Catey's Christmas Call Home - 12/25/2009

Dear Family and Friends,

Today was such a blessing to finally be able to get to speak to Sister Cathryn Stroud. While we know that Catey is where she is suppose to be, it is not easy to go 6 months without speaking to her.  We truly feel blessed this day to hear her voice and listen to her share her excitement about the people in her mission.  We are so grateful for her, especially today, as we know she is sharing the message of the Gospel and her Savior, Jesus Christ. 

It was interesting to me (her mother) to watch her father speak to her.  Only minutes before, he lacked color in his face (he hasn't been feeling well) but as soon as he spoke to his daughter, color returned to his face and his eyes had a sparkle in them.  Catey's mission is something that she has in common with her dad.  I think he is able to relive some of his missionary experiences, as he listens to her share her experiences.

Sister Stroud was able to talk to her grandparents, her brother - Preston, and Scott a family friend.  She was also able to spend Christmas day (most of it) with her brother James, his wife DeAnn, and DeAnn's kind family.  We are so thankful to them for having the missionaries over.

Sister Stroud did share with us that she was in a car accident on Tuesday.  The roads were icy and their car went into a ditch.  Even though Catey is pretty obedient, she was not wearing her seat belt.  When asked why, she replied, "I usually always drive and wear my seatbelt, but I was in the back seat and didn't have it on."  Her mother and father, along with Sister Sonne, her mission president's wife, are not to happy with her decision to not have her seat belt on.  Because of that she injured her shoulder - it has approximately 100 tears in it.  She is having to take some muscle relaxers and pain pills. We are hoping and praying that Catey will be able to finish her mission and ask that you keep her in your prayers.

Catey is loving her mission; she loves the people she teaches and those she works with on a daily basis.  She is so grateful to her family and friends who have played a part in her life and who continue to pray for her.  As her parents, we too want to thank you for all of your love and support.  We hope your holidays are wonderful and that you especially remember the Savior at this time of year.

Love,

Randy and Cathy Stroud.

Catey's weekly email 12-8-09 - 0 degrees in Utah

Dear Family,

Your email made me cry as usual..:) Man, I am such a crybaby.  You will see when you come to my departing testimony.  I will bawl like you would not believe.

By the way, um... can you drive up here instead of flying?  I... um... am going to have a few more bags than I came up with...:)  I have gotten some pretty sweet things from different countries that members/investigators/companions have given me... Thanks. :)

So, let's see... To answer your questions:

Yes, I am reading the scriptures (on the gifts) before I open them.  I have loved every single one of them.  It was really funny, because just the other day, Sister Yamashita and I were like "Man, we need some mugs to make hot chocolate..." Lo and behold, mugs!!!! :) It's the little things in life that make us missionaries extremely happy.  Of cocurse, the book "The Last Straw" made me cry as I thought of all of the amazing memories that I have had growing up.  (Just in case you didn't know, I cry every time I write out an email... Yes, I am crying right now.) :) I hope that someday after I get married and have kids (someday in th FAR fufture), (Mother's note: I hope not too far, I want to see all my children married and lots of grandchildren while I still have my eyesight). :) my kids will be able to have good memories like I have.  I know that they will have good memories of their extended family (especially their grandparents). :)

Haha...Yes, patience is a very hard trait to develop.  You know how I am... :) It's been tough, but I think that I'm getting the hang of it.

I was hoping that Dad would see the email (the last email she wrote) and not let you (her mom) read that part.  Yes, I still get headaches.  I think it's just due to lack of sleep, and trying to adjust to the 3 degree weather.  Literally, it has been 3 degrees.  It even got down to 0 degrees Sunday morning (Tooele is colder than Salt Lake).  A lot of missionaries have been having trouble sleeping, and when they go to the doctor, they just give them sleeping pills, which I don't wat to mess with... :) So, I think that I will just pray... :)

I haven't started counting down to my birthday, although I did celebrate my 1/2 birthday with myself. :)  I am counting down the days till I get to talk to you on the phone. Maybe I'll get a voice recorder and record my voice for Little Princess Codie.  Of course, I will teach her piano lessons. Yeah, so I'm chopping off my hair today, again.  We have zone conference on Friday (we will be seeing Sister Sonne), and since my hair grows like a weed, Sister Yamashita and I are going right after this to get it chopped off. :)

I can't wait to see a picture of my baby girl. :) (Mothers Note: Codie, who is Preston's daughter - her oldest brother)

Yeah, the mission minimum of lessons that you have to teach a week is 20. My first transfer we really struggled to get that many lessons.  Last transfer, I decided something had to change.  It has gradually increased and now we sometimes have to give up some of our P-Day just so we can teach everyone. It has been amazing to see the Lord's hand in the work as we do our part and work like CR-AZY...

The members here are awesome!  Last week, we received 16 referrals.  It was pretty awesome.  Don't worry, they are feeding us... a lot. :)  My last 2 transfers before I come home, I am not going to eat at all.  Otherwise, I will come home .... chunky. :)  We have already gotten a few invitations for Christmas dinner.  They are really good about taking care of us....

Daily Dose program??? That's so sweet! We have Daily Dose missionaries in our mission.  No, I don't teach in Spanish. (I asked President Sonne if he would switch me to Spanish speaking, and he said, "No, I don't want to take a good missionary and change them to Spanish speaking/" (Mother's note:  We think that President Sonne didn't want to take Catey from teaching to learning lessons in Spanish - we know without a doubt that he loves and appreciates both Spanish speaking missionaries and those who speak only Spanish). But, we do run into a lot of Spanish speaking people, and it really helps to be able to commnicate with them.  That is why I am working on learning Spanish... I'm definitely learning.  I can understand it pretty well, and I read it really well, but I struggle speaking it... Hopefully, when I get home, we will be able to speak to each other in Spanish. :)

I am trying to write in my journal as often as possible.  Sometimes, it is hard to find time, but I'm working on that... I can't wait for ou to read it!

Hopefully, that answers all of your questions. :)

So let's see, the work  is going really good. It snowed a lot the last few days, so I am trying to learn how to drive in the snow. It has been quite scary, especially driving on the Interstate, but I am learning ...:)

Well lastly I just wanted to tell you... thank you so much for sharing your missionary experiences and testimonies with me.  It always helps me be strengthened.  (I don't know if that's proper English.  Sorry, my English gets worse and worse.) :)  I love you all so much!  Again, I cannot express my gratitude for you all.  I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who has blessed us with so much.  You are so right; we have so much to be thankful for.  I am so grateful for the Savior, Jesus Christ.  I constantly strive to be the best I can be, but I stumble a lot along the way.  I am so grateful that I have a way to overome those stumbling blocks.  It is only though the Savior's Atonement that we can overcome these and be strengthened.  I know that this is the true Church, that it is because Heavenly Father loves us that He restored His Church on the Earth today.  He wants us to b happy and it is through the gospel of Jesus Christ that we can accomplish this.  I pray that each one of us will be able to remember the Savior this time of the year.  Heavenly Father's most precious gift that He could give us is His Son's life.  That is what this time of the year is all about... In the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Again, thank you so much for everything!  I really do appreciate it.  Hugs and kisses to all of you.

Love,

Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 12-3-09 - Thanksgiving with the Law Family

FAMILY!!!

How is everyone doing?  I just want you to know that I miss you tons!

