Meet Olivia

The unintended expat blogger behind Light Hill Studio

Olivia Parker - Founder of Light Hill Studio Photo: Light Hill Studio

Hello, I am Olivia

I work as a project manager, a parent, and an expat based in New York, United States.

A few years back I moved here with my family, and what began as a short-term assignment gradually became a new chapter of my life abroad.

How It Began

Moving to United States wasn't part of the long-range plan. Like many expat relocations, it started as a work opportunity and quickly grew into something much larger.

The first months were intense — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.

City skyline in New York, United States
Life in New York has its surprises. Photo: Light Hill Studio

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.

Why I Built Light Hill Studio

Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.

This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in United States.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site is:

  • Real-world experience from living in United States
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever something actually changes

This site is not:

  • A tourism authority resource
  • Promoted-review platform
  • A generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in United States continues, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue recording what we uncover.

If you have questions about family life in New York or anywhere in United States, please feel free to contact me.

Best regards,

Olivia

New York, United States