tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65998805704003934452024-03-13T13:03:00.681-07:00From Philippines to USAFelicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-1038462402316089282009-07-10T16:24:00.001-07:002009-07-10T16:37:15.650-07:00California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) Result<div align="justify">I just received the result of the <a href="http://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com/">California Basic Educational Skills Test (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">CBEST</span>)</a> that I took last June 13. My status was: Not yet passed. That means I had failed on one or more of the 3 sections of the test. I got a total score of 125 which was more than the passing score. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Unfortunately</span>, I needed 4 points for the writing section to pass. I still have to retake the test no matter how high my total score was. The 3 sections, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Comprehension</span>, Math and Writing, should meet the minimum passing score which is 41. If one of the sections got 37 points, it would be OK as long as the total score reaches the passing score. Mine was 33. I have to improve my usage, spelling and punctuation. I thought I'd pass still even if I fail in Writing because I was confident that I will get a high score in Math. But I was wrong, I need to pass each section, no matter how high my total score is. It is different from the test that we have back in Phi. If I had known, I should have reviewed my 2 essays and paid more time in my usage of words. I was aware that I kept using the same words many times. It was just because of my morning sickness that I didn't do it well. I was hurrying to get over with the test. Among all examinees, I was the only one who used the restroom pass. I went outside 3 times for me to eat crackers and drink water since it was not allowed inside the testing room. I will surely do it better next time. Wish me luck then for my next test in Writing. </div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-23763531889107971812009-07-05T14:41:00.001-07:002009-07-10T17:00:07.442-07:00American Independence Day<div align="justify">Celebrating Independence day here in US is really different from where I came from. Of course the date is different because the Philippines Independence day is on June 12. It is different on how every resident of America celebrates it. Starting from July 1, non-profit organizations start selling fireworks and residents are buying them for July 4th. In Philippines, selling of fireworks starts in December. Filipinos don't have fireworks during that day. Firework displays are what people, including us, look forward to every July 4. Filipinos will not stop playing with fireworks from December to January (Christmas and New Year). But how we celebrate doesn't really matter. The most important thing is that we remember one of the most memorable events that happened to our country.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-48072954643981030842009-06-06T13:59:00.001-07:002009-07-10T16:35:56.387-07:00Teacher Credentialing<div align="justify">Alright, I have decided to take the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) on June 13. I just registered online for the test and paid a $40 fee. I am hoping that I will pass the test. I am just worried because I might be experiencing a bad morning sickness that will prevent me from taking the test seriously. I heard that food and drink is not allowed inside the testing room so I have to go outside for a pregnant woman's necessities.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">There are 4 California Educator Credentialing Examinations but I chose to take the CBEST first. If you want to learn more about it, you can check it <a href="http://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com/">online</a>. You can also register online and take the test at your assigned venue. You may visit the website now.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-46191139398075482312009-05-04T15:38:00.001-07:002009-07-10T16:45:53.153-07:00I Passed My Driving Test<div align="justify">I had my 4th driving test (behind-the-wheel) last May 3 at downtown's DMV. I decided to take the test here in Bakersfield instead of taking it in Arvin which is 25 minutes away from Bakersfield. I failed twice there and would not want to feel disappointed again. I feel sad because we spent more than an hour to get there and take the test but only failed. So I told hubby that this time around, I would take the test at the city's DMV. I was not scared anymore to fail or scared of the people's hearsays that it is difficult to take the test here. But I proved them wrong. It was easy for me to pass the test. I felt confident and relaxed since my mind was occupied with all the cars around me. It was busier though compared in Arvin but it made me feel more relaxed. I didn't have to check my speed always because I had other cars to remind me. I now realized that I feel comfortable driving with more cars than driving alone the street when having the test. I had only 7 minor mistakes and I felt happy to be on the road so smoothly. Thank God I passed the test at last!</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-49522996176707698752009-04-29T15:45:00.001-07:002009-04-29T22:06:22.554-07:00Behind-the-Wheel Test<div align="justify">I failed my three driving tests (in Arvin, Bakersfield and Arvin again) for I made critical mistakes. So I reapplied last thursday. I got no choice but took the test right away since I was at the DMV already. I passed it before without studying, so I believed that I will pass it again. I have been driving always around town and also the freeways (99, 178, 58). It is a practical test so for those who want to take it and know how to drive already, don't worry much. You'll pass it.<br /><br />For the driving test, I think luck is needed for me. I always met challenges down the road that made me nervous and failed. Don't feel/show any nervousness cos it will really affect u. The instructor told me to get over my nervousness and needed to take the manual test again. I've been driving well with hubby, but it is really different when I am driving with somebody whom I don't know especially if he's checking on me... Well, If u fail, just don't worry.Try and try and you'll learn a lot of things along the way...If you fail, don't ever quit.<br /><br />Don't commit the same 3 mistakes I committed:<br /><br />1. not looking over the shoulder when pulling away from the curb<br />2. driving too slow ( i didn't see the speed limit sign and i was nervous, i remember the video on youtube that if there is no sign, just drive slow>>>I was overfed with information and was too cautious which I knew too well that I should not be)<br />3. too nervous that I wanted to finish the test right away and didn't let the pedestrian pass. I was at the 4-way stop signs. I was too unlucky cos that pedestrian was a lady pushing a stroller. She didn't make any eye contact with me but still she tried to cross. It was too late for me to let her pass cos I went ahead already. It was my fault :(<br /><br />3 tests that I failed that was why I reapplied again. I am hoping to pass the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> time I need my confidence back <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">lol</span> If i fail, then I will gladly take the test again. I hope you guys would learn from my mistakes... I knew about all these but still, during the test, I completely disregarded it... Hubby couldn't believe I failed again! </div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-51360038526152145032009-04-06T20:28:00.001-07:002009-04-14T20:48:06.834-07:00Holy Week Traditions and Beliefs<div align="justify">The Holy week is coming up and if I am in Philippines, I will be observing it well. Usually, we go to church for a vigil on the night when Christ is dead. That is Good Friday. My parents used to tell me to be careful because Christ is dead. If you get hurt like having wounds, it will take a long time to heal. We believed that and we were so behaved and scared. Maybe Mom told us that for us to be good. Cause for the Holy week, we need to reflect ourselves and ask forgiveness. We even forbid ourselves from doing the fun things for Christ is suffering and we need to at least give up something that we love to do for just a few days. Some people will give up meat, games, and delicious food. So when Good Friday comes, we only have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><a href="http://indayskitchen.com/2008/10/tabirakbenignetginataang-bilo-bilo.html">Tabirak</a></span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">benegnet</span> for food, no meat. It is similar to porridge but with sweet potatoes, banana, coconut milk, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">jackfruit</span>, corn flour and sugar. We also stay at home and avoid going anywhere. The streets are so quiet and there are only a few businesses which are opened. When Sunday comes, that is the day that we rejoice because it is the day that Christ has risen. People go to church early in the morning and join the people walking around the city proper with flowers in their hands. The flowers come from the bouquet prepared for Christ's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">rebulto</span> (statue). Only a few can get it so sometimes it creates chaos because they are pushing each other just to get it. They say, the flowers are holy, it can be used to cure diseases if soaked in water and drink it. My Dad used to get some of those flowers and offered it to our altar. We only celebrate that and we don't have Easter Sunday (some do that). Oh I miss it! </div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-12344347783825939902009-04-05T12:17:00.001-07:002009-04-06T20:37:43.986-07:00Fave Eating Spots<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYlsOvwxjazfwrNWJBk8yOu18jTUv7Yrp-fPcjcSAYoihaEs4K84oHD7opW-6i33ewhDfruFiuD1in7rBJXkha_8C-HbxmAuqwS1NRmcVb2aC-btHNtqJSVZiB-gzx0oSiPHPCRbYtpDB/s1600-h/197.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321786624644840610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYlsOvwxjazfwrNWJBk8yOu18jTUv7Yrp-fPcjcSAYoihaEs4K84oHD7opW-6i33ewhDfruFiuD1in7rBJXkha_8C-HbxmAuqwS1NRmcVb2aC-btHNtqJSVZiB-gzx0oSiPHPCRbYtpDB/s320/197.JPG" border="0" /></a> It took me two years to be able to visit my favorite eating spots. A few days ago, my friends and I went to LA, CA just to visit the places that we used to go always in Philippines like Goldilocks, Chow King and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Jollibee</span>. W don't have these here in Bakersfield so when we had the chance to be closer to LA, we went there and enjoyed the food that we missed for so long. LA is almost a 2-hr drive from Bakersfield. We had a trip to Pasadena so we just drove a few more miles just to get to Eagle Rock Mall where these eating spots are located. I felt like I was in Phi. We'll be back again, hopefully soon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgvfDNsjK_zBP_3dNqbfK6TP3lCk6mYe7kLemn27ZPD4fh5USRcCEbZ_fnPnVeg3rrDGCffUhKDe4Xral8IqMwuCeq70_KRueU5mD7rpwUmbk6b4URfvj_Wova1EmYuXWG83t2TqW_LO9/s1600-h/195.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321786561874355650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgvfDNsjK_zBP_3dNqbfK6TP3lCk6mYe7kLemn27ZPD4fh5USRcCEbZ_fnPnVeg3rrDGCffUhKDe4Xral8IqMwuCeq70_KRueU5mD7rpwUmbk6b4URfvj_Wova1EmYuXWG83t2TqW_LO9/s320/195.