So . . . I've been home for a week.  But it feels like much longer.  And, I'm counting down the days until I go back to Haiti.

As usual, people ask, "How was Haiti?" and as usual, I don't really have an answer.  It's like there's no explanation, no way to explain everything that's in my heart, everything that's on my mind, everything I'm still trying to sort through.

On the one hand, this trip was AMAZING.  For the first time ever, our family spent several days in Haiti . . . just "being" with our friends and co-workers.  It was incredible.

Also, I had the privilege of being with Steeve and Manoucheka again as they welcomed a new addition to their family . . . this time it was Baby Lorie.

Further, we hosted some wonderful people who encouraged us all greatly, including the group from Mission Made Jewelry - the first-of-its-kind trip for Haiti Awake.

On the other hand, this trip ripped my heart up all over again.  I tell myself that after 20 trips I should know "that"/ be able to process "that"/ be numb to "that" . . . and yet "that" can  bring my tears time and time again.

Often, the "thats" are too personal to share publicly, out of respect to our Haitian friends and co-workers.  And often a "that" can't be shared because, unless you've been there, unless you've seen it, unless you have some true idea of what life is like in Haiti, you won't understand why "that" is the way it is, or why it is so hurtful, or why it can't be fixed with a simple solution.

I'm thankful for American friends who, like us,  want to understand Haiti better, who are investing their hearts, their time, their money alongside of us.  I'm thankful for Haitian co-workers who are infinitely patient with our American ways, our impatience, and our lack of understanding on so many issues, Haitian friends who love us as we are and give us so much grace time and time again.