First of all, I wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for the Christmas presents.  You really didn't need to get me that many presents.  I seriously would have just been happy with a Christmas card.  I want you to know how much I appreciate everything you do for me.  I will be sending a thank you letter that is more personal, but I wanted ou to know that I got the packages and that I am so grateful for them.  My companion also says thank you.  It's hard not to open them all right now. :) One of the biggest Christlike attributes that I am working on and learning, on my mission is patience. :)  This is definitely helping me develop this particular Christlike attribute... Thank you so much, Words really can't express my gratitude.  At times, I don't feel worthy to have such an amazing family, but I hope that I can make you proud as I serve the Lord with everything that I have... (Her entire family is always proud of her)

Yes, I do leave all the negative experiences out of my emails.  I always try to stay positive.  Sometimes it's hard, but one thing I've learned on my mission is that sometimes those negative experences, if handled with faith, hope and optimism, become some of the most amazing experiences of my life.  They have built my faith, and have helped me learn to rely on the Lord.  I know that these experiences will help me be a better person, and someday a better wife and mother.  And hopefully, they will make me a better daughter.  I know that I haven't always been the most fun person to be around, but I can see that my mission is changing that.  I'm still learning, but I think that I'm starting to realize what it takes to be more Christlike.  I know that we are going to have a lot of fun when I get off my mission, because I can even see that I am becoming a different person, a better person.  It has been a rough process but it has been worth every second of it.  I know that I will continue to learn and grow...

By the way... I'm not trunky AT ALL (seeing as I still have 13 months left), BUT I just want to see if you can start planning to come up January 2011, because we have a huge departing testimony meeting for all the missionaries leaving and I really want you to be there... So... Could you maybe start plannning for that??? Thanks. :)

Anyways, I'm glad that your Thanksgiving was good.  Ours was really good.  It was really hard to be away from you all, but we had a lot of fun with the Law family.  They are so amazing  So, you heard I got to see DeAnn, James and Princess Codie? (Mother's note: DeAnn was saying hello to her siblings through computer technology when Catey was at her house) Yeah, I was like, "Who is that baby DeAnn is holding?" And then it dawned on me, "Oh my goodness, that is CODIE!!!!"  She got to hear my voice for the first time.  She is soooo stinkin cute, and chunky.  I can't wait to meet her.  Oh, are you going to have her for Christmas?  I was just wondering if I was going to get to talk to her.  It was really good to see DeAnn and James... I hope I get to see you all in a few months.  Hint, hint. :)

Oh, I almost forgot... Transfers were yesterday.  My companion and I are staying together in Tooele! We are really excited... We had 3 baptisms last Saturday, and spoke in 2 different sacraments on Sunday.  It was a crazy weekend.  The work has been amazing.  I'm excited to tell you all of the amazing experiences that I have had on my mission...

By the way, Dad I spent like $9.00 today at Wal-Mart for medical purposes.  I have been getting really bad migraines, so I bought some Advil Migraine.  I think I might just be trying to adjust to the cold (this morning when we went to zone study at 7:50 a.m., it was 15 degrees).  I think it's probably that along with stress... But I just wanted you to know.  Don't tell Mom, I don't want her to worry. :) (Mother's note again: Yeah right, like I am not going to worry!!! Also, does she not think I read her emails - what a silly missionary).

Anyways, I think that's pretty much it.  I can't believe it's almost Chritmas.  Time flies!!! Tell everyone I said hi and that I love them.  I pray for you all every day.  I will write you a letter this week.

I am so proud of everyone.  It seems like everyone is doing really good.  I am so excited to see the progress that everyone is making, and I can't wait to sit in the temple with my family.  I know that this is what Heavenly Father wants for us.  That is why I'm on a mission, to help others be with their framilies forever, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I know that this is where Heavenly Father needs me. I know that He is proud of you all as you strive to come closer to Him.  I can feel the love that He has for each one of you, His children.  Don't ever forget that you are a child of God and that your whole purpose on this earth is to be able to become like He is and to return to live with Him again.  In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.

I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU!

Love,

Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 11-25-09 - Taught 40 lessons in one week

Dear Family!!!!

HAPPPPPYYYYY THANKSGIVING to EVERYONE!!!  So, I am soooo sorry I am not able to email/write all of you.  Lately we have been giving up part of our P-day, because we are soooo busy.  Last week, we taught 40 lessons... in one week, plus spoke in sacrament, are planning 3 baptisms for this Saturday (at which I get to speak), and we get the privilege of speaking in 2 sacraments on Sunday.  (As I am typing this for Catey, I am tired just thinking about her schedule :)). I know this shouldn't be an excuse.  I am trying to be better so please forgive me and please be patient with me.  Also, know that I am thinking about each one of you.  I am grateful for your support.  I LOVE reading your emails and letters.  I feel so much gratitude for each one of you and your support.  I hope you all have an AMAZING THANKSGIVING!!!

So... I haven't gotten the H1N1 vaccine.  I'm not really too fond of needles right now, seeing as the last 2 times I went to the doctor they have poked and prodded me with needles the size of Texas. :) I probably should get it though... It's time to conquer my fears, one fear at a time. :)

We are really excited to spend Thanksgiving with the Law family (Mother's Note: Her brother, James' in-laws).  I just love them.  I am so grateful for them.  I think it will make being away from you all a little easier.  We are not allowed to proselyte at all tomorrow, so we are going to spend a good chunk of our day with them and then we are going to go visit members and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving. :) (Another mother's note: The entire Stroud clan is so grateful for the Law family.  Even though we missed Catey immensly, we had a feeling of peace knowing she was with family).

I'm sorry to hear that you all have been sick. :( It's definitely not fun.  Thank you SO much for working on my Christmas package.  So.... Guess what??? Transfers are NEXT Wednesday.  Insane, right?  Yeah, so this Monday, the 30th, will be the last mail day of the transfer.  My companion and I are hoping that we will stay together.  We feel like we still have a lot of work to do here.  She (my companion) got her Christmas package this last Monday.  Her parents got me this really cool coin purse from Japan.  I thought it was so cool that they got me something, so I know that she will REALLY appreciate that you guys got her something.  THANK YOU for doing that. :)  We really appreciate it.

I hope you ALL know that I appreciate all of your support and prayers.  I hope you have a VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING. Please tell everyone that I love and miss them and am VERY grateful for them.  Give everyone a hug for me.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRESTON!!!  I hope you got your birthday card.  I was trying to figure out how old you are.  Yeah... um... 27, right??? HOLY CRUD, you're old yo!  Just kidding.  I hope you have an amazing birthday.  Give your daughter lots and lots of kisses for me.  I just can't stop staring at her picture.  She is SO stinkin cute... Just like her Aunty Sister Stroud. :) Haha.  I crack myself up. :)

Dad, I am so glad that you are having those (missionary) experiences.  I love when members come to lessons with us.  It really helps our investigators.  I know that you have some amazing experiences to share.  Mom, I know you will be an AMAZING grandmother to my future children.  After all, your are an AMAZING mother.  (Mother's note: Catey was so easy to raise - she gives her parents way too much credit).

Y tambien to quiero decir que te amo, feliz dia de gracias. (From Elder Schleske)

I know that this is the true chcurch of Jesus Christ on the earth today.  I pray that we will all think of the many blessings that we have, and thank our Father in Heaven for everything we have.  I thank our Heavenly Father for each one of you.  I know that our Savior lives and loves each one of us.  I am so grateful for His Atoning sacrifice for us.  I know that it is only through Him that we will be able to live as eternal families with our Father in Heaven. In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Oh, and P.S. I will TALK to you 1 month from today!!!! :)

I LOVE YOU ALL, Please don't forget that!