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdJPSV-sfw9d_D309D9uZcyGINKZw70LdYSWS_XnS9-fWBVH4XfXNJjIkQR50ha72dTFLUoxLW4vO6APYTI6wz05gaAudD6dOyF-zO_wuvBILdih2zssxvVK-G_oUYF1EGlQ-i4sjTE0U/s1600-h/200.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321786500550544994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdJPSV-sfw9d_D309D9uZcyGINKZw70LdYSWS_XnS9-fWBVH4XfXNJjIkQR50ha72dTFLUoxLW4vO6APYTI6wz05gaAudD6dOyF-zO_wuvBILdih2zssxvVK-G_oUYF1EGlQ-i4sjTE0U/s320/200.JPG" border="0" /></a> "<span style="font-size:78%;">Jabe!"</span></div><br /></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-42172776597761551592009-03-29T23:01:00.001-07:002009-03-30T14:36:21.483-07:00The Divas in Concert!<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizswrQ8q66oQw90yPSmbtiTtSQbem7LYcXxiXncr4AyI62W96AYGI60hcq8iTyGFTCP7mV22TLKhvFAbAhRtEu769W73gKPn3rj9pQn7Xtz5ENoi_xEN3rXghxNMsfOb9nMT-ASIRt2s6M/s1600-h/DSC00425.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865759236444626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizswrQ8q66oQw90yPSmbtiTtSQbem7LYcXxiXncr4AyI62W96AYGI60hcq8iTyGFTCP7mV22TLKhvFAbAhRtEu769W73gKPn3rj9pQn7Xtz5ENoi_xEN3rXghxNMsfOb9nMT-ASIRt2s6M/s320/DSC00425.JPG" border="0" /></a> Divas 4 Divas concert was performed by our talented and popular filipino artists namely Pops Fernandez (Concert Queen), Kuh Ledesma (Pop Diva), Zsa-Zsa Padilla (Divine Diva) and Regine Velasquez(Asia's Song Bird). They just had a show last night in Pasadena, CA and I, along with my friends who drove there, enjoyed it. A lot of filipinos came at the Pasadena Civic Center and the tickets were sold out ($58, $68, $78, $125). There were booths outside by the sponsors. We were even taken a picture by the GMA7 booth as if we were promoting GMA7. Their next stop is San Jose for their USA concert tour. So watch for them.</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigheesigQCmvM_Qp_CsMbZS822DnGNP3Vg_GletUR5Lh7FLMJn19Jb-ii4Bhh3bnsxfXZ9jnd42an_Rcr0M-1AmoETVlfNhtNZ7Vak8n0ML_XEm3YgxCZllKiWghKJ7N3I-2wweqaCexEW/s1600-h/DSC00461.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865625398759906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigheesigQCmvM_Qp_CsMbZS822DnGNP3Vg_GletUR5Lh7FLMJn19Jb-ii4Bhh3bnsxfXZ9jnd42an_Rcr0M-1AmoETVlfNhtNZ7Vak8n0ML_XEm3YgxCZllKiWghKJ7N3I-2wweqaCexEW/s320/DSC00461.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDEhZ5U8En2gGJ524xFMhL1Llf7m55_MvviBgiQtuWCRO7BxvVzKMCGwfc-nnTtYNxQ6NZL1zodIJuCkslYoEsR-n2fEaGnfw2aNuhJArq82yx2uwOxThBhqBtbPPsHZCnoiBFTl05eC0/s1600-h/DSC00457.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865521868566434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDEhZ5U8En2gGJ524xFMhL1Llf7m55_MvviBgiQtuWCRO7BxvVzKMCGwfc-nnTtYNxQ6NZL1zodIJuCkslYoEsR-n2fEaGnfw2aNuhJArq82yx2uwOxThBhqBtbPPsHZCnoiBFTl05eC0/s320/DSC00457.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUTPEsXQE1UK_NgtUgaAWxcyePUsrQhkWi8llw3515jXtHVfisuiB-G4jFE6DKbhhXlXOyA3aoy44F6FgeLpZ8IRAw-mnp3YVzElRYok76ZNUyUp1ow63TidZun1aeD5Twhmu-XJ-pKO0/s1600-h/DSC00442.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865431401587170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUTPEsXQE1UK_NgtUgaAWxcyePUsrQhkWi8llw3515jXtHVfisuiB-G4jFE6DKbhhXlXOyA3aoy44F6FgeLpZ8IRAw-mnp3YVzElRYok76ZNUyUp1ow63TidZun1aeD5Twhmu-XJ-pKO0/s320/DSC00442.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAUyva4CFstq-QMyY3LDfT2hlVDWh5dccltO8MSvrWkXf9W3AQSAK7oN82AFYDeMrpnN0IpapdTq-A5j4UMi26OW-ydXccdtT6kvPJgc8UiFojhlwUl_x0NEjXmnGpC1DLhsaTg4hAh1S/s1600-h/DSC00437.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865361567792946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAUyva4CFstq-QMyY3LDfT2hlVDWh5dccltO8MSvrWkXf9W3AQSAK7oN82AFYDeMrpnN0IpapdTq-A5j4UMi26OW-ydXccdtT6kvPJgc8UiFojhlwUl_x0NEjXmnGpC1DLhsaTg4hAh1S/s320/DSC00437.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> Regine singing "And I Love You So"</span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJqsw9vvrBjSpJuT-YqNS_yYkzS3M2lCrH52ikWCc6JO4Ei3mP6EKiVDvs9tKMbFy4H7-mc9as6xKlgr30IfXyL-SchurATTmA-iI-UGKhBcYcFPhWRMHKNvhD4C66txW5qF1NaZuXfsN/s1600-h/DSC00422.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865258143661666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJqsw9vvrBjSpJuT-YqNS_yYkzS3M2lCrH52ikWCc6JO4Ei3mP6EKiVDvs9tKMbFy4H7-mc9as6xKlgr30IfXyL-SchurATTmA-iI-UGKhBcYcFPhWRMHKNvhD4C66txW5qF1NaZuXfsN/s320/DSC00422.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">Opening Number</span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtvpdxuGmQmWqfzzUTAsZUZBGyhjCw7xf-CW3K0uJGgazLhahgCVv1avgV6B6-NEx6c5JBbddqEy8GdhxLMdDXlVLFS6DKzNGEHjLUim0Wpye7wJg4lP9qU4lIe-PqTzqrS0ZTLbATtGu/s1600-h/DSC00462.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318865141272695490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtvpdxuGmQmWqfzzUTAsZUZBGyhjCw7xf-CW3K0uJGgazLhahgCVv1avgV6B6-NEx6c5JBbddqEy8GdhxLMdDXlVLFS6DKzNGEHjLUim0Wpye7wJg4lP9qU4lIe-PqTzqrS0ZTLbATtGu/s320/DSC00462.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> Last Number</span> <div></div></div></div></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-82129945547544512472009-03-17T18:50:00.001-07:002009-03-30T14:34:48.207-07:00St Patrick's Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYRwtl-3fMVI2jg4WpK2iSNV94NyTu41Z42AtusylTY4j0QV3oPkXIAdBdGpoWCguoaOQFfJGQxphs9GDeRXLrUzME5HcbQ5aW7GP43vw2EnE_Zqe23nXKkCfmcgY-EWWLQGzp0SSVVvm/s1600-h/DSC00237.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318855300153797138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYRwtl-3fMVI2jg4WpK2iSNV94NyTu41Z42AtusylTY4j0QV3oPkXIAdBdGpoWCguoaOQFfJGQxphs9GDeRXLrUzME5HcbQ5aW7GP43vw2EnE_Zqe23nXKkCfmcgY-EWWLQGzp0SSVVvm/s320/DSC00237.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">It is pinching day! Wait, did I hear it right? </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">My student just told me this morning that I'll be pinched. I didn't get it at first. Then he explained to me why. I realized that I was not wearing something green and that was the reason that I will get a pinch. Well, they can't do that. Then I took a clover sticker from the drawer and sticked it to my shirt. Here I got green! </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Honestly, I didn't remember anything about pinching on St Patrick's Day. All I knew was that people will wear green and will have fun celebrating it in different places. I noticed that on this day, there are a lot of greens and hopefully, will be lucky to get greens (money) :)</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-39695553905273978112009-03-03T17:32:00.001-08:002009-03-03T20:56:57.665-08:00Driving Test-First Try<div align="justify">At last, I did my driving test yesterday. It took me long to schedule my testing date. I just scheduled it last week and I got lucky to have a closer behind-the-wheel test date. I was not that sure to take the test since I didn't have much time to practice. I only drive mostly in the evening and not every day. Only when I was in the office and when I was with my husband. Still, I encouraged myself to go ahead and take the test. Just like what I suspected, too much confidence will cause me a few mistakes. Unfortunately, I failed my first test. I still have 2 more tries. I took the test in Arvin, CA. I liked it there, fewer cars and not too busy. At that time, there were a lot of students coming out from the school so it was a challenge for me. I thought I did good. I had only a few mistakes but it was critical. She made a comment about not making a signal, checking the mirror and looking over the shoulder when pulling from the curb. I totally lost that I didn't do it. I was a bit nervous, maybe that was why. I was confident at first but nervousness struck me. I thought maybe that was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OK</span> since I was parking on the curb and ready to turn right any moment. But still, it is an SOP to let the people behind and in front of you to know where you are heading and for safety purposes. My bad... Better luck next time then and at least I know where I did wrong and what to do next.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-16274760163007314242009-02-05T16:14:00.001-08:002009-02-15T15:38:28.832-08:00Hail in Bakersfield, CA<p align="center"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_LDl6w3tC8A&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_LDl6w3tC8A&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></p><p align="justify">This is my first hail experience in my 2-yr stay here in Bakersfield, CA. I thought it was snow because that was hubby told me when he called. At that time, it was snowing already in Taft and Derby Acres, a 45-minute drive from Bakersfield. I was so excited when I heard about it because I haven't experienced snow yet. They say that snow comes in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bakersfield</span> once in a decade and it has been 10 years already when it snowed last time. So when hail came, I was amazed. As if someone was throwing stones of ice at me. It was smaller though compared to the bigger ones I saw on videos which are scary. You'll get hurt if you are hit. I touched it and felt it in my hand. It was oily and slippery. Then hubby said, it was because we are in Oildale area :) I guess, he was just kidding.</p>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-905965760809039582009-01-28T20:21:00.000-08:002009-01-28T20:35:49.733-08:00The Feast of Sto Nino de Cebu<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SuXATkEUGhD-GHygkACXwPLmesk9Jxj7MONb2dSTkNrdz7SCeLN0OHV_VP_7vZwk63EJcYcc49fuD4hFbKxAycVvPtQ8XBlH92GtojADstvuggkGvxpRCwe2-awj-jnku0wyQ7-CrxJa/s1600-h/DSC09580.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9NNiSvBcS6ODCpentuHKiI_3NdxEet10LS3hch1Rd4cLMnqS6Z9EsZ1EOYAhErU2B4iw46E5AVC6bKqtWvBAOZj_dqGo8vKAyzDhSSLKWcT8_CZdEurrAcdn5FRxtY5fm2uza-OoKT02/s1600-h/DSC09579.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296566192066989426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9NNiSvBcS6ODCpentuHKiI_3NdxEet10LS3hch1Rd4cLMnqS6Z9EsZ1EOYAhErU2B4iw46E5AVC6bKqtWvBAOZj_dqGo8vKAyzDhSSLKWcT8_CZdEurrAcdn5FRxtY5fm2uza-OoKT02/s320/DSC09579.JPG" border="0" /></a>Philippines has a lot of festivals to celebrate and one of them is the feast of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sto</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Nino</span> which was celebrated last Sunday, January 25. Not all places in Philippines celebrate the saint's day. Only for those places who have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Sto</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Nino</span> as their patron. Cebu is one of the main city that celebrates it. They always have a big feast with street dancing and more. Tourists from all over the world gather there just to witness the celebration and Filipinos as well from different parts of Philippines. In my hometown, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Iligan</span> City, there is a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">barangay</span> that celebrates the feast since <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Sto</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Nino</span> is also the patron. It is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">barangay</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Mahayahay</span> where I grew up and lived. Like Cebu City, we have activities but not as grand as Cebu. Since we are far from our homeland, all my Filipino friends with our husbands gather here to say and offer some prayers, novena and a mass. We always hold it at a friend's house. We always observe important holidays like this wherever we might be. We always remember our home land and its holidays. Viva <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Sto</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Nino</span>!