Newspaper Boy 2

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Growing up as a self-proclaimed son of a newsrunner, reading newsprints – all sorts of ‘em from broadsheets to tabloids to magazines – have been one of my favorite comfort hobbies. Long before I typed my first word on Yahoo’s search box, learned to surf the Internet and get bombarded by lots of information, I pretty much know from first-hand experience what pop culture columnists define as a generation of excess information.

Waking in the early hours of sunrise everyday to deliver toppling bundles of newspapers may not seem much to have as a mean of living but it has its own perks which I realized only just now. Apart from taking pride on having to be informed on the latest headlines on my classmates in high school, there was also this ‘brag-factor’ on my other budding journalist friends with the abundance of daily newspapers I could feast my eyes on whenever I wanted on that particular day.

Looking back, I could see very much how this simple comfort hobby I take liberty doing almost every day during summers has flickered my other passion for photography, built my appetite for a well-written article, widened my horizon to certain words I thought I’d never use, trained my eye for baby blunders and grammar crimes, made me fall in love with wordplaying and giving birth to new ones, taught me to write as a form of therapy, inspired me to write my own stories in my own blog, and so much more.

I have gone from tabloids to broadsheets, Sunday comics to property reviews, entertainment section to design news and features. I have become a major fan of Kikomachine Komix, a masterpiece of Manix Abrera in Philippine Daily Inquirer, before everyone does in its series of released compilations that has gone mainstream. I’ve read profiles of budding writers, photographers, graphic artists, models and other professionals in their respective artistic realms. I’ve learned about my current field more in print than in any other digital media. I have become informed and inspired throughout these years as I take one moment of my time off to sit back, relax, and read a bunch of newspapers.

ArchInspire#003: SketchUp!

I got my hands busy on SketchUp today. *teehee* The things I do in a boring day. At least I convinced myself to be creative and productive :)

Last Internship I Report

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I remember the first time I stepped into the chic reception area of the gsn+p architecture studio. It was the day of my application and interview to try out if I could make into their internship program. The black lounge sofa was perfect for the minimalistic flavour and clean lines of the whole area. Everything was cool and comfortable and not even a bit of tense I felt. It was the day I said to myself that this is where I wanted to learn; that this where I wanted to grow up. Fast forward to the present time, I look back and felt nostalgic about the whole thing; still staring at mid-blank air out of marvel over the best summer of learning I had ever had.

The point of the internship program in the first place is to expose the student in the office works of the industry and give a shot on the application of everything they have learned over the three years of studying inside the classroom and reading theory books on the profession. But through the weeks of my stay and from the very first time I met one of the Big Boss for an orientation, I realized that there’s truly so much more in the immersion on the practice. Pass the seemingly menial things I did in the office like documenting previous working drawings, answering phone calls, calling suppliers for a quotation, drafting a plan in the AutoCAD, making swatch boards, or even just familiarizing myself in all sorts of construction and finishing materials, there’s always that underlying lesson present not necessarily on the work but about the overall process of the work and the role it is playing in the bigger picture of the industry.

I heard someone say that everything they teach in the university is a fairy tale. That none of it is ever close to being real. I may not suppose all that but one thing’s for sure that I’ll ever believe is when my professors say that not every one of those who take up architecture will become design architects someday – or whatever kind of jobs we deem architects to have. Because the profession is so diversified you can never compartmentalize everything into one.

Take for example the four Big Bosses of the firm who has their own kind of field and contribution in the company. One handles the administrative side that makes sure the services are made available, another handles the creative aspect of the projects (read: pure design), another who is more inclined on the technical details and specifications, and yet another who handles interior design. Together they make the perfect concoction in creating a successful partnership and that is one of the Big Bosses challenged me to be in order to be successful in my own career.

Architecture is all about process management. That six words may probably be one of the most important lessons I’ll ever learn about the profession. It’s about juggling everything all at the same time. It may seem hard, and in fact it all looks so hard. But that is the reality being an architect. That is the reality of embarking on the road less traveled.

Some may say that we all have different paces when it comes to learning and comprehension in life. That some may prefer to learn inside the classroom and some may otherwise. I don’t know about me but I’m infinitely grateful for the wonderful opportunity that was given to me to experience the profession first-hand. And I’m sure I couldn’t have done it alone. There’s always that need to look for mentors that may guide you in the foundation years of your discernment as an architect. My internship experience as a whole may not be all about sunshine and smiles but I’m thankful. And I feel blessed.