I really hope this made sense.  I am sooooo tired and a little "discombabulated." I am not exactly sure what that word means, but that's what I feel like. :) Missionary life is CR-AZY, but I LOVE it!!!! :)

Love,
Sister Stroud

Mother's Note - December, 2009

Dear Family and Friends,

To all of you who follow Catey's blog we want to thank you and let you know that she is doing great.  She loves missionary life - I am not sure she will ever want to come home.  We appreciate your prayers in behalf of Catey and our family.  We also appreciate all of your love and support.  We hope you have a Merry Christmas and remember our Lord and Savior at this time of year.

Love,

The Stroud Family

12/01/09

Just so everyone who reads this knows.... Catey was allowed to go 

and have Thanksgiving dinner with my family, and I got on Video Chat 

with my family on Thanksgiving. I wanted to see everyone and talk to

them all (because I miss home a lot) and Catey was in the room when I said 

hi to everyone. Her companion and she waved and said hi to us. I wasn't 

trying to break the rules I just miss home and it was a plus that Catey was there. 

Mother's Note: DeAnn is like Catey they are very obedient and I love them both so much.

FAMILY!!!
 
How is everyone doing? I just want you to know that I miss you tons!
 
First of all, I wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for the Christmas

presents. You really didn't need to get me that many presents. 

I seriously would have just been happy with a Christmas card. 

I want you to know how much I appreciate everything you do for me. 

I will be sending a thank you letter that is more personal, but I 

wanted you to know that I got the packages and that I am so grateful

for them. My companion also says thank you. It's hard not to open 

them all right now. ;) One of the biggest Christlike attributes that 

I am working on, and learning, on my mission is patience. :) This is 

definitely helping me develop this particular Christlike attribute...

Thank you so much. Words really can't express my gratitude. At times,

I don't feel worthy to have such an amazing family, but I hope that I

can make you proud as I serve the Lord with everything that I have...
 
Yes, I do leave all of the negative experiences out of my emails. 

I always try to stay positive. Sometimes it's hard, but one thing 

I've learned on my mission is that sometimes those negative experiences,

if handled with faith, hope and optimism, become some of the most 

amazing experiences of my life. They have built my faith, and have 

helped me learn to rely on the Lord. I know that these experiences 

will help me be a better person, and someday a better wife and mother. 

And hopefully, they will make me a better daughter. I know that I haven't 

always been the most fun person to be around, but I can see that my mission

is changing that. I'm still learning, but I think that I'm starting to realize

what it takes to be more Christlike. I know that we are going to have a

lot of fun when I get off my mission, because I can even see that I am 

becoming a different person, a better person. It has been a rough process

but it has been worth every second of it. I know that I will continue to

learn and grow...
 
By the way... I'm not trunky AT ALL (seeing as I still have 13 months left),

BUT I just want to see if you can start planning to come up January 2011, 

because we have a huge departing testimony meeting for all the missionaries

leaving and I really want you to be there... So... Could you maybe start

planning for that??? Thanks. ;)
 
Anyways, I'm glad that your Thanksgiving was good. Ours was really good.

It was really hard to be away from you all, but we had a lot of fun with

the Law family. They are so amazing! So, you heard I got to see DeAnn, 

James and Princess Codie? Yeah, I was like "Who is that baby DeAnn is holding?" 

And then it dawned on me "Oh my goodness, that is CODIE!!!" She got to 

hear my voice for the first time. She is soooo stinking cute, and chunky.

I can't wait to meet her. Oh, are you going to have her for Christmas? 

I was just wondering if I was going to get to talk to her... Speaking of,

I will let you know soon what time I will call you on Christmas. I'm 

assuming I'm calling Dad's cell: 480-272-4148, right??? If that's right,

I can't believe I still have that memorized. ;) It was really good to

see DeAnn and James... I hope I get to see you all in a few months. 

Hint hint. ;)
 
Oh, I almost forgot... Transfers were yesterday. My companion and I are

staying together in Tooele! We are really excited... We had 3 baptisms

last Saturday, and spoke in 2 different sacraments on Sunday. It was a

crazy weekend. The work has been amazing. I'm excited to tell you all of

the amazing experiences that I have had on my mission...
 
By the way, Dad I spent like $9.00 today at Wal-Mart for medical purposes. 

I have been getting really bad migraines, so I bought some Advil Migraine. 

I think I might just be trying to adjust to the cold (this morning when we

went to zone study at 7:50 am, it was 15 degrees). I think it's probably 

that along with stress... But I just wanted you to know. Don't tell mom. 

I don't want her to worry. ;)
 
Anyways, I think that's pretty much it. I can't believe it's 

almost Christmas. Time flies!!! Tell everyone I said hi and that

I love them. I pray for you all every day. I will write you a 

letter this week.
 
I am so proud of everyone. It seems like everyone is doing really 

good. I am so excited to see the progress that everyone is making,

and I can't wait to sit in the temple with my family. I know that

this is what Heavenly Father wants for us. That is why I'm on a

mission, is to help others be with their families forever, through

the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that this is where Heavenly 

Father needs me. I know that He is proud of you all as you strive

to come closer to Him. I can feel the love that He has for each 

one of you, His children. Don't ever forget that you are a child 

of God and that your whole purpose on this earth is to be able to

become like He is and to return to live with Him again. In the name

of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.
 
I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU!
 
Love,
Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 11-17-09 - Catey off of death bed :)

Dear FAMILYYYYY!!!!!!

First of all, I just want everyone to know.... that I am ALIVE and OFF of my death bed.  I am completely recovered, off that nasty steroid crudola, and am almost done with my antibiotics, HALLELUJAH!!!  Now... Let's just pray I stay that way, because I do NOT like being sick.  So, now I am back to my spunky, CR-AZY self (completely obedient, mature missionary crazy of course).  :)

So... about Christmas. I seriousy have everything that I need.  And I don't NEED anything for Christmas.  In fact, I don't really WANT anything for Cchristmas.  I have your love and that is all I need.  HOWEVER, since I know you soooo well, and know that you will probably get me something regardless of whether or not I need/want something.... DO NOT feel like you have to get me anything.  A letter with a picture of Codie would make me the happiest person in the world. :)  So, what I have really been wanting is a set of Spanish scriptures with "Hermana Cathryn E. Stroud" printed on them.  I don't know if they have them in blue with silver  pages.  The burgandy with gold pages are really pretty too.  That is just what I would WANT if I could have anything. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DO not spend a lot of money.  I don't know how much they cost and I DO NOT want you to spend a lot of money on me.  I know that money is really tight right now, and I would be so content with anything.  That is just what I would get if I could get anything. :)

So, I bet you that Destanie (note from mom Stroud - this a family Catey taught) would LOVE to hear from you. In fact, PLEASE email her. They are the most AMAZING family.  She is the one that gave me my flu shot.  I haven't had a chance to email her back yet, because I only get so long to email, but I will email her next week.  Will you tell her that? Thank you!!!