<br /><br /></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-73957935069962311612009-01-20T16:30:00.000-08:002009-01-21T22:10:15.824-08:00Written Test for CA Driver's License<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxZYObvSeFzdXYoT7pOcCus0LlDojWZ-cnZqQQezbvBQW_bvHmMrg1L5HraUpR894slPlSpAQxCKGWsl9b7uQuFJAsc9cpmtlrijHMmtdcJQ91flSXETDLLtMNVfk4h99FCq3ZZ1p2Gbu/s1600-h/Photo_012009_001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293996259548775090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxZYObvSeFzdXYoT7pOcCus0LlDojWZ-cnZqQQezbvBQW_bvHmMrg1L5HraUpR894slPlSpAQxCKGWsl9b7uQuFJAsc9cpmtlrijHMmtdcJQ91flSXETDLLtMNVfk4h99FCq3ZZ1p2Gbu/s320/Photo_012009_001.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">Hubby took a stolen shot of me... he was happy that at last I took the test...</span></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">I was not feeling well but still I need to take my written test at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicle). I have colds and cough since friday and until now but I was feeling better today compared yesterday. I took my medicine on time so I can go to work and take the test today. I have read the Driving Handbook already last October 21, 2008 (the day after my application for the California DL) so I didn't read it again instead, I reviewed the hardcopies of the sample tests before I went to bed. The test that I had today was different from the ones I have studied (as always expected) and I didn't remember reading it from the manual/handbook ( I completely forgotten about it LOL). Luckily, I passed the test with 6 mistakes (too lucky!!! more than 6 mistakes means RETAKE) and I was given a permit to drive (of course with the company of a licensed driver ***My Hubby***). This permit will expire on October this year so I need to schedule a manual test before that date or else, I need to retake the test again. Hopefully, I'll pass the manual test and get a DL ASAP. I badly need it for work. So, wish me luck guys ;)</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-7167087063000114492009-01-13T16:00:00.000-08:002009-04-16T15:59:43.017-07:00Philippine and California Driver's License<div align="justify">I have my Philippine Driver's License when I came here in US. The California Driver's Manual states that a foreign driver's license can be used here in CA as long as it is still valid. The bearer is called a visitor driver. Since I am no longer a visitor, I need to get a CA DL. It is an advantage if you have a license already from your country because you don't have to pay $$$ for the driving lessons. I paid $27 (not sure cos I forgot) for the DL application and just take the written and manuat test anytime. Right now, I am preparing for my written exam. It has been postponed always because I don't have time or just being lazy to set a time for it. But I am planning to get my CA DL this month since I badly need to drive myself to the school, office and home. Hubby doesn't have much time to drive and pick me up. Also, my Phi DL is expiring this March. If ever I get a driver's license this month, it will expire right away this August because my Green Card will expire too. I can renew it right away without having my DL suspended if I apply for a removal of conditions for my green card ahead of time (90 days before the expiration date). In that way, I can have my NOA (Notice of Action) from USCIS that I can submit to DMV in order for me to go on with the DL renewal. This is based on my friend's experience.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">More info at <a href="http://dmv.ca.gov/top_nav/top_nav_pdf_link.htm">DMV.CA.GOV</a></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-88407267517926011512009-01-10T20:40:00.000-08:002009-01-10T20:48:36.483-08:00Influenza "Flu" Shot<div align="justify">Hubby and I had our flu shot yesterday at the County clinic. At last, we took it! We paid only $4 at the public health clinic. We always plan to get the shots but we were both busy that we didn't get it in December. So we just had it yesterday. It seems late but the shot is good for about a year. I have read also that flu season is most common in January and February so we were just in time. I was not really planning to get one for me but since I am working with kids now in school, I need to shield myself from any sickness. Getting sick here in USA is too expensive so prevention is really better than cure. Influenza is a deadly virus so if you can get a shot now, better get it. Anyone can be affected.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-8925820297262571352009-01-02T18:48:00.000-08:002009-01-10T21:02:24.655-08:00A Quiet New Year<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGsQUq2658B0A-unejFkx0fMEs284Y8GGgEMz6f3DPao5SA_aYWumLEVe2dwxsZe1g-LJXwJZ1-rwHfLtvfbrmsc5j-L1xtvP581xwMpNxA2ubaFlZsqdBc_VXKCl820SKPmFUbEm5tbP/s1600-h/DSC09359.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289896562460497490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGsQUq2658B0A-unejFkx0fMEs284Y8GGgEMz6f3DPao5SA_aYWumLEVe2dwxsZe1g-LJXwJZ1-rwHfLtvfbrmsc5j-L1xtvP581xwMpNxA2ubaFlZsqdBc_VXKCl820SKPmFUbEm5tbP/s320/DSC09359.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">Celebrating the new year here is really different from Philippines. I miss the fireworks when midnight strikes, the food and most especially I miss my family and friends. Another new year has come and I missed celebrating it again with my loved ones in Philippines but it is OK. They are always in our thoughts and I am always in their hearts too. Instead, hubby and I went to Trout's bar and celebrated the new year there. We had champagne and we danced all night till midnight (new year). Even if there were no fireworks, the band and the music filled our soul and our horns welcomed the new year too! It was a blast and a fun-filled night with Wade Hayes as the guest singer. No fireworks here but most of the people stayed outside their homes, stayed with families and friends, went to bars and enjoyed the night. The bars were the only places where there was noise but outside, it was really quiet...</div><div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289896796332802146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1uiiDi_KkKZU7pUkoSK0UUMDA3bkCe8xC4e0Dh-JEFTzOq378SHQD-d2oc6YRJS7HklcK0ZZNINJVd_mM3F_pTghYOuDtr7qFYWcR0VyLjzZX3dWnD1n2iV3Dna1ZgJMFszIcSPFXtlt/s320/DSC09393.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">The Trout's Band with Wade Hayes</span></p>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-75466802205097511182008-12-12T12:27:00.001-08:002008-12-12T13:08:12.460-08:00Merry Christmas to All!<p align="center"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TjZqRJLRqak&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TjZqRJLRqak&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Philippine Christmas Song (practice) sang by my Co-teachers during the Faculty Christmas Party</span></p><p align="justify">Christmas here is really different from what I got used to. In Philippines, Christmas starts as early as November. They say that when a month ends with -er, it is Christmas season already. That is why, some people decorate Christmas decors in September but mostly, decorating starts in November. All the schools, homes and other establishments feel the Christmas spirit when decorations are displayed. It is the same here in US, people start to decorate in late November but still I can feel the difference in celebrating Christmas here. Maybe people are too busy with work and we don't have much time visiting our friends here. All my friends are miles away from where I live and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">every one's</span> busy with their own chores. I miss my hometown so much, I miss my family and friends. Especially this Holiday season, friends and family are always together and people share the warmth of Christmas joyfully. </p><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Every 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> of December, people start carolling in our neighborhood but some people start earlier. All the kids will form a group and bring their spoons, forks or tin cans to use as their musical instruments for carolling. I like the cute kids singing the Christmas songs in their own tune and words. A peso will make them happy and they will always sing "Thank you, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ang</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">babait</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ninyo</span>, thank you! (You are so kind, thank You) and run, looking for another house. I remember when I was a kid, my mom had asked me to go to a store and buy something one night. But what I did, before I bought the thing that Mom asked me to buy, I sang a Christmas song first for the store owner and he gave me some coins. He knew me since he was my brother's Godparent and our neighbor. They enjoyed listening to my song and they laughed because after that, I spent the coins he gave me and bought candies from his store. I almost forgot to buy what my Mom asked me. There are kids like me even today. They like a "solo flight" as what we call it for carollers who are alone or on their own. Thinking what I did makes me chuckle. It <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">was</span> a funny experience :) I didn't care before, as long that I have sang my song heartily and I have something in return. When I grew up, I sang with friends, co-teachers and co-club members. We received more from the residents because we gave them a letter informing them why we did the carolling and for what purpose we will use the money. </div><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">The other things that I miss are the fireworks and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Noche</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Buena</span> (Midnight Dinner). When midnight of the 24<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span> comes, parents will wake up their children for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">noche</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">buena</span> and to witness the firecrackers and fireworks display. People are too busy with their own fireworks too that some end up in the hospital. We used to stay up till dusk and spent the whole time chatting and eating. The guys will drink and play with fire crackers. But here, there are no fireworks or firecrackers because these are not allowed for use. Residents are only allowed to play with fireworks every Independence day (June) which is really opposite to Philippines' tradition. I really miss those days... It makes me home-sick. Last Christmas here, hubby and I planned to have a noche buena but he was sick so as what most Americans usually do, we just slept after opening our gifts and heard no sound in our surrounding. But this year, I will try our best to prepare for Noche Buena. I want this year a very merry Christmas for us. I wish a merry Christmas to all of you too!