Wednesday, 03 January 2007
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Subject: East Coasters Coming to See M&M!
HIGH:
Three brothers and a sister from Syracuse are coming to visit M&M during their Spring Break!
When I accepted Christ on June 13, 2004, my commitment to the Lord was put to the test and challenged every day thereafter. However, with the fellowship of 4 particular individuals, my young faith blossomed. When I joined my church in Syracuse, I had an immediate connection with the freshmen since I was also a Christian newbie and didn't know exactly what to do as a Christian. Despite the six-year age gap, I felt at home with this group as we learned together the very basics and what it means to be a disciple for Christ.
Here are just some tidbits I'd like to share about the awesome loved ones who are visiting in March:
Peter: First time I met this guy, I was scared of him. Mean-looking, wore a shirt labeled "Harlem," and quiet - not the usual kind of person I associated with. Yet, God chose us to be the best of friends. He's loyal, thoughtful, and can pretty much do anything well (don't you hate him already?). My first impressions were definitely wrong and the picture to the left is deceiving - Peter was the first of many brothers in Christ who made me feel welcomed, cherished, and needed in Syracuse. He excels in recognizing value in others.
Phil: Not as intimidating as his twin brother, Peter, but just as, or perhaps even more loyal, thoughtful, and well-rounded. God certainly blessed these two with amazing talents and I'm humbled by Phil's meek nature. His family hosted me during last year's Spring Break in NYC, so it's quite an honor for me to host him and his brother this year.
Anna: The little sister you've always wanted (well, besides the one I already have - sorry Em)! God blessed this social butterfly with the gift to attract and welcome others to go to church. She accepted Christ shortly after I met her and we've had a splendid walk together in understanding the Lord. I will be very critical and cautious of any guy my little sister in Christ dates.
Jonas: This guy loves simplicity and makes your life more enjoyable by being simple. He is easily pleased if you give him something tasty to eat. He sings for people who are sick or have birthdays. He is always willing to give a helping hand in whatever people do. He and I have countless fun discussions regarding our struggles in pursuing the balance between "Let it be" and "Do Something!" Life is quite simple by being around Jonas and I think that's one of the many reasons why everyone loves the guy.
Christ is all about love and these four individuals made sure I recognized that in Syracuse. I'm certainly looking forward to seeing them soon!
LOW:
I'm hoping that my friends' Spring Break experience in California will motivate them to move out here after they graduate! But since I don't get out much, I need help from those who know the bay area!
I'm definitely taking them to GrX, Santa Clara University, and all my favorite restaurants. What do you Californians or California-lovers suggest? Oh, and if you want to get to know these four loved ones better, contact me! It'd be meaningful for my East Coast and West Coast circles to mesh.
Thursday, 14 December 2006
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Subject: GrX's Dance Ministry - 8Count
HIGH:
This video will explain why I've been neglecting the online community for so long.
This was one of the best nights of my life. To serve God in the fellowship of my brothers and sisters in a way that just draws people of all backgrounds to the concept of faith, passion, and love - life doesn't get much better than this.
After the show, all 19 members of this dance ministry took advantage of the numerous opportunities to witness to the audience. We received heart-felt compliments and in return, we found ways to connect with them, to build relationships with them, and to let them know that Jesus Christ is the inspiration for everything we do.
LOW:
Sunday's success didn't come without stress, conflicts, and suffering.
There were moments of weakness in all of us - physical exhaustion, injuries, loss of focus of the whole reason why our ministry exists in the first place - life can get ugly when things don't go as planned.
In the end, I've learned that every progressing ministry struggles. But on December 10th, 2006, 8Count persevered in the name of Christ. I absolutely love this ministry.
Saturday, 18 November 2006
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Subject: Looking Up when Feeling Down
HIGH:
I don't know where I'd be without God and loved ones.
Actually, I do. It'd be a very bad, desolate, and hopeless place.
Thanks for the prayers and support, everyone.
LOW:
Failing the bar exam is a disappointment to say the least.
The bar has set me back in so many ways. And now I have to study intensely again for another 3 months. Sigh.
Friday, 22 September 2006
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Subject: M&M Day!
HIGH:
Mindy is officially part of the Louie clan.
The wedding went beyond our expectations. I can list the highlights of the big day, but why bother when you have the M&M DVD arriving in 3 months? Plus, the professional photos are coming next week! We'll have to settle for candid camera shots in the meantime. Much thanks to many loved ones who shared these priceless pics!
M&M Newlyweds! This was shot when Mindy's younger brother and my little sister read out loud our parent-appreciation letters. From tears to roaring laughter, M&M will never forget this moment... especially when Stephen cracked and broke down from saying, "I feel like the luckiest girl in the world!"
Mindy surprised me with a 14-person stretched Hummer limo! I almost cried when I noticed the SHMILY sign on the windows
In case you didn't know about our third year anniversary theme, it means "See How Much I Love You" whereby we would hide little notes with that acronym for each other to find. SHMILY, indeed.
Our "first kiss!"
In front of Pastor Dave too! Mindy and I didn't have time to practice but it looks like she certainly enjoyed it. 
It's an amazing feeling to be loved by those who raised you and those who raised your better half. Their support for M&M and their faith in J.C. truly brings us all closer together.
Just remember, Mews + Louies = Mewies!
The two-year old ring-bearer couldn't be part of the family photo shoot since he was all tired out from walking down the aisle! My poor nephew!