I have to admit that I did start crying when I got your email.  I miss you all so much.  This will be my first big holiday away from my family (other than my birthday this past year).  I'm not gonna lie... I'm thinking it might be a little hard, but I know that I am where I'm supposed to be.  I was so psyched when DeAnn's (Catey's sister-in-law) mom called and invited me to Thanksgiving.  I think that it will make it easier to spend it with people I know well.  Plus, BreAnn (DeAnn's twin sister) is a lot like DeAnn, so I will get close to a "DeAnn fix." :)  It would be so wicked awesome if James and DeAnn were there, but I know it's kind of far away. :)  But, Sister Yamashita and I are really excited to go to their house.  They are so sweet to have us over, and I am so glad that I have good friends/pretty-much-family close by.

So, I'm sorry to hear about Aunt Kay (she is losing her job).  I will be praying for her.  Dad, I'm sorry to hear that your bids didn't go through, but I know that you will find a job soon.  You are such a hard-worker.  You are definitely an example to me.  Mom, I know that you are an amazing teacher.  (After all, you did teach me and look how I turned out. :) Jk  (I'll work on that humility). :)  I am sooo jealous that you get to be with Codie so much.  I can't believe how much I already love that little girl and I haven't even met her.  Don't worry... She will be nice and spoiled to me in about 13 - 14 months (oh yeah, ps... they might make me go home December 23, 2010, instead of January 26, 2011.  They are doing that this year with the missionaries that are suposed to go home in January.  Just so you know). Anyways, she will LOVE her Aunt Sister Stroud.  :)  I am glad to hear that Preston is doing well.  I bet he is such an amazing dad.  I know that both of my brothers will be awesome dads because they are such amazing brothers, and we have such amazing parents.  So... about that, are... um...James and Deann getting close to that yet? Just wondering If I need to be expecting any more nieces ore nephews.  Can you please let them know that I would much appreciate it if they held off for about 5 - 6 months, that way I can be there when he/she is born?  Thanks a heap. :)

So... now about the work.  We are definitely seeing many miracles happen in our area.  We are working hard and I am EXHAUSTED, which is precisely how I like it.  The hand of the Lord is truly here in our area.  We have three baptisms coming up on Novemeber 28th, which has really been a miracle.  We are really excited.  I love teaching the gospel and feeling the Spirit so strong on a daily basis.  My testimony has grown so much.  It has been amazing to see this growth.  I LOVE this work.  I am so happy to be here serving the Lord.  This truly is His marvelous work.

Oh, so we ran into Sue, Aunt Marci and Aunt Marie's sister.  She is in one of the wards that we cover. She is sooo sweet, and her family is just adorable!

I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the true chcurch of our Heavenly Father.  I know that Jesus Christ lives and that He loves us.  He wants us to be happy.  One thing that I have seen in my life lately is that as I have been actively and prayerfully working on becoming more like the Savior. I have come to know Him more, and my testimony of His Atoning sacrifice has been strengthened.  I know that this is because I am striving to live according to His will and His teachings.  I am by no means close to perfect, but I am trying and striving for that, and because of His Atonement and through repentance, He strengthens me and helps me to become the person that I want to be and that He KNOWS I can be.  I know that this applies to each one of us.  As we strive to live our lives in line with His teachings, we become more like the Savior and we know Him, and are happy because of that knowledge.  I love Him so much and am so grateful for Him.  I am so grateful for His church.  I am grateful for parents, grandparents, brothers, a sister-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who taught me how to be a better person.  Because of you, and because of our Savior, I am who I am today.  Thank you so much for everything you have done for me.  I LOVE you ALL.  I know these things are true, without any doubt in my heart.  In the name of our Beloved Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.

With all of my love,

Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 11/10/09 - Spider bite Story

FAMILY!!!!

Thank you so much for your emails! They always make me tear up.  Have I ever told you all that I LOVE YOU?!  Because I do... so much.  I always enjoy reading your testimonies.  They definitely strengthen mine.

It is so good to hear that everyone is doing well.  Please give everyone a hug and kiss for me.  PLEASE know that I am praying for you all.  Dad, good luck with those bids.  Just know that Heavenly Father is in this.  His will will be done.  Just have faith and keep praying.  Mom, good luck with those 3rd graders.  I admire you for your patience.  That is the biggest thing that I have had to work on in my mission.  It definitely isn't easy.  I bet Preston is the best dad.  I always knew he would make a great father.  After all, he is an AMAZING brother.  Keep working on the "Auntie Catey" with Codie. :) Haha.  I'm so glad that James and Deann are doing so well.  I hope they know that they are in my prayers. I am so grateful for their amazing examples.  I am so glad that Grandpa and Grandma are doing well.  Give them a hug and a kiss for me.  Also, tell Auntie Kay Kay and my cutie pie cousins that I love them. :) I miss you ALL tons, and am so grateful for such an AMAZING family.

So... This week has been crazy! We taught 35 lessons last week and are EXHAUSTED!!! Which is a good thing. :) We currently have about 20 investigators, and are prayerfully trying to get them to progress (to come to church).  It has been crazy, but I can definitely see the Lord's hand in His work here. When we first got here, we only had like 6 investigators, so the work is coming along. :)  We had interviews with President Sonne this week and he told me that I looked exhausted, which is true. :) And which is GOOD.  I would be worried if I weren't exhausted! :) So... I had to go to the doctor's AGAIN this week.  Here is the story: 

Spider Bite Story

The other day I had this little red dot right above my lip, on the right side where my top lip meets my bottom lip.  I didn't really think anything about it, but the next morning, I woke up and my lip was SO swollen, hard, red and sore, inside and outside.  I couldn't smile, eat, talk or anything.  I was pretty miserable.  Well that morning was the morning of interviews.  So when Sister Sonne saw me, she was pretty worried.  She called Mission Medical and they told her that I needed to see the doctor.  So, being the obedient missionary that I am :), my companion and I headed on over to the doctor.  The doctor told me that it was a spider bite that got infected.  Apparently my body didn't handle it like it should of.  So, he prescribed me some steroid medicine to make the swelling go down and the pain to go away.  The steroid medicine makes me REALLY nauseous, which makes it hard to sleep at night.  And it makes me really emotional. But, my zone leaders came over the night I went to the doctor and gave me a blessing, which helped tremendously.  So now, I just have a red, hard bump on by lip, but it doesn't hurt anymore, and I can SMILE!!! :)  My companion and I now have an inside joke that I got kissed by the spider, since the bite is right above my lip.  We find it pretty humorous...Haha.  The things that entertain us missionaries.

Anyways, the work is amazing, and sick or not, I LOVE being a missionary and serving the Lord.  I have a very strong testimony of this Church.  I am so grateful for the Lord, and His mercy.  I am not by any means a perfect missionary or person (in fact, I am so far from being perfect), but I know that because of

Christ's suffering, I can repent and be cleansed and purified, and feel of the joy that comes from doing so.  I am so grateful to be His servant and to give a MINISCULE of what He did for me back to Him.  I LOVE Him so much. I pray that we will all do everyting we can to bring JOY to this Christmas season.  Here's my thought this week:  The word "JOY" is an acronym for... READY???

   J - Jesus

      O - Others

Y - You

I know that as we make Christ the center of our lives and serve others, we will have so much joy in our lives.  I have seen that first-hand as I serve a mission.

I LOVE you all so much.  Thank you for ALL of your amazing support.

Love,

Sister Stroud

P.S. Last transfer, my companion and I taught this family.  After many years of meeting with missionaries, the father (Tyson) and the son (Tyler) were baptized.  They are now preparing to be sealed in the temple in a year.  The following is an email that I received from Destanie (the mom) today.  I loved this family...