</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-76588897152414114272008-12-09T12:10:00.001-08:002008-12-12T13:08:49.823-08:00State ID and Driver's License<div align="justify">It is easy to get a State ID and a Driver's License but it takes time for the latter. If you have the requirements, then the processing is quicker. For the state ID, your I-94 should be at least 30 days valid (here in California state because each state's policy is different as what I have heard). If it is not valid anymore, you can still apply for a non-driving state ID. You need a Social Security number instead of the I-94 or departure card <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">in order</span> to obtain one. Present it along with your passport.<br /></div><div align="justify">As for the driver's license, a Green Card is required, SS number and a passport. Since I had my Philippine Driver's license, I had applied right away for a CA Driver's license. I just presented my State ID as a requirement for the application along with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">DMV</span> form. After the application, a written test is scheduled then a manual test, meaning, a hands-on driving with the instructor/examiner. I suggest if you get a license if you are still in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Phillipines</span> so it would be cheaper and easier to get a license here. If you don't have yet a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">DL</span> when you apply here, you will be asked to enrol in a driving school which is expensive here (around $300) compared to Philippine fees. Once you are done with the lessons, the same procedure is made to apply a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">DL</span>. You can visit your local <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">DMV</span></span> office for the requirements and more information. You can also check the <a href="http://www.dmv.org/">web</a> online.<br /></div><div align="justify"></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-19656784248820379622008-12-09T11:47:00.000-08:002008-12-09T14:50:35.202-08:00Applying for a Social Security Number<div align="justify">This has been always a raised question and a topic in the forum. Wether to apply SSN before marriage or after marriage upon arrival as K1 entrants. And my answer is always the same. This is my experience.<br /><br />Both have benefits, applying in married name (after marriage within the 90-day period) or applying after two weeks upon arrival in States in maiden name (the name that reflects on the I-94 or the departure card).</div><div align="justify"><br />It's quicker if you apply right away in your maiden name because they can verify right away their records with ur record. So you will have your card and number for about a week or a couple. But you need to go back again for the name change later (Imagine the waiting time and the long line... but it's ok.)<br /><br />On the other hand, If you apply in your married name, you will go to the SSA (Social Security Administration) office once BUT it will take 3 weeks or more to get your card (it depends). Why?<br /><br />Because your name is different now from their records, thus they need to verify the name from the DHS office if the person in the SSA record is the same with the person, now married, in a different name. They will chek if your new surname is the same with the surname of the petitioner...if he's the person who sponsored you to get here. It will take 3 weeks or more (a month or so) for the verification. Your lucky if the verification is quicker then you will have your card after 2 weeks, just like what I've said it depends.<br /><br />After the verification, you need to wait another week for the SSA to prepare your card... So don't worry if it takes longer compared to other applicants. Each of us has a different case... </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Just bring your passport with the I-94 (be sure it is not expired yet or else you need to wait for your Permanant Resident Card or Green Card to get your SS#) and fill up the form at the SSA. For married applicants, bring your passport, married<strong> license</strong> (the one from the Hall of records and not the marriage <em>certificate</em>), form. Visit the <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/">SSA website</a> and check for other new <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10120.html">requirements</a> if there are and the <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.html">application procedures</a>. </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><p align="justify"><br /><br /><strong>QUOTE</strong><br /><em><a href="http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10002.html">How do I get a number and card?</a><br />To apply for a Social Security number and card:<br /><br />Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and<br />Show us original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency proving:<br />U.S. citizenship or immigration status [including Department of Homeland Security (DHS) permission to work in the United States];<br />Age; and<br />Identity.<br />Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.<br /><br />Citizenship or immigration status: We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. consular report of birth, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents include your:<br /><br />Form I-551 (includes machine-readable immigrant visa with your unexpired foreign passport);<br />I-94 with your unexpired foreign passport; or<br />Work permit card from the Department of Homeland Security (I-766 or I-688B).<br />International students must present further documentation. For more information, see International Students And Social Security Numbers (Publication No. 05-10181).<br /><br />Age: You must present your birth certificate if you have it or can easily obtain it. If not, we can consider other documents, such as your passport to prove age.<br /><br />Identity: We can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. An acceptable document must be current (not expired) and show your name, identifying information and preferably a recent photograph. Social Security will ask to see a U.S. driver’s license, state-issued nondriver identification card or U.S. passport as proof of identity. If you do not have the specific documents we ask for, we will ask to see other documents including:<br /><br />Employee ID card;<br />School ID card;<br />Marriage document;<br />Health insurance card (not a Medicare card);<br />U.S. military ID card;<br />Adoption decree; or<br />Life insurance policy.<br />All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. We may use one document for two purposes. For example, we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity. Or, we may use your U.S. birth certificate as proof of age and citizenship. However, you must provide at least two separate documents.<br /><br />We will mail your number and card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents with the issuing offices.</em></p><p align="justify"><em>The process for your children to apply is pretty much the same as it is for you to apply, although you probably need to go with them and may have to also sign some things. </em></p><p align="justify">Below is my timeline:</p><p align="justify">March 30, 2007, I submitted the following documents for SScard (SS office, Bak, CA):<br /><br />-Passport/visa with I-94<br />-marriage license<br />-ssc application form<br /><br />They told me to wait for 3 weeks cos they will send copies of the documents to the Dept of Homeland Security for a name check.<br /><br />April 24, 2007, I received a notice that I will have my SSC within two weeks, if not, I'll just give them a call.<br /><br />It takes a month and few days for you to have your SSC if you apply in your married name. It will take 2 weeks only to wait for the SSC after application if you'll apply in your maiden name...then another papers and weeks for the name change...<br /><br /></p><p align="justify"></p><p align="justify">Related Links:</p><p align="justify"><a href="http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=96287,00.html">TIN</a><br /><a href="http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_2993.html">Non-Immigrant Visa for a Spouse (K3)</a><br /><a href="http://www.ssa.gov/ssnvisa/Handout_11-1.doc">SSA Handout</a></p>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-16962654433148414692008-12-09T11:42:00.000-08:002008-12-09T12:45:53.643-08:00Adjustment of Status<div align="justify">It was August 22 last year when I had my Adjustment of Status interview. My husband was with me and he drove me to Fresno where the USCIS office was. It was also our 5th month of marriage and our interview for AOS application. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">So everything was ready. We packed up all documents and pictures then headed to fresno at 5:30 am. My interview was 8:30 but we arrived @7:30am so we had time to have our breakfast. Also, they won't allow us to get inside the office since it was too early for our schedule or appointment. They didn't want to have a lot of people inside waiting so we strolled for a while after having our breakfast. We entered the building @ 8am and was called @ 8:35 for the interview. The interview was quick. The officer just asked me the same questions I answered on the form I-485. After that, he let me sign and he checked our ID cards. When he came back, he said, my card will be received after 10 days and he reminded us when to apply for I-751 or removal of conditions. That was it, so quick. We just told them that we prepared everything and he just smiled and said " I believe You're being truthful." Hubby and I even kissed in front of him. We were so happy! A nice gift for our monthsarry. We headed to the Fresno Zoo and Yosemite park after. We had a great time!</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><a href="https://egov.uscis.gov/crisgwi/go?action=offices.type&OfficeLocator.office_type=LO">USCIS Service and Office Locator</a></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-4597231988123893652008-12-09T10:50:00.000-08:002009-07-10T16:37:40.062-07:00How To Apply For a Teaching Job in USA?<div align="justify">If you are wondering what to do inorder for you to get a job, you need to know this. This is only good for foreign people who are in USA and have a transcript of records taken from their homeland.