If you’ve been following my original post about the naturalization process, you probably noticed how many moving parts there are … forms, interviews, study prep. Well, there’s a major update: USCIS is rolling out a new civics test and adjusting some of the evaluation criteria. These changes will apply to new applicants starting October 20,…
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Los Angeles Marriage License Fees 2025: What You Need to Know
Update – 10/07/2025Big news: the fee increase in Los Angeles County has been delayed. The Board of Supervisors was set to finalize the jump (from $91 → $176 for a public license, $85 → $220 for confidential, plus higher civil ceremony and witness fees), but after pushback from the wedding industry, the proposal was referred…
The Best Spot to See the Hollywood Sign: Lake Hollywood Park
If you’ve ever tried to get a decent photo with the Hollywood Sign, you already know it’s not as easy as it looks. The very first time we were here, we hiked as close as possible to the Hollywood Sign. It was supposed to be an easy hike but I guess I was (still am)…
Gratitude, Identity, and Choosing to Belong
My First Fourth of July as an American Citizen This is my first Fourth of July as an American citizen — and for me, it’s a big deal. I wasn’t born here. I wasn’t handed this identity at birth. I chose it. I went through the process. I stood, raised my hand, and pledged my…
Notes from an Anti-Influencer
I’ve been blogging since 2006, but if you look at my following, you’d probably wonder why it hasn’t “taken off.” Honestly? I know exactly why. I’m not an influencer—not in the traditional sense, at least. I don’t follow trends. I don’t curate my feed. I prefer being behind the scenes unless I randomly feel like…
My Naturalization Process in the U.S.: What to Expect and How to Prepare
I know this post is a bit overdue, but life happened and I didn’t want to gatekeep my experience—especially for anyone who might be navigating the same journey. Becoming a U.S. citizen was a milestone that came with nerves, a lot of paperwork, and a very real sense of purpose. Here’s how I went through…