Hey Sister Stroud,

I know that I should of emailed you a few weeks ago, but we have been so busy with surgery's and what not.  You know how our life goes!  I really miss you coming over and giving Tyson and I a hard time.  Tyler and Wendy sure miss you coming over too... The other sisters have stopped by a couple of times since you left, but it just isn't the same without you.. I do hope that you are liking where you got transferred to.  I hope you and your new companion are doing well and liking each other.  I know that sometimes it can be hard.  Tyson is still doing good on his non-smoking life.  It has been about 6 weeks or so since he had one.  He says its hard somedays but he likes being smoke free.

I don't ever want to loose contact with you.  You changed our lives so much in just the short time we got to have you here.  I feel a close bond with you and the teachings you taught my husband and son.  We went through several missionaries to finally get Tyson and Tyler to commit to getting baptized.   I know that Tyson said it was you that made him really want to finally stop smoking and finally commit.  I just want you to understand the kind of person you are to of helped my family get closer to God and the temple.  Thank you!  Your family should be so proud of you and what you are doing, and how many peoples' lives you have helped change for the better.

I miss you tons, but I know that God had a purpose for you to ge elsewhere.  Someone else needs your teachings like we did.  And I know that you are doing what one day maybe Tyson and I will be able to do when it is time.

Love you tons,

Destanie

Catey's weekly email 11-3-09 - Gratitude

FAMILY!!!

Since it is the first P-Day in November, and I have SOOOO much to be grateful for, this email will be dedicated solely to thanking you all.

Well first, I just want to let you know that I am... WELL. I am still trying to get over a little cough, and my back is sore from coughing so much, but I am soooo much better. Thank you for your prayers. I wrote letters today, and got pictures printed, so I will send them out in the mail tomorrow. Did that $100.00 from Uncle Jim and Uncle Gary go into my account? I just want to make sure that I got that right. I wrote them a letter thanking them today. Also, will you let me know in your next email to me how much is in there? Thank you!!!

Ok... so I have had so many AMAZING spiritual experiences these last few weeks that I have carefully recorded in my journal so you will get to read them in about 14 1/2 months. :) The work is going great! We have seen so many miracles in our area. The Lord is truly guiding His work here. We are staying soooo busy, and are just LOVING it!

But now, for what I really wanted to talk about. I got your package on Monday (oh... by the way, mail days are on Monday now), and I just started crying. Apparently, the emotional-ness wasn't just from being sick. ;) I was just so filled with gratitude. I got down on my knees that night and just thanked Heavenly Father for soooo much support and love. I pleaded with Him that He would bless each and everyone of you. It's not just the package, it's the love that I feel from all of you. Sometimes, that is what keeps me going. It's like you guys know EXACTLY what I need. The zucchini bread was delicious. It is almost gone. I can't stop eating it. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL OF IT, the cute little bear, the medicine, the zucchini bread, the lotion, the facial care (which by the way, I LOVE - it makes my face feel so good and it works REALLY well), the soap, and all the rest of it!!! I wrote grandma and grandpa a letter, but will you give them a HUGE hug and kiss for me??? Let them know that I smell DELICIOUS! :) I am so grateful for all of the letters, packages and prayers. I am so grateful to my Father in Heaven for the most amazing family ever, and for such amazing friends. I know that I haven't always been the most amazing daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, sister-in-law or friend, but I hope you all know how much I love you. I am so sorry if I have ever done anything that has hurt you in any way. That certainly wasn't my intention. Please forgive me, and please know that I love you. Thank you so much for everything you ALL have done for me, even if it was just a simple smile. Sometimes, those simple smiles were what kept me going in life. You have all taken a part in making me who I am today. I wouldn't be on a mission if it weren't for all of your love and support. I don't think that I can adequately describe the gratitude that I feel. Even as I write this email, I get tears in my eyes, because I feel the love that our Father in Heaven has for each and every one of you, and it is an overwhelming feeling. He loves us more than we can ever comprehend. I have felt a small portion of the love that He has for His children as I teach them the restored gospel of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Ghost. I am SOOOO grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ, who made it possible for us to live with Him again, as families. I am so grateful for the Book of Mormon, and the great peace that I feel as I read and ponder the message that it contains. I testify that it truly is the Word of God. I am so grateful for temples, and for the opportunity that we have to go there and feel of God's love and peace, and to be sealed as families for time and all eternity. This is one of God's greatest gifts to us, His children. I pray that we will NEVER take this gift for granted.

I love the month of November. I pray that we will ALWAYS remember the amazing blessing that our Father in Heaven has given us. I humbly and strongly encourage all of you to take at least 15 minutes sometime this month to think of all the blessings that He has given you, and then to pray and sincerely thank Him for these most abundant blessings. I know that as you sincerely do this, you will see a change in your life. You will come closer to the Savior, and you will feel His love for you and for His children. I know that this change can come, because I have seen it happen in my own life these last few weeks. I know that I have SO much to be grateful for. I am so grateful for each one of you. Words cannot even describe it. I love you all so much. I pray for you all the time. I say these things as a humble servant of the Lord, Jesus Christ, in His sacred name, Amen.

With all of my love,

Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 10-20-09 - Testimony tried

Daddy/Family!!! 

(Mother's note: What is up with Daddy? Seriously? What about Mommy - she must want something)

Wow, you made me cry! :) I am very emotional right now... I have a sinus infection, but am doing great other than the sniffles, and crying at EVERYTHING.  It will go away soon... hopefully. :) I really enjoyed reading your testimony. It always strengthens mine.  I had an interesting, and really amazing experience last week.  I won't go into all the details.  It's a really long story.  You will be able to read all about it in my journal when I come home in 15 months.  Anyways, this is the jist of it...

Catey's Experience

We ran into an anti-mormon and stopped to talk to him.  I felt the adversary VERY strongly trying to get me to doubt my testimony, and, to a certain extent, it worked.  Our zone leaders came over that night and gave me an amazing blessing, and talked to me about some stuff and helped me to realize how strong my testimony really is.  And then, one of my companions and I were talking and we had an amazing experience.  I finally realized some things, including how much the adversary is working on me.  But, then I realized how much stronger the Atonement of our Savior is, because I know that no matter what happens, no matter how much Satan tries to get me to doubt, I don't ever have to fear, because I KNOW of the truthfulness and power of the Atoning sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for me.  I fell to my knees right then and there and thanked my Father in Heaven for the experiences that have helped me strengthen my testimony and for the Spirit that testifies to me of the truthfulness of His gospel.  This experience, with so many others that I have experienced on my mission, have seriously changed my life and my view of the world.  It is amazing to see how much I grow daily as I work hard to invite others to come unto Christ.

Anyways, so let's see. I did get transferred.  My companion and I are "white washing" in this area (they took both missonaries out and put two new ones, my companion and I in).  I did this in my last area as well.  So, now I am in Tooele, Utah.  My companion and I cover the Tooele East Stake, and right now the Spanish branch (the Elders will be taking the branch, seeing as I can't quite teach the lessons in Spanish...) My companion is Sister Yamashita.  She is from Japan, and she also doesn't drive.  But at least this transfer we got a Toyota Corolla. :)  She is WAY awesome, and I am really excited for this transfer, although I REALLY miss my old area.