Bride and Groom at the headtable. The center-pieces were so gorgeous that even I wanted to take one home! And I don't even like flowers...
Our first lovey-dovey dance somehow transformed into a hip-hop and techno delight - stay tuned for a streaming online video performance!
In addition to the delicious cake, we had All-You-Can-Eat Chocolate Fondue! Unfortunately, M&M were so busy toasting, reuniting with loved ones from across the globe, and dancing that we totally forgot about dessert! My siblings tell me the fondue was EXCELLENT... those lucky punks.
Once DJ John Jow started from slow songs, to disco, to breaking, to raving... the dance floor was NEVER empty... great times indeed.
Can you guess what the M&M party favors were? I heard that one of my dearest friends from Kindergarten finished at least five of these babies by the end of the night. 
M&M with 3 out of 250 loved ones who attended the wedding - Mang (closest friend from high school) , Mayumi (dearest friend from Japan - she actually flew from her country just for the wedding!), and TJ (best dancing friend who I studied abroad and trained with in a breaking crew in Tokyo).
Thank God for countless reasons - I'm just so happy that we were able to share His love and truth in such a public yet welcoming manner. I certainly hope that the ceremony gave a new perspective of J.C. to those who do not know Him yet.
LOW:
An alarming number of loved ones couldn't attend our wedding day.
Some had prior commitments. Others had to be with loved ones who unfortunately became critically ill. Whatever the setback, M&M pray that God blesses them in ways that brings all of us closer to Him.
Friday, 25 August 2006
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Subject: Anticipating the Big Day
HIGH:
This is my last post as a FREE man.
So before I say "I do" on 09/09/06, anyone got any "last words" for me?
Feel free to comment about the joys and horrors of weddings and marriages.
LOW:
Some people would consider my HIGH as a LOW. So go figure.
Monday, 14 August 2006
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Subject: Propaganda Gone Wrong & My Former Favorite Food
HIGH:
This doesn't surprise me at all.
The things people are willing to do to make Israel look evil... makes me laugh at times.If you don't read the newspaper, you are uninformed. If you do read the newspaper you are misinformed.
- Mark Twain
LOW:
This stinks.
Mindy doesn't need to nag me anymore. I'm quitting... for now.
Monday, 31 July 2006
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Subject: Bachelor Party & Post-Bar Exam Results
HIGH:
Bachelor Party ROCKED.- Rock Climbing: one of the most rewarding experiences is accomplishing your goal with the support of your brothers.
- Dodgeball: when was the last time you got to peg your best friends?
- Texas Hold'Em Tournament: losing five bucks is nothing, but all SIXTEEN guys losing to my sister-in-law was devastating.
LOW:
The worst is over and I'm trying not to think about it more than I have to.
The 18-hour exam was brutal and I have no idea how I did. One comforting thought is that everyone I know who passed felt like they failed right after taking the bar exam. I certainly hope that I never have to take this monster exam ever again.
I won't receive my results until November. In the meantime, I'll be in job search mode and plan ways to reunite with loved ones with my new-found freedom. - Rock Climbing: one of the most rewarding experiences is accomplishing your goal with the support of your brothers.
Monday, 24 July 2006
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Subject: Love Never Fails Even Though I May
HIGH:
No matter what, I will still love God.
LOW:
75% of this summer was spent preparing for the CA Bar Exam.
Considering how much I've neglected family and friends, the price has been paid. The next three days will determine whether the sacrifice was worthy.
Thursday, 20 July 2006
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Subject: One Week Left & Burnt Out
HIGH:
In exactly one week, I'll be free.
There's just too much subject matter for this 3-day exam. 14 legal subjects crammed in two months. Some have told me to suck it up and they're right, even though they have no idea what I'm dealing with. The headaches, acne, and stress from all the studies comes and goes. Hopefully the knowledge remains.
I can't wait to refocus on the better things in life.
LOW:
In this last week of studying, I noticed my productivity is deteriorating.
The headaches and light-headedness occur more frequently. I almost vomitted the other day during a practice exam. I'm requiring more sleep. I'm more agitated and irritated by the smallest things. Some say I finally hit the inevitable wall where I am physically unable to learn anything more as I've reached my maximum capability - so maybe it's time to wind down and mentally prepare for the 18 hours of testing. Nevertheless, others say running harder that last mile in this marathon is critically important.
Please pray for me so I can move on with my life and never have to experience this academic intensity ever again.
Sunday, 16 July 2006
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Subject: Beefcake Wannabe & Killing "Fun Conversations"
HIGH:
My typical schedule involves eating, sleeping, studying, and exercising.
As a result, I've regained my prime physique of a whopping 125 lbs! Yup, I've gained 5 lbs. in the last two months. Woo hoo!
By September, I hope to be 130 lbs. Nothing wrong with looking better for the future wifey!
LOW:
When you hear gossip, how do you react?
Do you enjoy it? Is it fun for you? Or do you get disgusted? Do you pinpoint the judgmental hearts in people?
I tend to recognize gossip and confront it. Tonight, however, I've been reminded that I need to be a witness with more compassion. It's a very familiar struggle for me.
What if the "hot topic" is already set in motion amongst your peers? I've been accused of killing the "fun" in the conversation by saying, "I think you're being judgmental." Any suggestions (and prayers) would be much appreciated. Thanks.