<br /><br />The first thing you need to do is have your foreign transcript evaluated for employment in United States. Like in my case, I came from the Philippines which have different educational system so I need my records to be evaluated inorder to be accepted here. The Phil educational system has 6 years in elementary , 4 years in secondary school while the US has 6 years in elementary and 6 years in high school. There are a difference of two years before a student can proceed to college. Also the grades used are different. We have numbers while they have letters. But some colleges in Philippines use letters too like the Xavier University. That is why evaluation of our TOR is important. But wait, you can't go right away to any agency that does evaluation. There are a lot in here. If you are applying as a teacher, you need to go to your school district to inquire first what are the requirements and what to do inorder to get a teaching job or any work that the district offers (clerk, management information specialist, child development center aid etc). They will then instruct you to have your records evaluated by their acceptable/certified agencies that do the evaluation. It depends to the district where they would recommend the applicants to have the evaluation. They have the list of agency where to go. Then do your part. My high school transcript and diploma was accepted by the district here in our county. I had it translated first befor I submitted it. In the equivalency evaluation result that I had, it was stated there that the university I was in was accepted or credited by their system. The school where you studied is important along with the courses too. </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">The results also vary for a different situation. I have a friend who took the certification of educational equivalency for her Phil HS diploma because it was needed for a job she was planning to apply but she was asked to take additional units to obtain the equivalency. She joined the adult school to take classes and received her US HS diploma successfully. So it depends on the school. (If you are looking forward to enroll in college, you can have your High School credits evaluated at World Educational Services.)<br /><br />By the way, I just passed the requirements as a Teacher Aid and started to work. The principal has recommended me to teach in vocational schools or middle schools because my qualifications fit well to be a teacher. I just need to take the licensing exam first. So to those who plan to apply for a job, prepare your transcript of records to be evaluated now. When you have your, SSN, Green Card/ resident permanent card or your EAD (Employment Authorization Documents), you are good to go. Below is an iformation regarding EAD.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />[quote name='MrkGrismer' date='Nov 25 2008, 04:15 PM' post='182279']<br />The law says that a K-1 entrant is authorized to work as part of the K-1 visa. However the K-1 entrant is also required to obtain documentation from USCIS. USCIS considers that documentation to be the Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). However, a K-1 entrant that is working without the EAD is not in violation of the law (the K-1 is, by law, allowed to work). However the employer could be fined for not having the proper documentation on file. Although such a thing seems unlikely to happen as it is not generally worth it for immigration to make an issue of it. "<br /><br />Goodluck to all applicants! </div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-10519667602627884182008-12-03T15:34:00.000-08:002009-01-13T17:28:17.803-08:00Vaccinations for AOS<div align="justify">During my visa <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">process</span>, TD <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">vaccine</span> (tetanus <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">diphtheria</span>) was not available at St. Luke's Medical Clinic yet. That was why when I got here in US, I took my vaccination at a county clinic since it was required for my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">AOS</span> (Adjustment of Status) application too. The form I-693 was requested which has the transcription of my medical record from St Luke's clinic and the vaccination I received here and in Philippines. I also continued the other vaccinations (second doses and so on) I received from Phi such as the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MMR</span>. I believe that the TD <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">vaccine</span> now is offered at St Luke's. That means, a K1 visa holder will no longer take that shot here and will right away look for a CS (Civil Surgeon) for the transcription of the medical record for the form I-693 which is a requirement for the Adjustment of Status after marriage. Within the 90-day period which is given to a fiancee/fiance visa (K1) holder, the petitioner should marry the fiancee/fiance and after that, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">AOS</span> will follow anytime. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">AOS</span> is needed to obtain temporary/permanent US residency. There's no deadline for this but if you can apply right away, the better. Fees are increasing and it might cost more in the coming years.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-22437946267206148572008-11-18T15:20:00.000-08:002008-11-18T16:47:20.622-08:00Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide<div align="justify">This was a post created by Sheriff Uling, a member of the <a href="http://www.visajourney.com/">VisaJourney.com</a> forum, dated May, 2008. Visa Journey is one of the forums that helped us in our visa journey. We really thank the members for the continuous help and guide. Hope this will help others too who are now sarting their visa journey. I would suggest that you sign up a membership (free) at VisaJourney.com to be able to load the other links and see the samples made by the members.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide</span></strong>… (Please read thoroughly)<br /><br /><em>TABLE OF SECTIONS</em><br /><br />SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS<br /><br />SECTION 1<br /><strong>Overview</strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 1.1 </span>Five Stages of the K1 Visa Immigration Process<br /><br />SECTION 2<br /><strong>Introduction </strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 2.1</span> K1 Visa Introduction<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 2.2</span> K2 Visa Derivative Status for Children of K1 Visa Applicants<br />SECTION 3<br /><strong>Post NOA1 (Receipt Notice) Information</strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 3.1</span> Petition Case Status<br />SECTION 4<br /><strong>Post NOA2 (Approval Notice) Information</strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.1</span> NOA2 Expiration Date<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.2</span> The National Visa Center (NVC)<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.3</span> The Manila Embassy (USE)<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.4</span> The Department of State (DOS)<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.5</span> Document Verification<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.6</span> Visa Interview Appointments website<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 4.7</span> St. Luke's Medical Extension Clinic (SLMEC)<br />SECTION 5<br /><strong>Post Visa Approval Information</strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 5.1</span> DELBROS<br />SECTION 6<br /><strong>Post Visa Delivery Information<br /></strong><span style="color:#000099;">Section 6.1</span> Visa and Port of Entry (POE) Package<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 6.2</span> CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar<br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 6.3</span> The I-94 Arrival / Departure Record<br />SECTION 7<br /><br /><strong>Final Notes and Closing</strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Section 7.1</span> Closing Remarks<br />=============================================================<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>SA1:</strong></span> Per the Manila Embassy website [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3023.html">CLICK HERE</a>], <span style="color:#000099;">starting February 1, 2008</span>, the Manila Embassy has imposed a document verification fee. According to their staff, the fee should be paid at least a month before the visa interview. Please review section 4.5 for more details.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SA2:</span></strong> Per the Manila Embassy website, <span style="color:#000099;">as of March 2008</span>, there is an updated Packet 4 [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwfk1en.pdf">ENGLISH</a> / <a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwfk1en.pdf">TAGALOG</a>] for K1/K2 visas (see Section 4.3 for more details).<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>SA3:</strong></span> Per the Manila Embassy website [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3023.html">CLICK HERE</a>], "...<span style="color:#000099;">starting March 10, 2008</span>, there will be an increase in the delivery fee from PhP 135 to PhP 250 per visa packet for Metro Manila and other key cities..."<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SA4:</span></strong> Per the Manila Embassy website (closer to the bottom) [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3219.html">CLICK HERE</a>], <span style="color:#000099;">starting March 14, 2008</span>, those applying for K1, K2, K3 and K4 visas who have been notified by the Embassy to prepare for their interview can call a Visa Information Service operator to schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy.<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 1 - Overview<br /></span></strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">1.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">K1 VISA IMMIGRATION STAGES</span> - A simplified and theoretical overview of the <strong>Five Stages</strong> of the K1 Visa process, according to Sheriff Uling [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=150&p=829476&#entry829476">CLICK HERE</a>].<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 2 - Introduction/Starting Line<br /></span></strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">2.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">K1 Visa INTRODUCTION</span> - Just starting out, then please review the information within post #1 of VJ's General K1 Guides and Info thread [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=300">CLICK HERE</a>].<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">2.2</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">Children Have DERIVATIVE STATUS</span> - The unmarried minor child of a fiancé(e) may receive a derivative K-2 Visa from his/her parent’s fiancé(e) approved I-129F petition. The USC / petitioner must make sure the beneficiary’s child(ren) name(s) is/are on the I-129F petition. The child(ren) may travel with (accompany) the K-1 parent/fiancé(e) or travel later (follow-to-join) within one year from the date of issuance of the K-1 visa to his/her parent. A separate petition is not required if the child(ren) accompany or follow the alien fiancé(e) within one year from the date of issuance of the K-1 visa. If it is longer than one year from the date of visa issuance, a separate immigrant visa petition is required. Remember that in immigration law a child(ren) must be unmarried. <strong>A separate visa fee and medical exam is required for each visa applicant.</strong> The stepparent/stepchild(ren) relationship must be created before the child(ren) reaches the age of 18. After the marriage of the child(ren)’s parent (beneficiary) and the USC, the child(ren) will need a separate form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence in order to Adjust Status from nonimmigrant to permanant resident.