We did have a baptism last week.  It was really awesome.  I was asked me to speak on baptism, so I did.  Also, a lady in my last area that I taught was baptized on Saturday, and I played the piano at her baptism.  Then, we spoke in church on Sunday.  I think I'm finally starting to get over my fear of speaking/playing the piano in public, since I do it ALL the time. Several people came up to me after we gave our talks and told me that I had a deep knowledge off the gospel, and that my talk was really powerful.  I don't even remember what I said. :) All I remember is that is was on "Coming unto Christ."

I hope everything is going well with you.  I have been praying that you will find a job soon... I have been praying for everyone else, including my grandparents.  I miss you all so much.

I'm so glad that you are meeting with the missionaries.  It is such an amazing experience. It's crazy how we're the ones teaching the gospel and yet I learn more from the people I teach and from my companions than they learn from me. :) 

I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH. Please always remember that.  Please know that this IS the true church of Jesus Christ on the earth today.  Our Heavenly Father loves us more than we will ever know.  I want to add my testimony to the one that Elder Holland bore this last general conference... I want it to be VERY clear when I stand before the judgement seat that I declared to the world, with everything I have, that the Book of Mormon is true.  I KNOW, without any doubt in my heart, that the Book of Mormon is true.  I have read it and prayed about it, and through the Holy Ghost, our Father in Heaven has made it know to me.  I find so much peace when I read it, and I promise you that if you want to strengthen your relationship with the Savior, and if you want to find peace in your life, you can do so by "feasting upon the words of Christ."  I am so grateful for the knowledge that I have that we can be together as a family after this life.  I pray that each one of us will live our lives so that we will be worthy to return to live with our Heavenly Father and our Savior...TOGETHER FOREVER.  This is my prayer.  I LOVE you.  Heavenly Father loves you.  We are truly His children.  In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Once again, thank you for all of your support.  I am filled with an undescribable amount of gratitude.  I couldn't do this without you... I promise you that Heavenly Father will bless all of you for your support and prayers of His servants.  Please remember that you are ALL in my prayers.  And please pray for me and my companion, that we will be able to find those who are prepared to hear the gospel.  Thank you again.

With all of my love,

Sister Stroud :)

Catey's weekly email 10-14-09 - Talks at Baptism

FAMILY!!!!! 
So this week has been great!  We have transfers a week from today... I REALLY don't like transfers... at all! :)  Haha.  I just absolutely love my area right now, and don't want to leave.

We have a baptism tomorrow. He asked me to give a talk on baptism. Then, on Saturday, in my last area, this really amazing lady is getting baptized that I 
taught, so I get to go to that baptism as well. She asked me to play the piano. Then, next Saturday, we have another baptism. On Sunday, we are giving talks in sacrament. Did I mention that missionary work is BUSY (and that's an 
understatement)?! It has been amazing to see the Lord's hand in the work. We 
have truly seen miracles as we work diligently doing the Lord's work. It's 
amazing... We barely have time to eat lunch and dinner (we teach A LOT of 
lessons - yesterday we taught 7) and I am completely exhausted, physically and 
mentally... but the amazing part is that I don't even realize that I'm exhausted 
until I get home at night and we start to plan. After planning, I change, brush 
my teeth, wash my face, pray (personal and companion) and literally fall into my 
bed and I'm out.  
 
Ok, so to answer your questions... Yes, I have my medicine. About that, I hate 
to ask this but can you put $50 in my account by next Thursday, and in your next 
email let me know how much is in there? I'm going to have Sister Sonne fill this 
prescription for this month and then I should be set for the next 3 months 
(Usually, one bottle lasts me 2 months). I did get my flu shot. It hurt... :) 
It's getting cold, but I have enough winter clothes to keep warm. I do usually 
print off your letters so that I can read them later. The name of my 
dermatologist is Dr. Brown, but I usually see Angela when I go there. She is 
AMAZING! I hope everything works out for you. Tell Grandma good luck and that 
she is in my prayers. I put all of your names in the prayer roll when I went 
this morning. And please know that you are all in my prayers. I LOVE you all and 
appreciate everything you do for me, and especially for the prayers. I 
definitely need them. Missionary work is hard sometimes, but it is worth every 
moment. Thank you for your testimonies. They are what keep me going sometimes... 
Please don't ever forget that I love you and more importantly our Father in 
Heaven loves you. Have an amazing week! Keep up the great missionary work. 
Member involvement is soooo key! I am proud of all of you. 
 
Well, since it's our last P-Day, our zone is going to watch "Forever Strong" so 
I better go. ;) 
 
Love always, 
Sister Stroud 
 
P.S. It's not completely like the sister missionary movie. It IS sort of like 
the Best Two Years, but then again it has been a LONG time since I've seen that 
movie. 

Catey's weekly email 10-7-09 - Sis. Stroud attends General Conference

Dear Family,

Thank you so much for your testimonies.  They always uplift me.

First of all, I just want to let you know that it was not against the rules for me to call James and DeAnn.  I'm just not allowed to talk to them, and we were trying to decide if we wanted to do an endowment session or  initatories.  So, I asked my companion if she would talk to James if I called him.  She agreed, but I don't want to you think that I'm breaking any rules, because I'm not.  I'm a perfect missionary. :) Haha. Just kidding.  But I'm working hard to becoming one.:) (Mother's Note: Catey is a very obedient person in general - if she thought she was doing something that was breaking a rule she would not do it).  I'm so excited to see you all in April.  Do you think Cindy would let you bring Ccodie so I could meet her... and give her tons of kissess???  That would be so awesome!  I'm so excited to see you all!  Did DeAnn say how the temple was?  How's the job search coming, dad?  I'm glad mom is liking 3rd grade. 

Second of all,  I just wanted to say THANK YOU!!! I screamed when I got my package last night! You know you're a missionary when... your favorite day of the week is Tuesday, because that's the day you get mail.:)  I got a letter from Grandma and Grandpa Hilton and from Aunt Kay.  Man, I miss everyone.  And I NEEDED everything in that package.  Seriously, I bought some cheap razors because I couldn't find the razor blades for my good razor, and was just thinking a couple of days ago... I need some shaving cream.  And food is ALWAYS good.  And of course I am freezing, so I was extremely excited to see warm clothes. It's like you could read my mind of what I needed.:)  My companions say thank you too.  They loved it!  They think it's so sweet that you would get them something too. :)

Conference was amazing!  We got Plaza 1 section tickets for the Sunday p.m. session.  We went to all of the sessions in the conference center, except for the Saturday PM session.  We watched that one in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.  It was so amazing watching it in the conference center... and as a missionary.  I felt the Spirit so strong, and my testimony was strengthened so much.  I wish I would have know that James and DeAnn were there.  I would have looked for them!  I saw and took pictures with) a lot of people I know.  I saw Danielle Lussier there (she is in Catey's home ward).  She is so adorable.  I also saw my roommates, and some other friends from college.

