served were very delicious. I still remember this mean woman telling me that I can use other bathroom. I was inline because I need “to go” so bad. As a first timer, you are still learning your emotions during the very long flight. I remembered I was interview by the Immigration officer and asking about a certain documents. I did not bring it with me. I replied to him that my fiancé that time now my husband submitted it in the US Embassy in Manila, Philippines. I am glad that he believes in me and stamp my passport as my port of entry.

It was 34 degrees when I first step out at the Buffalo International Airport in New York. It felt like I am inside the freezer. Can you imagine from 90 degrees to 34 degrees in 24 hours? I am sure that your body is shock with the temperature changes. Life has been great since then. I am very blessed with two kids. My first job is in the nursing home for seven months but have to stop when I gave birth. I visited the Philippines for four times. The recent was last year of July 2012. My kids are both baptized in the Philippines. I lost the best man in my life, my father, whom until now I miss so badly. I know that he is very happy in heaven.
I had been to some States like Georgia, Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Chicago. I also went to Canada and Japan. I love the steak with mushroom and asparagus. I still eat Filipino foods everyday.   I learned how to drive and have my driving license. I also become an American citizen.  These are some of my achievements since I live here in America. I want to say thank you to my husband for loving me as I am. I want to say thank you to America for accepting me as I am as well.

7 Years

Tomorrow, the 16th is my 7th year since I arrived here in America. How that happened? It is

fresh in my memory that it was 34 degrees and it felt like I was inside the freezer when hubby

picked me up at the airport. It was cold for me that time. Life is great though different, having my own family

is the best thing ever happened to me and meeting real friends that worth keeping for. Many things happened

in the last seven years. I lost my brother- -in law and my father, but came my two kids who makes me a better

person. We moved to a bigger house. I went back to the Philippines three times and  hoping

to visit my family again. I missed my Mama most of them all. I plan to apply a citizenship this year. I hope I

can drive my own car, that would be my best accomplishment for myself.