Infinitely Thankful

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My last day of internship at gsn+p architecture studio has been very emotional. It was an amalgam of sadness, happiness, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Two days after everything ended, I look back and started to recall all the lessons that have been inculcated by everyone both in my mind and heart throughout the internship program. The dinner we had catered by Congo Grille was great but the short program prepared by us interns that started with a small speech of gratitude have been quite affecting.

I wasn’t at all prepared with that speech. It was all impromptu. And so are my thoughts that are mixed-up at the time. I haven’t had the chance to thank everyone in a more personal manner. So though I know most of them will never get to read this post, I’m going to thank them all anyway in this cyber niche where I’m most good at. My heart welling up with gratitude goes...

• To Mam T for accepting me in the company and imprinting a great first impression of the firm.
• To Mam D and Mam C for being nice and accommodating of us interns.
• To Mam F whom I sensed a great deal of sincerity, thank you so so much.
• To Mam A whom I felt almost like my mom with all the lessons she taught us.
• To Mam J and my mentor Sir E for the time they have let us accompany them in one of their day. Those were special moments when I got to see from their vantage point as an architect and walk their shoes as a passionate professional.
• To Kuya D with the lessons he shared on creative procrastination and learning in general.
• To Kuya M and Kuya V for the stories they have shared back when they were in college. And to Kuya V for being such a nice chum.
• To Ate E for letting me help in the preparation of bid documents at the day of my first pre-bidding conference attendance. And for being so nice.
• To Kuya J and Ate R for the time I had my first site survey in a mall. The time I acquired an obsessive pulse to measure almost anything is priceless.
• To the RND Boys that are unaware of the inspiration they have left me with their wonderful works.
• To the Pretty Engineers who are happy enough to let us help in their busy works. I appreciate the times when I get to help with all the canvassing and quotations. You know how I’d rather do anything than do nothing at all.
• To the Fabulous Interior Designer whom I felt terrified with the first time I met her but turned out to be a great automatic posing camera diva. I appreciate all her fabulousness. *laughs*
• To Miss Secretary and her warm welcome with us almost everyday.
• To the Big Boss R for sharing stories of his starting days.
• To the Big Boss G for never falling short in providing us inspiration and challenges with all his pep talks in our meetings with him. It is ultimately because of you that I have become more determined to embark on the rocky road of being an architect. I will never ever forget the lessons you have imparted on us interns about the profession and about being a great father. I thank you for the effort you did on letting us see the bigger picture of life with that decision to take on the journey.
• And of course, to Ate G whom of all the staff I am very grateful with. Thank you for all the stories you shared (I guess I’ll be reading some more from your blog XD) and for that silent smile that never fails to melt my heart out. Thank you so so much.

My stay came and went by fast but I will never forget to look back on gsn+p as I move on that journey.

Internship Week 5 Wrap-Up

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My week started on Tuesday because of the May 10 elections last Monday. I was rather relieved to be here in the office because of all the going-ons the previous day. But I guess I’ll save that story for a more appropriate time.

I basically did nothing last Tuesday. It was another one of those times wherein you feel stagnant and all. Recalling the time I had a talk with one of the staff wherein I said that I’d rather be loaded and all crammed up than doing nothing at all. So I opted to fix up the deranged storage room again and read some research about CMS just to keep myself busy.

My Wednesday and Thursday was quite the opposite. I assisted one of the staff in preparing the bid documents to be used on the pre-bidding conference to be held that Thursday after lunch. It was about a proposed two-storey commercial warehouse to be discussed with the general contractors and the rest of the consultants. It was the first time I ever get to observe in one that was why I was paying real close attention to everyone, the manner how they speak and address their concerns, and how they generally deal with each other. I realized they meant real business. And it was then I truly realize I was witnessing the business side of the architectural profession in the construction industry.

Aside from the swatch board of McDonalds restaurant which I helped doing with my fellow interns, the other highlight of my week was also the meeting with one of the partners. He went about the usual way telling us stories of his endeavors (which are all interesting and I swear I’ll never get tired of listening), and also had a few icebreaker exercises. It’s just too bad that the moment I finally felt comfortable to speak up, everything was cut short due to some circumstances.