I am so grateful that I have such a loving family.  In the conference center, the prophet and his counselors walk in a few minutes before confernce starts.  The thousands of people that are there get really quiet and everyone stands up all at once.  I got chills, and a sense of peace, as the prophet of God walked in the room.  I am so grateful for a living prophet on the earth.  I know, without any doubt, that President Thomas S. Monson is the living prophet of God on the earth.  He DOES receive revelation for the people of this earth.  It is through heeding his counsel and the words of the Book of Mormon that we will be able to return to live with our Father in Heaven.  I wish I had my notes with me from conference, but there was one talk (I don't remember who gave it)... but in my notes I wrote, "SO TRUE! Tell mom and dad thank you.  They are the reason I am who I am."  It was talking about how there isn't one family home evening or family prayer that changes your life, but all of them.. Like the strokes in a painting.  All of them come together to make the painting beautiful.  I believe that with all of my heart and soul.  I know that sometimes you don't feel like you are good parents, but I am here to tell you that that is Satan trying to get to you.  You ARE good parents, and I don't know what I did to deserve you as my parents, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.  If my husband and I could be half of the parents that you both are, then I know my kids will have good parents.  I wouldn't be the person, the missionary, I am if it weren't for you all.  There is a quote that I like that says:

"A missionary is someone who leaves there family for a sort time so others can be with theirs for eternity."

It dawned on me during conference that you are a part of every baptism I have even though you don't know the people who are baptized just because I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you.  I LOVE you ALL so much and am so grateful for ALL of the amazing support that I receive.  I know that this is the true church, and I CANNOT deny it.  In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Love,

Sister Stroud

Catey's weekly email 10-1-09 - 2 baptisms

FAMILY!!!

Ok, so I know, but this is going to be somewhat short... AGAIN.  No tengo usar el banao pero esta computadora es muy despacio. (translation: I don't have to use the bathroom but this computer is SLOW! So... thank you so much for handling my medical issues. I got to talk to dad yesterday.  That was the highlight of my day, week and mission. :)  It was so good to hear his voice.  I can't wait unitl Christmas! Could you send me my winter clothes???   Also, will you send me another thing of foundation?  I'm really sorry to ask, but when I have to wear make-up every day, it goes a lot faster.  If you would send my NAU sweatpants with my winter clothes, that would be FANTASTIC.  It is soooo cold.  It is already snowing on the mountains, and it's only a matter of time before it snows here!

Ok, so good news... I talked to my mission president yesterday, and he said that I can go to DeAnn's endowment (Will you forward this to her PLEASE, or tell her the following).  I would LOVE to go and see her and James (which is totally ok with my presdient - he even said that if you guys come into town I could get permission to see you).  The only thing is that if I go to her endowment it would have to be the 8 a.m. session on a Wednesday morning (my P-day).  Then, I could be there.  Tell her no pressure.  If that doesn't work, it's totally ok.  I won't be offended, but that is the only way that I would be able to seem them.  Just let her know.  I  really want to see them.  I've been a  little homesick lately, so I think it might actually be good, but I totally understand if it doesn't work out. :)

Let's see, what else?  I'm so glad everyone is doing good.  I always pray for you all and I hope you know how much I love you.  It's good to hear how everyone is progressing.  I know I am.

We had two baptisms this past Saturday (my 3rd and 4th baptisms, so far).  It was sooo amazing!  I love this family.  They are planning on being sealed in a year.  They are amazing!  When we come back to my mission in a year and a half, they are 1st on the list of people I want you all to meet.

Anyways, I better go before the email gets deleted.  That seems to be the tradition of late.  I am so excited for conference on Saturday and Sunday (we have CLOSE UP seats)!  Yay for sister missionaries in the Utah Salt Lake mission!!!! :)

Anyways, I LOVE you all so much... more that you will ever know.  I love this gospel.  I know without any doubt in my heart that it is true.  Thank you for everything you ALL do for me.  You (and your amazing testimonies) are truly a blessing in my life!  I'm soooo sorry if I'm such a horrible writer.  We don't get a lot of time, but I do what I can.  Thank you for your support.

Yo testifico que la iglesia de jesucristo de los santos de los ultimos dias is la iglesia verdad en el mundo hoy. (translation: I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the true church on the earth today.) My Spanish is getting pretty good, eh? :)

I LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Love,
Sister Stroud

Hola familia! 
 
Como esta? So... this week has been soooo busy! I think that we need a P-Day 
from our P-Day. :) We went to the temple this morning and did a session. It was 
so awesome, since I haven't been in like 6 weeks. Then, we went and washed our 
car, cleaned our apartment, did our laundry, wrote some letters. 
 
So let's see. I'm going to try to write you this week. I can't concentrate right 
now. I have a really bad headache (it's almost that time of the month, and I can 
already tell that it's not going to be a fun one... I have been having 
"morning/afternoon/evening pre-period sickness"), so I'm just going to tell you 
the basics, and I'll write more later in a letter. 
 
So... Yes, we get to go to all 4 sessions of General Conference at the 
conference center. :) I live on the streets so I don't have an address. JUST 
KIDDING! My address is... 866 E. Harrison Ave (Unit D). My companion speaks 
English really well, although she only knew a tiny bit before her mission. She 
learned most of it at the MTC, and on her mission. But she is awesome! 
 
Tell DeAnn that I will write her soon. I'll give her some words of advice. :) 
 
So... I'm going to have to go off Adderall. I'm not too happy about it, but I've 
checked some different stores and the cheapest I can find it is like $60, and I 
don't want to pay that much, so I'll just pray extra hard. 
 
Please know that I LOVE you all so much! You don't even know. And I miss you 
tons. I LOVE reading your emails. A mission is definitely not an easy thing 
(even though I absolutely LOVE it), but I always get so much strength out of 
reading your emails and testimonies. 
 
I want you to know that I have a strong, firm testimony of this church. It grows 
amazing amounts everytime I share it. I know that it is because Heavenly Father 
loves us that He restored His church on the earth today through Joseph Smith. I 
know that the Book of Mormon is true. I have developed such an AMAZING LOVE for 
the Book of Mormon in my short time on a mission. I know that as we live by it's 
teachings, we will feel so much peace and happiness in our lives. I know that 
Jesus Christ lives and loves us. He gave His life for us, so that if we follow 
in His footsteps, we can return to live with Him again. I pray that we will all 
follow His example, and that we will strengthen our relationships with him and 
testimony of Him. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, Amen. 
 
Give Codie LOTS of kisses for me. I'll write you soon. 
 
Love always, 
Sister Stroud 

Catey's weekly email 9-8-09

Ok, so I'm really sorry... but this is going to be relatively short. :( 
 
First of all, I'm really sorry about last week. We had a baptism on Saturday, so 
we had to be there for his interview with our district leader. It is always an 
amazing experience to see a child of God be baptized, and to see that change in 
their lives. Before his baptism, he (his name is David) was struggling with 
smoking. So, my skinny-minny companion told him that we would give up chocolate 
if he gave up smoking. Yeah, um... easy for her... she doesn't like sweets. Me, 
on the other hand... let's just say I really struggled. :) Mom, I am so your 
child. ;) Anyways, he was baptized, and it was amazing. He was my first baptism 
of someone that I taught from the very beginning. 
 
Second of all, thank you soooooo much for the package! It was like Christmas in 
September, and I really needed ALL of it! You should have seen my face light up 
when I opened it. :) BreAnn did bring me cookies (they were DELICIOUS... I ate 
all of them.)!!! And it's not against the rules, as long as they just drop them 
off on my doorstep. I just can't see them. Don't worry, I being a good girl. ;) 
I also want to thank EVERYONE who is supporting me right now. I pray for all of 
you, and am soooo grateful that I have such amazing family and friends. I don't 
know what I did to ever deserve any of it, but I thank Heavenly Father every 
night for all of you who are supporting me right now. You will never know how 
much it means to me, because there are no words that can describe it. But... 
please know that I am so grateful for you and I LOVE you so much. 
 