<br /><br /><strong>Following-to-join applicants may derive immigration benefits only if:</strong><br /><br /><strong>1)</strong> The spouse or children were acquired before the principal applicant’s admission into the United States; and<br /><br /><strong>2)</strong> The principal applicant gained lawful permanent resident (LPR) status or was issued an immigrant visa under the family-preference or employment-based visa categories or was issued a non-immigrant K or V visa. Foreign nationals who immigrated to the U.S. under an immediate relative (IR) visa category need to file a separate Form I-130 visa petition on behalf of their spouses and children.<br /><br /><strong>3)</strong> The principal applicant has not naturalized. Once the principal applicant becomes a U.S. citizen, a separate visa petition needs to be filed on behalf of the spouse and/or children to qualify for immigration benefits again.<br /><br /><strong>Following-to-join derivative beneficiaries must present documentation establishing the principal applicant’s immigration status in the United States and their relationship to their principal. These include:<br /></strong><br /><strong>1)</strong> A copy of the child’s birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office<br /><br /><strong>2)</strong> A copy of the marriage certificate issued by the National Statistics Office<br /><br /><strong>3)</strong> A copy of the principal alien’s registration receipt card or I-551 or a copy of the principal alien’s passport pages indicating admission to the U.S. as an immigrant<br /><br /><strong>4)</strong> If applicable, Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition<br /><br /><strong>DS Note:</strong> Once the Embassy ascertains the eligibility for following-to-join derivative status, it will provide instructions on how to apply for the visas. To learn more about travel clearance for minors [<a href="http://www.dswd.gov.ph/faqdetails.php?id=47">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx Roy and Yazi). Please also review the follow-to-join information provided by the Manila Embassy (USE) website [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3226.html">CLICK HERE</a>]. The derivative status information is a compilation of information extracted from the Deparment of State website (Section 2.1), the Packet 4 supplied by the Manila Embassy (Section 4.3), and information provided on the Manila Embassy website.<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 3 - Post NOA1 (Receipt Notice) Information<br /></span></strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">3.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">PETITION CASE STATUS</span> - Once the US Citizen (USC) / "petitioner" has filed the petition (I-129F) and received a "receipt number" (listed on the NOA1), please register on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website using the Case Status Online Tool [<a href="https://egov.uscis.gov/cris/jsps/index.jsp">CLICK HERE</a>] to receive emailed updates concerning the status of the petition. NOTE: If you want emailed updates to multiple addresses then you must create multiple customer portfolio accounts. When the petition is approved (NOA2), the USCIS forwards the case files to the NVC normally within 14 - 30 days. The Case Status Online Tool is of no further use to you until after the beneficiary arrives in the United States, get's married, applies for the Adjustment of Status (AOS), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and/or Advance Parole (AP) because this tool does not track the activity being performed at the NVC or the Manila Embassy (USE).<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 4 - Post NOA2 (Approval Notice) Information</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">NOA2 EXPIRATION DATE</span> - Don't be alarmed if the visa interview is scheduled after the NOA2 expiration date because the Consular Officer (CO) at the Manila Embassy will automatically revalidate the petition by extend the expiration date in four months increments until all actions are finalized . No actions by the USC and/or beneficiary are required.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.2</span> <span style="color:#000099;">The NATIONAL VISA CENTER (NVC)</span> number is within my signature. NVC assigns a case number after a preliminary backgroud/name check has cleared, then forwards your case files electronic and via snail mail to the Manila Embassy. This normally takes approximately 14 - 30 days to complete. Have the USC (petitioner) call (the number is within my signature) or email your inquiry to NVCINQUIRY@state.gov (be sure to include the beneficiary's name, date of birth, place of birth, and receipt number). A NVC Processing Letter [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=3918">SAMPLE HERE</a>] (a.k.a. Bureau of Consular Affairs (BCA) letter) may or may not be sent to the USC (petitioner), which indicates the case number and approximate time when the case files will be sent to the Manila Embassy. This complimentary NVC Processing Letter (a.k.a. Bureau of Consular Affairs (BCA) letter) is not required for any stage in the immigration process.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.3</span> The <span style="color:#ff0000;">MANILA EMBASSY (USE)</span> number is <strong>(603) 334-0700 press 1, then 5</strong>... <strong>Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required.</strong> Once the USE has received the hard copy case file from the NVC, the K1 Visa Applicant/beneficiary's case will begin processing. The USE will subsequently send the beneficiary a Confirmation Letter [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=6782">SAMPLE HERE</a>] (Thx dbears) indicating that the hard copy case file has been received and that the visa interview may be scheduled. The USE Confirmation Letter is not Packet 3. <strong>THE USE ONLY ISSUES PACKET 4 WHICH IS NOW ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE.</strong> Please review this instructional visa interview/USE layout information/testimonial [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=4619">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx Sillygirl).<br /><br /><strong>K1/K2 Visa Appication Fee: </strong>The K1/K2 visa application fee may be paid at anytime and the beneficiary has upto a year to attend a visa interview before the receipt becomes invalid. Packet 4 indicates that BPI and Citibank will validate the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) form or the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Application) form. FYI - In the past, only the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Application) form was validated for K1/K2 visas.<br /><br /><strong>Packet 4 (Visa Preparation Instructions and Forms):</strong> The Packet 4 (Fiance(e) (K1/K2) Visa Applicants’ Interview Preparation Instructions) released in March 2008 is <span style="color:#000099;">ONLY</span> available via the Manial Embassy website in [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwfk1en.pdf">ENGLISH</a>] / [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwfk1tg.pdf">TAGALOG</a>], which means that Packet 4 will NOT be mailed to the beneficiary. As indicated by the USE Confirmation Letter, K1 visa applicants are now responsible for scheduling their own visa interview. In addition, the beneficaries are responsible for obtaining Packet 4 and the visa applications online.<br /><br /><strong>Filing Out the Forms:</strong> None of the official K1/K2 visa application forms will not be mailed to the beneficiary, as of March 2008, but may be downloaded from the Department of State (DOS) website [<a href="http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/forms/forms_1342.html">CLICK HERE</a>] which is indicated in the USE Confirmation Letter mailed to the beneficary once the hard copy case files has been received by the USE from the NVC. As of 01 November 2006, the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) MUST be completed online via the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) <a href="http://evisaforms.state.gov/">http://evisaforms.state.gov/</a>, which is sited on the DOS website. Completion of the DS-156K (Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application), the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and the I-134 (Affidavit of Support) can be done via computer (recommended), type-writer (just as good), or handwritten (last resort). To review the K1 Visa Forms (DS-156, DS-156K, DS-157, & I-134) most Frequently Asked Questions [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=150&p=830832&#entry830832">CLICK HERE</a>]. To review the Manila Embassy Thread's recommendations on what to bring (which directly corresponds with Packet 4) and sample questions asked by the Consular Officer during the visa interview [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=420&p=846243&#entry846243">CLICK HERE</a>]. <span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>All applications and/or back-up documentation referenced in Packet 4 should be presented during the visa interview and should NOT be mailed or faxed to the USE unless explicitly instructed to do so by the USE.</em></span><br /><br /><strong>Scheduling the Visa Inerview and Medical Exam:</strong> The visa interview may be scheduled by calling 1-909-101-7878 (from the Philippines at a rate of US$0.98 per minute) or 1-888-877-9888 (from the United States for a toll of $18 for three calls - pin code access provided upon payment). Once the visa interview is scheduled, an official Confirmation Email will be sent [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=6783">SAMPLE HERE</a>] (Thx dbears). Check out Section 4.7, St. Luke's Medical Extension Clinic (SLMEC), on planning/scheduling the medical exam.<br /><br /><strong>Petitioner/Beneficiary Change of Address:</strong> If the petitioner and/or beneficiary has a change of address after the petiton package is sent by the NVC to the USE and before the visa interview, please call the Manila Embassy in order for the new address to be annotated within the case file, and complete the application forms with the new address(es).<br /><br /><strong>Petitioners Attendance at the Visa Interview:</strong> The petitioner is <strong><span style="color:#000099;">NOT</span></strong> required to attend the visa interview with the beneficiary, and will NOT be asked any questions during the visa interview. In fact, some COs request for the petitioner to continue waiting in the lobby. Approximated 90% of the visa interviews are held WITHOUT the attendance of the petitioner, according to VJ member(s).<br /><br /><strong>K1 Visa Pick-up Request:</strong> In order for the beneficiary to pick up the visa versus having it delivered by DELBROS (Section 5.1), make a verbal request to the Consular Officer (CO) at the conclusion of the visa interview. No written request is required. Honestly, the beneficiary has a 50/50 chance of picking up the visa. It also depends on the consular office that handles the case.<br /><br /><strong>K1/K2 Visa Expiration:</strong> The K1/K2 Visa is valid for <span style="color:#000099;">six months</span>, which is good for a one-time entry into the United States. If the beneficiary is unable to depart for the United States immediately and the visa expires, a new one-time entry visa may be issued <span style="color:#000099;">upon written request to the USE</span>, which also requires the <span style="color:#000099;">payment of another application and processing fee.