Valentine’s Day often focuses on flowers, chocolates, and romantic gestures. But love can mean so much more. It’s found in the bond between mothers and children, among friends who lift each other up, and in the connection to the land that nurtures us.
This year, I found myself thinking back to when my daughter, Luna Isa, was born. All my kids were born at home, and there was something special about having them enter the world in a place filled with familiar sounds. Luna Isa and her brother, Ekko, were welcomed with open doors and ocean breezes, born gently in water, as if the sea was right by us.
Rhonda, a dear friend and aspiring doula, was there for Luna Isa’s birth. She also became Luna’s nina, a role that goes beyond being a godmother. Ninas provide an extra layer of love and support. The bond between Rhonda and Luna is a beautiful reminder that love grows when shared.
After each birth, we preserved the placenta—an organ that nourished my baby for nine months. Nine months later, we held a small ceremony to plant it, getting the kids involved in the process. Together, we planted an achiote tree to symbolize new life, dancing around it with joy.
The achiote tree, or “lipstick tree,” is known for its vibrant red-orange seeds. These seeds not only provide a natural dye but also produce stunning flowers and pods that look like little hearts hanging from the branches. It’s a lovely reminder of love’s many forms.
When my kids were younger, I organized “Garden Days.” Friends and neighbors would join us to plant, share stories, and enjoy meals together. The kids ran barefoot, while mothers laughed and exchanged wisdom. Rhonda’s daughter, Sam, is the same age as Luna, and those days brought us closer. Food, friendship, and community intertwined beautifully.
In Guam, red rice (hineksa’ aga’ga’) is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished memory. The recipe can vary, as everyone adds their special touch. It starts with soaking achiote seeds in water, oil, and salt, creating a rich, red liquid that the rice absorbs. I often include sautéed onions for extra flavor.
When Luna was three, Rhonda introduced her to using achiote as a dye. Together, they colored a blanket, creating something vibrant and special. Luna loved rolling on it outside. It was a fun, memorable experience that connected her to the earth.
Now, at sixteen, Luna harvested fruit from the tree we planted years ago. The little girl who once played during our garden days is now gathering seeds—a full-circle moment of her story coming to life.
The achiote tree is more than a source of pigment; it holds memories. It symbolizes Luna’s beginnings, Rhonda’s love, and the joy of community. The roots we nourished with Luna’s placenta now support this tree, connecting us all.
On these special moments, I always feel a sense of gratitude. As I wrote in a blog post, “The Earth will give you the strength to grow. The Rain will make your leaves shiny. The Sun will ripen your red fruit. The Blood will give you the spirit of a dancing child.”
This is love—not just the kind we celebrate on Valentine’s Day, but the love of mothers, ninas, and women supporting each other. It’s love planted in the soil, nourishing our traditions and stories, just like the vibrant seeds that color our lives.
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