Transfers were yesterday. I really struggled. I did not want to leave my 
trainer. In fact, I cried at the transfer building. Like REALLY cried. I felt so 
emotional. The elders were probably all thinking "Sisters..." :) Oh well... My 
trainer, Sister Kalolo and I got white-washed out of our area. They put elders 
in our old area. My new companion, Sister Azzaya, and I got put in the elder's 
area. Sister Azzaya is way awesome. She is from Mongolia. She also does not 
drive (my last companion didn't drive either), so when I get off my mission in 
like 16 1/2 months, I am not driving at all. :) Anyways, she is so tiny. I feel 
like a giant next to her, but she is way awesome. 
 
Give Codie LOTS of kisses for me. Please tell everyone that I'm sooo sorry that 
I'm such a slacker when it comes to writing. It's hard to find time to do 
ANYTHING. I'm doing the best I can. Tell everyone I love them. Tell James and 
DeAnn that their puppy is so CUTE!I miss them tons and am so proud of them! I'll 
write them next week. Tell Grandma and Grandpa thank you so much for the letter. 
It made my week. :) Tell Cindy HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 
 
Thank you so much again for everything. I love you all more than you will ever 
know. And I miss you tons. But I know that I am where the Lord needs me right 
now. Even when it gets tough, I know that Heavenly Father send me her for a 
reason. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Right? :) Haha. Anyways, 
I LOVE you all. I really have to go to the bathroom, and once we leave the email 
room, we don't get to come back... So, I know that this is the restored gospel 
of Jesus Christ on the earth today. I know that Heavenly Father hears and 
answers our prayers. I pray that I can make Him proud by working diligently to 
bring souls unto Him. I love Him, and I love His Gospel. 
 
Have an awesome week and I'll write next week. :) 
 
With all my love, 
Sister Stroud 

Catey's latest update - August 26, 2009

Dear Family and Friends,
So... I got to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication on Sunday. It was AMAZING... beyond words. Like... I literally can't explain it. It was one of the most spiritual experiences of my entire life. My testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ was strengthened so much. We sat in the room next to the Celestial room, where the prophet was. President Eyring gave the dedicatory prayer. I got tears in my eyes as he blessed the missionaries around the world... and their families, and as I felt my Savior's love. After the dedication, they had all of the children, teenagers and sister missionaries (there were 4 of us) go out of the room and into the hallway. President Monson, President Eyring and Elder Ballard stood right across from us... Like they were standing 5 feet in front of me. President Monson then serenaded us with a song ... about a tangerine. :) He is soooo hilarious! Chills ran through my body as I realized that I was standing in front of a prophet of God, in the House of God. It was quite the experience. He has the best sense of humor. He was cracking us up. We were standing on the second floor of the temple, so you could see down onto the first floor, and President Monson came out of the Celestial Room and said to us, "Don't jump!" We all started cracking up. Oh man President Monson ... :)

We have also been talking to Elder Zwick of the Seventy. Actually, we have gone over to his house a couple of times. He is in one of our stakes. We met him in the temple, and he was like "Come over to my house any time." He is an awesome man. He is really down to earth. His wife is really sweet too. :)

We do have quite a few baptisms coming up. Acutally ... the Holy Ghost has quite a few baptisms coming up. We are just the Lord's instruments in inviting these elect sons and daughters of our loving Heavenly Father to follow the example of our Savior, Jesus Christ by entering into the waters of baptism. The Spirit does everything. We just have to listen. I am really excited for these baptisms. So far in our zone, whe have had 23 baptisms in the month of August! It has been the most amazing experience to watch the hand of the Lord in our lives as well as in the lives of these people. It is amazing to see their lives change for good...the light that comes to them as they accept the Savior in their life.

I know that this is the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the way to true happiness. As we follow the example of our Savior, we will feel the peace and joy that He has promised us as we strengthen our relationship with Him. I LOVE this gospel, I LOVE being on a mission, I LOVE the Book of Mormon. I know that it is truly God's word. I pray for a confirmation of it every night, and every night I get the feeling of peace to know that it is true, and that it is because of our Heavenly Father's love for us, His children, that we have this amazing book. I LOVE President Monson. Heavenly Father truly does reveal His will for us through a living prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. I LOVE the Savior. My relationship with Him has been strengthened so much since I have been on a mission. I can see His hand in my life and in the lives of others on a daily basis. I know that He lives and that He loves us. I pray that we will all put our trust in Him. He wants us to ask for His help in our lives. He is waiting for us, all we have to do is ask. We never have to feel alone when we make the Savior the central part of our lives. As we seek first the kingdom of God, all other things will fall into place in our lives. This I promise you.

I love you all. I pray for you. You have all played a part in making me the person I am today. For this, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Heavenly Father loves you more than you will ever know. He wants us to return to live with Him again. I want us all to return to live with Him again. Please... never forget that you are a child of God. In the name of our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Love,
Sister Catey Stroud

Update and new address

Sister Stroud left for her first area last Thursday, July 30, 2009. She first went to the Mission Home to meet her Mission President, President Sonne and her trainer. Her trainer is Sister Kalolo from Samoa. Because Sister Kalolo doesn't drive, Catey will do all the driving. Her first area is in Salt Lake. We found out that she will not be serving in Wyoming or Nevada. They only send the Elders there. Last week she worked at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House for two days. She also was able to attend a baptism and is teaching a man named David who was a referral. According to Catey he is "Golden." She has already had a great experience teaching a women named Corie. The following is in Catey's words: "She (Corie) has a three year-old son, who is just as cute as can be. We taught her about having hope, and pressing forward with faith. I know the Holy Ghost was with me, and that He was the one teaching her. It was a really awesome experience. She wants to be baptized and is praying about August 23rd!"

Sister Stroud lives in the basement of a Muslim couples home which is very spacious. Even though they could each have their own room, according to mission rules they have to share a room. One interest of note is that Catey's Mission President informed her that her hair has to be cut even shorter. Before her mission she had 5" cut off. She said she didn't mind though as she loves to be pampered with a haircut.

Please keep Catey in your prayers and if you can write to her. She may not always be able to write back, but she would love to hear from you. Her new address is:

Utah Salt Lake City Mission
West Entrance
3487 South 1300 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84106-2951

Love,
Momma Stroud (Catey gave me this wonderful name- isn't she great :) )

Sister Stroud Missionary Update

Dear Family and Friends,
I wanted to let you know that Catey is doing fine and is loving the MTC. She also loves her companion, Sister Hardy, who is from Louisiana. We received an email from her last Tuesday which was her P-day. Her email is full of her humor and her spiritual side. One funny thing that she wrote is, "I'm pretty much super popular and have already gotten like 524 letters. Ha Ha." That sounds just like Catey.

I would also like to share part of her testimony with you. "I know without a doubt, that this is the true gospel of Jesus Christ, restored by Joseph Smith in these last days. I know that Heavenly Father loves each and every one of us. We truly are His children... I know that Jesus Christ loves us so much that he gave His live for us. He knows exactly what we are going through, every struggle, every pain."

Catey's departure date for her first area has been changed. She leaves July 29th instead of August 5th. I will try to update her blog on Tuesdays as we receive her emails. Thank you for keeping Catey in your prayers. Please write to her if you have a spare minute. I know she would love to hear from you.
Love,
Momma Stroud