</span><br /><br /><strong>Calling the USE:</strong> The best time to call is between 7:30am – 8:30am Manila time. If the phone rings 4 times, the recording will start indicating that "the person on that extension is on the phone" simply hit the number 0 and it will re-dial the same extension (continue to do this until the phone is answered) (Thx CB). The Immigrant Visa Unit will handle the call even though the K1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa because of the beneficiary's intent to migrate and live permanantly in the United States.<br /><br /><strong>USE Note:</strong> Effective <span style="color:#000099;">01 March 2007</span>, cellphones and other electronic devices will NOT be permitted into the US Embassy and applicants who bring such devices will be DENIED entry, per the Manila Embassy. Be advised that on the visa interview date, the pre-screeners, at times, are very direct, rude, and mean. So do not be discouraged by them.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.4</span> The <span style="color:#ff0000;">DEPARTMENT OF STATE (DOS)</span> number is <strong>(202) 663-1225, press 1, press 0,.</strong> After the petition is approved (NOA2), the USC and/or beneficiary have the option of calling the DOS instead of the Manila Embassy to inquire when the electronic and/or hard copy case files have been sent out and received by the USE that we sent by the NVC. In addition the USC and/or beneficiary may call the DOS instead of the Manila Embassy to inquire when and if the medical exam and visa appointment dates are scheduled, which is very helpful when the Visa Interview Appointments website (Section 4.5) is down.<br /><br /><strong>DOS Note:</strong> The DOS has no direct participation in the K1 process (only access to the computer system to view the status of cases).<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.5</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">DOCUMENT VERIFICATION:</span> For a step-by-step guide to the document verification process, [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=2550&p=1852104&#entry1852104">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx EricC). Per the USE website [<a href="http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3219.html">CLICK HERE</a>], "Applicants whose visa eligibility is dependent upon their marital status (i.e. K-1, K-3, CR-1, IR-1, F-1 and F2-B categories) will normally need to have their documents verified through the National Statistics Office (NSO) before the U.S. Embassy in Manila can issue the visa.<span style="color:#000099;"> Those with a delayed birth or death certificate or only local civil registrar copies of such documents may need to have their documents verified. </span>In order to avoid unnecessary delay in the visa issuance process, the U.S. Embassy in Manila <span style="color:#000099;">strongly encourages</span> applicants in the categories mentioned above to pay the document verification fee prior to their immigrant visa interview. Payment can be made through any Metrobank location. The cost of the document verification is P650 per applicant (with an additional P50 processing fee) [a/o Feb 2008]. For specific instructions on how to pay the document verification fee, please [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=6151">CLICK HERE</a>]. If you are unable to pay for the document verification before your immigrant visa interview, you <span style="color:#000099;">may be</span> asked to pay the fee on the day of your interview. Please note that if you pay on the day of your interview, there will be a delay of one to two weeks in the processing of your application." In order to locate a Metrobank near you [<a href="http://www.metrobank.com.ph/locate_branch.asp?strSearch=MB">CLICK HERE</a>]. After the document verification fee is paid, please text Delbos at (0917) 5555­-313 and key-in as follows [IN ALL CAPS]: USE/CASE NO./LASTNAME, FIRSTNAME MIDDLENAME/BRANCH NAME/DATE OF DEPOSIT/TIME OF DEPOSIT/AMOUNT DEPOSIT<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">For example</span> - <strong>USE/MNL123456789/DELA CRUZ, JUAN PABLO SANTOS/MANDAUE CITY/11NOV2007/11:45AM/PHP1300<br /></strong><br />The beneficiary will receive a confirmation text from Delbros stating, "This is to acknowledge the deposit you made. We confirm your payment to the document verification as required by the US Embassy. Thank you. Delbros delivers!" If the beneficiary texted the format incorrectly, Delbros will send a text message stating, "Incomplete information or Invalid format" in which case the beneficiary is required to re-text Delbros using the correct format. It is further recommended that the beneficiary call Delbros directly at 2-339-2761 to ensure the results of the document verification are sent to the USE prior to the visa interview. In preparation for the visa interview, please bring the original receipt (from Metrobank as back-up) and a copy to give the USE in order to validate the payment of the document verification fee was paid as part of the required documents.<br /><br /><strong>DV Note:</strong> Beneficiaries are NOT required to bring NSO certified documents to Metrobank or Delbros prior to or subsequent payment of the documentation verification fee. Delbros will be checking with the government agencies to make sure what you are submitting is real on the USE's behalf. <span style="color:#000099;">The USE recommends that beneficiaries pay the document verification fee and text Delbros at least a month in advance of the the visa interview, in order to provide enough time for the document verification process (however, document verification may be requested anytime after the NVC assigns a case number).</span>The USE further requests that the beneficiary faxes the document verification receipt received from Metrobank to the USE's Immigrant Visa Unit at (632) 301-2591. When faxing the USE, please be sure to include the beneficiary's full name, mailing address, telephone number, case number, and visa category. If you elected to pay the document verification fee, please, please, please periodically follow-up with the USE and Delbros to ensure the document verication process has been completed before the visa interview.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.6</span> The <span style="color:#ff0000;">VISA INTERVIEW APPOINTMENT WEBSITE <a href="http://203.177.135.10/ivappointment/login.asp">[ CLICK HERE ]</a></span><a href="http://203.177.135.10/ivappointment/login.asp">. </a>While checking the visa appointment date and time via the website, please do NOT press enter after the case number is entered because that will not yield a result. <span style="color:#000099;">Please click on the<em> "Check Appointment</em>" tab.</span> If the appointments have been scheduled, the following will be available: Case Number, Visa Classification, St. Luke's appointment Date, and Embassy Appointment Date, but if the appointments are NOT scheduled yet, the result will be <em>"Case Number Not Found on Appointment List."<br /></em><br /><strong>VIAW Note:</strong> If the Visa Interview Appointments website is down (sometimes the site is down for a few days at a time every month normally for maintenance), the USC and/or beneficiary may call the USE (Section 4.3) or the DOS (Section 4.4) to inquire about the status of the visa appointment. It's very rare, however, there are occassions when the beneficiary's visa appointment is not registered or is incorrect in the database. If so, please follow-up with the USE immediately.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">4.7 </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">ST. LUKE'S MEDICAL EXTENSION CLINIC (SLMEC)</span> [<strong>Phone#: 011-63-2-521-0020</strong>]. The beneficiary and derivative(s) are required to have medical exam(s) and vaccination shots before a visa can be issued (per the US Immigration Laws) and should be taken before the visa interview. <strong>Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required.<br /></strong><br />The medical exam, adminstered by SLMEC, is a two days process:<br /><br />Day 1 is the medical exam whereas the beneficiary's passport will be taken and sent to the USE along with the medical exam results and;<br />Day 2 is the vaccination whereas the beneficiary will be given the x-ray film and the DS-3025 Vaccination Worksheet/Record at the conclusion.<br /><br /><strong>Planning/Scheduling the Medical Exam:</strong> Plan on a three night hotel stay in Manila to accomplish this part of the visa stage. Please review this instructional and layout information [<a href="http://www.raymonddouglas.com/visa/medical.pdf">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx Sillygirl), SLEC's Flowcharts for Day 1 and Day 2 of the Medical Exam [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=4332">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx Rea).<br /><br />Be advised, SLMEC works on a first come first served basis. Therefore, the beneficary may go at anytime to be administered the medical exam. Per the Manila Embassy Thread, we recommend that the beneficiary take the medical exam anywhere from 2 weeks to a month before the interview to ensure the results are available for the Consular Officer and to prepare in the unfortunate event of unfavorable medical results. If the medical exam is taken anytime too far beyond a month before the visa interview, there is a risk that the results could be invalid, which means the beneficiary will have to take another medical exam before the visa can be approved.<br /><br /><strong>What does the beneficiary need to take to the medical exam?</strong> Check out the Manila Embassy Thread's recommendations on what to bring and sample questions asked [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=480&p=852031&#entry852031">CLICK HERE</a>]. Here are the basic required items that the beneficary needs to bring to the medical exam: (1) medical exam fee (payment accepted in pesos only), (2) passport (SLMEC will keep the passport and delivery it to the USE along with the medical exam results, so make a copy of the passport for your records), and (3) three 2x2 passport photos as stated on the DOS website [<a href="http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_1287.html">CLICK HERE</a>] (referenced on page 3 of Packet 4). The beneficiary also needs to have the sponsors contact information (address, phone number, and ssn #) for the SLMEC forms. Please be sure to bring, at the least, the basic required items to the medical exam, but a more complete list is within the link for the Manila Embassy Threads recommendations listed above.<br /><br /><strong>SLMEC Note:</strong> <em><span style="color:#ff0000;">St. Luke's will forward the medical exam results along with the passport to the Manila Embassy in preparation for the visa interview.</span></em><br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 5 - Post Visa Approval Information</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">5.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">DELBROS</span> Website [<a href="http://www.delbros.com/">CLICK HERE</a>]. DELBROS is the company responsible for delivering the beneficiary's Visa and POE information. The DELBROS delivery fee is paid subsequent to the beneficiary's visa interview at the Manila Embassy. Per the Manila Embassy website, the current delivery time is as follows:<br /><br />* Metro Manila Areas, Delivered one (1) to three (3) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier<br />* Provincial Key Cities (ex. Cebu City, Davao City, etc.) Delivered three (3) to five (5) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier<br />* Outside Provincial Key Cities, (ex. Capiz, Leyte, Bukidnon, etc.), Cost depends on area/location, Delivered five (5) to seven (7) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier<br /><br />Per the DELBROS staff, the Manila Embassy can take as <em>much</em> as three (3) business days to release the visa and POE package, which is NOT included in the deliver times above. You may also call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for Delbros, after the visa is approve, to acquire about the status of your visa delivery.