Talofa!​

 

My name is Rasela Mamona, and I was born and raised in the beautiful islands of American Samoa, where the sun shines brightly, the ocean breeze whispers tales of ancient legends, and the spirit of community thrives. I am a proud mother of two beautiful children: Amalijah, who is 12 years old, and Aarya, who is 8.

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Amalijah is the quiet and calm soul of the duo, with a deep love for music that transcends words. His creative mind and serene nature make him a source of peace and inspiration for all who know him. He can often be found immersed in melodies, his fingers gently strumming a guitar or his voice softly humming a tune. Aarya, on the other hand, is energetic and lively, her spirit as bright as the tropical flowers that adorn our island home. She is a devoted dog lover, and her passion for animals is as boundless as her enthusiasm for softball and baseball. Aarya brings energy and excitement to every moment, her infectious laughter filling our home with joy. Sometimes, she can talk your ears off, sharing stories of her adventures on the field or her dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Together, both my babies make life truly worth living, their unique personalities complementing each other in a way that fills my heart with pride and gratitude. And let's not forget Tootsie, my fur baby, who is the ultimate big teddy bear and the heart of our family. Tootsie has made it her mission to love everyone she meets, her wagging tail and gentle nudges a constant reminder of the unconditional love that animals bring to our lives.

 

Seven years ago, I married my best friend, and since then, our marriage has been a journey of growth, laughter, and unwavering teamwork. We have faced life's challenges hand-in-hand, our bond growing stronger with each passing year. In 2013, I made the life-changing decision to move to Utah, leaving behind the familiar shores of my homeland for the snow-capped mountains and bustling cities of the mainland. This move was born out of hope—a hope for a better future for my family and especially for my disabled son, whose needs required access to specialized care and resources that were not readily available in American Samoa.

 

As a family, we celebrate the simple joys of life, finding happiness in our love for nature, embarking on outdoor adventures that take us from hiking through scenic trails to camping under starlit skies. We cherish movie nights curled up on the couch, the aroma of popcorn filling the air, and the sound of laughter echoing through the room. We enjoy the friendly competition of bowling, the thrill of belting out our favorite tunes at karaoke, and the excitement of discovering hidden treasures while shopping. We cheer on our favorite teams at softball games, our voices blending with the crowd as we celebrate every hit and home run. And above all, we cherish the warmth of family gatherings and dinners, where stories are shared, laughter rings out, and bonds are strengthened.

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I am passionate about helping others, my heart overflowing with compassion for those in need. As a host home provider, I open my home to those who require support, offering them a safe and nurturing environment where they can feel valued and respected. My experiences caring for my late disabled sister during my younger days instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Later, raising my own children, including my son with special needs, further enriched my understanding of life, graciously teaching me lessons of resilience, empathy, and the true meaning of family. Every chapter of my life reflects my unwavering commitment to nurturing and sharing a safe, loving space with everyone I encounter. I firmly believe that by opening our homes and hearts, we make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time. Supporting others is not merely a job; it is a privilege and a purpose close to my heart, and I am committed to making even a small difference in the lives I touch. It's a way to serve, grow, and honor the dignity of others, recognizing that every individual deserves to be treated with compassion and respect. Every day, I'm reminded of the value of human connection and feel blessed to be part of someone's journey, walking alongside them as they navigate life's challenges and celebrate its triumphs.