Playing catch up

Caelyn Rolle

Caelyn Rolle

Caelyn Rolle (2025-2026: San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic) is working with partner organization Mercy Workshop to help women who have been sexually exploited. She is working in a communication and storytelling role to inspire healing and set a strong foundation for Mercy’s fundraising goals, while also equipping women with job skills, education and counseling.
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Hey! It’s been a while. Returning to the DR after a sweet break in Nashville had me deep in my feels. This was my first Christmas in the States and my first time being away from family during the holidays. While that was hard, I’m incredibly grateful to have been reconnected with the family I’ve built for myself in Nashville. Every day, week, minute—every moment—was filled with adventure, good food, and long yap sessions about my experience in the DR.

I didn’t realize how strange it would feel to return for just a short while. Trying to set a routine and find rhythm in a place that doesn’t quite feel like home right now is harder than I expected. No one tells you how, in some ways, you can feel like a stranger—being reintroduced to friends with new jobs, new dreams, and major accomplishments in just five months. Or how possible it is to miss two places at once.

It all feels like a lot, but my love tank has never been fuller. Being able to share the work that means the world to me with the people closest to me has been such a gift. Reflecting on my journey and how far I’ve come made me emotional. I can’t believe my time in San Pedro is almost over. There’s so much more to say, but for now, I’ll hold these memories close—and share a few of my favorites from Christmas break.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11

Spent a few days in Memphis with my best friend and her family. I missed them so much and Memphis is like a second home to me. This picture was taken on Christmas Eve in Ihop!
Spent a few days in Memphis with my best friend and her family. I missed them so much, and Memphis is like a second home to me. This picture was taken on Christmas Eve in IHOP!
I was able to celebrate my anniversary with my boyfriend the day before I had to return to the DR. Super grateful I was able to be present for this milestone. He made me my favorite breakfast foods and we yapped and enjoyed his delicious cooking.
I was able to celebrate my anniversary with my boyfriend the day before I had to return to the DR. Super grateful I was able to be present for this milestone. He made me my favorite breakfast foods, and we yapped and enjoyed his delicious cooking.
Vision board night with my besties to welcome in the new year. We talked about the goals we accomplished in 2025 and what we are hoping to achieve in 2026. It was nice being able to think through my future in the safety of community and also encourage and affirm their dreams.
Vision board night with my besties to welcome in the new year. We talked about the goals we accomplished in 2025 and what we are hoping to achieve in 2026. It was nice to think through my future in the safety of community and also encouraging and affirming their dreams.
Driving around to see Christmas lights is always so exciting for me. I did not grow up in a house that decorated with lights so I always feel so connected to my younger self when I go and see homes decked out in lights. The effort and creativity placed into some of the homes leave me in awe. This home is a prime example
Driving around to see Christmas lights is always so exciting for me. I did not grow up in a house that was decorated with lights, so I always feel so connected to my younger self when I go and see homes decked out in lights. The effort and creativity placed into some of the homes leave me in awe. This home is a prime example
I had a brunch with my male best friend at First Watch. First Watch is typically my go to for all things breakfast. I do have an obssession.
I had a brunch with my male best friend at First Watch. First Watch is typically my go-to for all things breakfast. I do have an obsession.
I met my DR roommate's family! They visited Nashville during the break and we went to lunch at Raising Cane's. Sydney has been my rock in the DR, she has been so supportive, helpful and kind with me adjusting to a new country. It was so nice to meet her fam as I am now an honorary Gosdin.
I met my DR roommate’s family! They visited Nashville during the break, and we went to lunch at Raising Cane’s. Sydney has been my rock in the DR. She has been so supportive, helpful, and kind with me adjusting to a new country. It was so nice to meet her fam, as I am now an honorary Gosdin.
I tried In - N - Out Burger for the first time. There was not much of crowd not that it had been open for a few weeks. I thought the food was alright. I have had better burgers.
I tried In – N – Out Burger for the first time. There was not much of a crowd, not that it had been open for a few weeks. I thought the food was alright. I have had better burgers.
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