<br /><br /><strong>Online Visa Tracking Option:</strong> The DELBROS website (cited within my signature below) offers a shipment tracking option. However, some VJ members attempts did not yeild any results.<br /><br /><strong>K1 Visa Pick-up:</strong> The only way to pick up the approved K1/K2 Visa is by permission of the CO through a verbal request at the conclusion of the visa interview (no written request is required). If the beneficiary has paid the visa delivery fee before leaving the USE, then they must wait for the visa to be delivered.<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 6 - Post Visa Delivery Information<br /></span></strong><br /><span style="color:#000099;">6.1</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">K1 VISA AND PORT OF ENTRY (POE) PACKAGE</span> - The package delivered by DELBROS to the beneficiary is enclosed in clear plastic, for which the visa, CFO instructions (see Section 6.2), and POE package (Brown Envelope) can be seen. The beneficiary may <span style="color:#000099;">OPEN THE CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY.</span> The brown envelope, which has the top left corner cut off, is the POE package that clearly has printed in big bold letters, <strong>"DO NOT OPEN"</strong> in Tagalog and English. And for some strange and peculiar reason, folks open the brown envelope despite the warning stating not to do so. So please do not open the brown envelope or the beneficiary <strong>WILL BE</strong> denied entry upon arriving into the US after the 13 - 18 hour flight. If for some reason the brown envelope is "inadvertantly" opened, please return to the USE ASAP and have them re-package the POE package. <strong>FYI - The visa is posted within one of the pages of the beneficiary’s passport.<br /><br /></strong><span style="color:#000099;">6.2</span> The <span style="color:#ff0000;">COMMISSION OF FILIPINOS OVERSEAS (CFO)</span> - Beneficiaries are required to attend a <span style="color:#ff0000;">GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR</span> that are held in Manila and Cebu, whichever is more convenient, before traveling abroad (the corresponding links within my signature). Please check out this instructional information on the PRISM Guidance and Counceling Seminar experience [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=2763">CLICK HERE</a>] (Thx Sillygirl). <strong>Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required.<br /><br /></strong>The CFO requirement consists of two parts:<br /><br />Part 1, Guidance and Counseling Seminar (a certificate of completion is given at the conclusion); and<br />Part 2, a CFO Sticker placed inside of the passport/visa (requires the Guidance and Counseling Certificate).<br /><br />The beneficiary is NOT required to have the visa in-hand in order to attend the Guidance and Counceling Seminar. However, the Guidance and Counseling Certificate along with the visa are required in order to have the CFO Sticker placed inside the K1 Visa for both the Cebu and Manila CFO locations. If the beneficiary is going to take the Guidance and Counceling Seminar before the visa is in-hand, consider calling the CFO beforehand to avoid any potential problems. In Cebu, the Guidance and Counseling Seminar is adminstered by St. Mary Euphrasia Foundation-Center for Overseas Workers (SMEF-COW) located at 3F Aya-ay Arcade, 60 Mango Avenue, Cebu City (near San Carlos Boys High). Conversely, in Manila, the Guidance and Counseling Seminar is administered at People's Reform Initiative for Social Mobilization Inc. (PRISM). For both the CFO in Cebu located at Causing-Lozada Bldg., Osmeña Blvd. corner M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City (near DFA Cebu) and the CFO in Manila location, the CFO Sticker will be applied to the visa despite the location where the Guidance and Counseling Certificate was issued.<br /><br /><strong>Planning/Scheduling for the Guidance and Counseling Seminar and CFO Visa Stamp: </strong>These services are based upon a first come first served basis. However, there is a schedule for the Guidance and Counseling Seminar (the link is provided within my signature block). There is no schedule for the CFO stamp beyond normal business hours.<br /><br /><strong>CFO NOTE:</strong> The CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is not stated as a requirement within the Packet 4 instructions. However, after the visa is approved, instructions on attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling seminar are included in the visa and Port of Entry (POE) package delivered by DELBROS to the beneficiary. Travel abroad is prohibited without the CFO sticker within the beneficiary's visa (the visa is within the passport, as stated in Section 6.1). Attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is a Philippine government requirement which states, "Per Republic Act 8239 and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Order 28-94, Filipinos proceeding abroad as fiancé(e)s and spouses of foreign nationals are required to attend the CFO's guidance and counseling programs... " For more info [<a href="http://www.cfo.gov.ph/counseling.htm">CLICK HERE</a>].<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">6.3</span> The <span style="color:#ff0000;">I-94 ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE RECORD</span> form instructions [<a href="http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/i-94_instructions/filling_out_i94.xml">CLICK HERE</a>] and for more information please visit the Customs and Border Patrol website [<a href="http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/i-94_instructions/filling_out_i94.xml">CLICK HERE</a>]. Foreigners (beneficiaries) complete the I-94 and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stamps the applicant's visa as well as the arrival / departure portions of the I-94 at the Port of Entry (POE) when entering the United States. The CBP Officer will keep the arrival portion and staple the departure portion of the I-94 to beneficiary's visa where they stamped the arrival date. The beneficiary will need this for the Adjustment of Status stage.<br /><br />=============================================================<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000099;">SECTION 7 - Final Notes and Closing<br /></span></strong><br />7.1 Please...<br />* review the entire guide thoroughly because many basic questions are covered<br />* most sections conclude with additional notes/comments that may be of some relevance to the beneciary's case<br />* check out this list of things to consider in <strong>"Preparation for Adjusting to Life in the United States"</strong> [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=62545&st=2205&p=1301570&#entry1301570">CLICK HERE</a>]<br />* review the signature and story tab of my wife's VJ profile [<a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showuser=32886">Deputy Uling</a>] for information on the Adjustment of Status (AOS) stage<br />* let me know if there are any suggestions/errors/updates. </div><div align="justify">Cheers!!!Sheriff Ulingp.s. A special thanks goes out to VJ and all the members that helped to forge this guide into existence. Hopefully this guide helps... </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">Thanks Sheriff Uling for the <a href="http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=129059">Post</a>.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-29908413239439157552008-11-13T00:59:00.000-08:002008-11-13T01:09:44.994-08:00TD Vaccination: Form I-693<div align="justify">Tetanus <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Diphtheria</span> (TD) vaccine was not available at St. Luke's Clinic before during my medical exam. That was why most of all applicants were advised to take the shot in US when they get here. I had mine at our county clinic instead of getting it at a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">USCIS</span> Civil Surgeon's clinic. It was cheaper ($15) compared to what the CS has asked me when I did my inquiries. It is a smart thing to do to call first and asked about the available vaccine if offered and how much it will cost you to get that. You need also to ask how mush they ask for the transcription of your medical record (from St Luke's Clinic in Manila) to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">USCIS</span> form I-693 which is a requirement for the Adjustment of Status (Permanent Residence) Application. I paid only $20 for that. Others paid a lot. They even had another medical exam because they were asked to do it and they just followed what the CS has told them. You can tell the CS that you only need the TD shot which was required for an applicant to have to complete the I-693 form. I guess, the recent applicants don't need the TD shot anymore since they got it already before they left Philippines. They just have to look for a CS to sign the form. Here's the link: <a href="https://egov.uscis.gov/crisgwi/go?action=offices.type&OfficeLocator.office_type=CIV"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">USCIS</span> Civil Surgeons <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Locator</span></a>.</div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599880570400393445.post-67063558899991740022008-11-13T00:47:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:56:50.777-08:00Shipping Balikbayan Box to Philippines (LBC)<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfx4__eQMU4b2_zdB5QqWCi96T-wBYoqNxHthFg_xlyTfMWSdmPngqQ236bkrPLkRAjrmY5E7_TrPIbcN-KP-rRbE4kuFUWLpSohjFkmthfEcYW_DfAKm6SBO0CZgq8_wgH_fqr3SJC4-E/s1600-h/DSC08265.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268061083205207026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfx4__eQMU4b2_zdB5QqWCi96T-wBYoqNxHthFg_xlyTfMWSdmPngqQ236bkrPLkRAjrmY5E7_TrPIbcN-KP-rRbE4kuFUWLpSohjFkmthfEcYW_DfAKm6SBO0CZgq8_wgH_fqr3SJC4-E/s320/DSC08265.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hubby and I recently sent one LBC box and my family was so happy when they got it. We put a lot of stuff in it and mostly were food. This time around, I put only bags of candies and chocolates and the rest are clothing and shoes. These would be for my family, relatives, god children and friends. It looks smaller but believe me, I packed a lot of clothes (shirts, shorts, slacks, jeans, shoes and a lot more!) As usual, my husband is always amazed with my packaging work. Hopefully, this will be picked up and be shipped tomorrow since the schedule of shipping is every thursday. If you are interested to use LBC in shipping your gifts or stuff to Philippines, you can call their toll free number:</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">within USA: 1-800-338- 5424</div><div align="justify">Hawaii: 1-800-841-1535</div><div align="justify">So. CA: 1-800-575-0650</div><div align="justify">New Jersey: 1-800-522-9507</div><div align="justify">Washington: 1-877-983-9686<br /></div><div align="justify"></div>Felicityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00377843193903697728noreply@blogger.com17