Last year my family and I traveled across the ocean and moved to America. 

At first it was scary because I didn't know anyone. The foods, smells, and noises were all new to me. Everything felt so strange from the home I left in the Philippines. 

On my first day of school, I was really nervous. Would I find my way around? Would I make new friends? 

What would others think of me? Since, English is the language mostly spoken in America, I was grateful that I was able to understand and speak it well with others right away. 1

 1. Gallardo & Batalova, 2020.

I was amazed at seeing all the foods that are available in America. Instead of buying fresh fruits and vegetables from street vendors or at a barangay, we now buy most of our food from a grocery store. 2  Many of the foods come pre-packaged. Thankfully, rice is easy to find here, because that is one of my favorite foods! 3 Cows milk is very popular in America, but since our stomachs get upset easily, we try to drink coconut or soy milk instead. 4

2. Paska, 2011.

3. Kittler et al, 382. 

4. Kittler et al, 383.

On the weekends, when my family is together, we make one of our favorites dishes like chicken adobo with fresh vegetables and rice. 4 In America, they eat with a fork, spoon, and a knife. Using a knife took me some time to get used to. 5 After dinner, if I'm lucky, my mom will even let me have a special American treat, like a Coca-Cola or ice cream!

4. Kittler et al, 382 & 383.

5. Rosemary, 2011.

Shortly after we arrived, I was surprised that my family and I were able to find a place of worship. In America, Catholic Churches are common, just like in the Philippines. 5 The beautiful thing about our Catholic faith is that no matter where we worship, the service and liturgy stay the same. Being at church is a place I feel comforted and full of peace. 

5.Kittler et al, 374.

Even though I was worried what life in America would be like, I am grateful to be here. My family and I have been given the chance to start over, without the worry of war.

America is full of new opportunities, new beginnings, and each morning, a new horizon. America is my new home and I am happy to be here.