My First P-Day

5-9-11

So this morning at 6:30 am we got a call from a sister asking us to come down to the hospital.  So anyways, the woman who we blessed was pregnant and she was in labor.  She was only 4 months along.  We blessed her and then they wanted us to leave, so we ended up going to the library to e-mail.  Then we went to the store (Wal-Mart), then came home and we cleaned the whole apartment!  It was a big mess from the last elders.  I am glad that I know how to take care of myself.  And at the end of the day we found out that the baby didn't make it.  It was sad. 

I am doing very good.  It is extremely hot and humid here.  Lots of red necks and BBQ's.

Dag Gummit!  (This is what everyone says)

Me and my Trainer, Elder Rushdi.

Letter from the Mission President

04 May 2011
Dear Brother and Sister Poulson,

A few days ago, Sister Hutchings and I were pleased to meet your son, Elder Caleb Sherman Poulson, at the airport and welcome him to Nashville.  We have been anticipating his arrival for many weeks and it was wonderful to finally meet him.  We spent two days together and had the opportunity to visit privately in the mission home.  During these two days, Elder Poulson had dinner with us at the mission home, participated in initial training and a testimony meeting.  He has been assigned to his first companion and trainer Elder Rushdi.  They will be laboring in the Hermitage area.

Missionary work is challenging in the Tennessee Nashville Mission, but our missionaries find great rewards in serving the Lord here.  Elder Poulson will learn much about himself, the gospel and our Savior as he puts all his heart and strength into his work.  Your letters of encouragement will be a great blessing to him.  I am also urging Elder Poulson to write you weekly so that you will know of his well being and experiences he will be having.

We know that as he works with all his heart, might, mind, and strength he will have a profound missionary experience.  Sister Hutchings and I are honored to stand beside these tremendous young people in this sacred calling.  Thank you for your sacrifice and service.  We pray the Lord will continue to bless your family and keep you in His watchful care.

Sincerely,
Gary L. Hutchings, President
Tennessee Nashville Mission

Arrived in Tennessee!

5-4-11   7:51am

So I'm in Tennessee now, it is so beautiful here.  The humidity is not bad, and the people are almost the same as Utah.  But everyone has their own opinion on who God is and stuff so it's kinda funny.
So anyways, my trainers name is District Leader Rushdi.  He is so cool and I am going to learn a lot from him.  I am in the Nashville Stake and the Mount Juliet ward.  It is a way cool place the whole area is nice, nice streets and stuff.
So there are some massive churches down here.  One church close by is a catholic church and you could fit 5 of our stake centers in it.  I will tell you more in the next letter.
Love, E Poulson

The apartment I'm living in:

First Letter

Dear Mom and Dad,

Good day, good day.  All is well here.  It is fun, too.  It's only been two days and I am already the district leader!  And my companion is pretty sweet, Elder Whittington.  He's from Pleasant View, Utah.  He is so cool.  I am losing weight fast.  My hair is falling out, and I am not sleeping.  Anyways, the feeling here is the same as the temple.

On the Way to the MTC

Seth and Caleb.

Walking out of the house, and ready to head to the MTC!

With Mom and Dad

In the car, with Seth and Brittany.

Getting a hair cut by Heather before leaving to the MTC.

Meeting up with Heath's family for lunch before going to the MTC.

Caleb and baby Anistynn.

Some of the gang.

The whole gang.

Caleb with Heather, Tim and Asher.

At the MTC, saying goodbye to Mom.

At the MTC, saying goodbye to Heather.

At the MTC, saying goodbye to Seth.