I realized this morning IT’S FRIDAY! And we are overdue for a five on friday post now that the holidays, the contests, and the wedding week are behind us. So I couldn’t bring myself to do any other five post other than haiti. Because everything else seemed so silly and trivial in comparison.

I’ve made myself not watch CNN and not get wrapped up in this because I’m the type that takes things overboard (who, me!) and would be planning to catch a flight down there. I did mention to Brad that I was sure there was some Haitian babies that needed us but, no dice. yet. But in the midst of it all, I still want to honor what is going on and do a small part to give back, even if I can’t be on the ground there helping in person.

So that is what our five is today. Five ways to give back and impact a country and people in dire need of it. But before you even give back, pray. Pray for the people, those hurt and impacted by this and for those on the ground helping and administering aid. That in itself is worth more than anything.

1: So, CNN was banned but Don Miller got me! He posted this video about World Vision and I knew I had to watch. To wrap my heart around it and, even though I can’t be there or do too much, I can do something.

2: A blog I have been reading of some missionaries that live in Haiti and were there when this happened: http://ourlifeinhaiti.blogspot.com/ give you a great insight and non-media look into the devastation. Plus it gives you some specific prayer requests.

3: Oh, social media. You have changed our lives forever. When I really stop and think of how far we have come in the past even 5 years, its kind of scary, but good. Raising money via texting, tweeting and retweeting about it, posting on your facebook ways to help. This is such an awesome new phenomenon! So I’m sure you have heard about it but Text 90999 with the word “Haiti” as your message and you’ll instantly donate $10 to the American Red Cross. Plus you can post this on your facebook and/or twitter too to spread the word!

4: Love 89 has set up way to donate to Compassion on their website. Super easy and 100% trustworthy that your money is being used for good. I have had the privilege to see a Compassion project in action in Ecuador and work hand in hand with the kids and families they are impacting and it is one of the most influential things I have ever witnessed in the world! This organization is changing lives no doubt about it and the awesome thing is, you can to!

5: Another awesome way to give back and get a little something amazing from Etsy:) Go to Hearts for Haiti to buy a donated item. 100% of the money will go to Doctors without Borders. Super cute stuff on there that is screaming to be an awesome Valentine’s Day gift!