Mom's Letter 1 to Caleb (dearelder.com)

Missionary Name: Elder Caleb Gibbons Mission: Provo MTC Date Submitted: December 7

Ok Caleb, here it goes. I still haven't figured out how I'll write my weekly letter so I'll be experimenting with the different sources that are out there. This letter is obviously through the "dearelder" site that you and Dr. Jeremy Ellis recommended so we'll see how you like receiving them this way. ;) I am so thrilled to hear that you like the MTC. Everyone was so excited to read your first letter! Sariah has practiced writing letters to you on lots of pieces of paper, unfinished and scattered throughout the house. We all miss you! Sydney said it right...there is a huge VOID in this house and it is your missing presence! I think even the dogs feel it. Baxter comes into the house on his own several times a day now, looking for some attention but I believe he's looking for you because it was always YOU who gave them so much love & treats. On Friday, I was getting ready in my bathroom and I felt someone coming around the corner and it was HIM! I have faith in your abilities as a missionary, Caleb, especially after watching you walk away to begin your next big step with so much confidence and even after reading your letter. I'm sorry that you saw me so sad at your departure but I truly am happy and excited for you and the experiences that await you. I'm also excited for all those that you come in contact with, even the other sisters, elders and instructors in the MTC. You have such a contagious smile and personality that causes people to want to be around you. I wish for everyone to know you! I am so, so, so proud of you and feel soooo lucky to be called your mom! I love and miss you lots! Mom