There are only three days left until the end of my internship at gsn+p architecture studio. If I were not here, I wouldn’t probably have the best summer I’ve just experienced. Learning something first-hand from the industry sure beats the hot summer getaway from the beach.

ArchInspire#002: Architecture Studios

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It was a very busy day in the office preparing bid documents for the pre-bidding conference our firm held for a proposed two-storey commercial warehouse with the general contractors and the rest of the consultants. It was the first time I ever get to observe in one that was why I was paying real close attention to everyone, the manner how they speak and address their concerns, and how they generally deal with each other. Oh, they meant real business. And it was then I truly realize I was witnessing the business side of the architectural profession in the construction industry. Phew!

Anyways, above are inspirational pictures of the NADiff a.p.a.r.t / Schemata Architecture Office at Shibuya in Tokyo, Japan, which I stumbled upon searching distinctive design for an architectural office. The instant I saw them I knew they were from Japan for the clean aesthetic signature and minimalistic flavor. I am truly a big fan :)

Internship Week 4 Wrap-Up

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Work started Tuesday this week in observance of a non-working holiday last Monday. I started off as a receptionist which I secretly enjoyed having to deal with something very different from what I used to most of the time in the office. I realized one thing from the work of Ate Reyla, which I experienced doing one whole day – that though she’s not in the production, her work demands a lot from her. Though it initially feels like I was stuck there answering and transferring phone calls, at the end of the day, I figured that the real interaction happens most in the reception area, entertaining occasional visitors and having those short random talks with the rest of the staff in the office. Another lesson learned from this task is that no work is too small in an architectural organization. I mean, even the most “non-architectural” thing is crucial in the entire process of operating a company.

I was also able to help one staff in drafting an as-built plan of a bookstore renovation project we surveyed last week. I was glad that I could even help just in drafting. Only it turned out, it wasn’t that easy at all. The data we gathered last week did not seem to match up once put in paper. The measurements were all messed up and it just blew my mind having to see him flustered at my work. I made it up with him until the end of the day to start over again but the measurements don’t really add up so they took off to the bookstore the next day to confirm the figures. Sigh. I can now see the amount of resources and work one puts in a particular project to get things done.

Anyways, in generalizing the standing of my week here, I’d have to say it has been pretty slow but unconsciously fast. Oh, the irony. Nonetheless, just as I have promised the first time I set my foot in this firm, I’ll make the most of everything by opening myself to all sorts of opportunities of learning. Whatever it may be.

Blazing Fire Trees

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Fire trees (Morella Faya) have been in bloom for weeks. They truly are here to stay for the summer. What magnificent sight to see :)

Weary

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"Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; 
and all for your love’s sake. Amen.”

I got home from work to see her quietly crying in their bedroom. It takes no genius to realize she’s exhausted - not only physically but as well as emotionally - from all the episodes in her workplace. It pains me to see her like that. It just breaks me into pieces. I swear I’d do anything to take all that suffering from her.

Internship Week 3 Wrap-Up

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The third week of my stay as an intern at gsn+p architecture studio has been the best I’ve had yet. It was quite like an amusement park ride as it brought about emotions of thrills and excitement on the ups and downs of the days throughout the week. So maybe we started off slow with the usual random musings at books, reorganization of the storage room and other small tasks but my week finished off unexpectedly as it turned out to be great after all.

Aside from the two new interns – a lovely surprise with which we will share the rest of the internship program and the two product presentations from suppliers of uPVC windows and LED lights which I found very informative, a side project was given to us to work on the whole week. It was the redesigning and reconstruction of the existing gsn+p website that initially gave me an adrenaline rush (because it was new to me to engage on something other than architectural design). I thought it was going to be a piece of cake (something as simple as a blog, perhaps) until all the technical terms came up that wore all my enthusiasm down. It was like having to communicate to an alien language you’ve no idea of even a bit. We are still working on that research about the skeletal framework of a website. What I realize now which I should have know earlier was the parallel approach we could’ve treaded on just as how we solve a given design problem.

Anyway, the cherry on top of the ice cream slash the surprise inside the cereal box of my week had been the three days I spent outside the four walls of the studio to gather data for the as-built plan of a given renovation project. It was such a great experience because it was also the first time I was able to bridge the concept on a piece of paper and the tangible in the physical world. I was even joking to one of my fellow intern how I acquired an obsessive-compulsive urge to measure almost anything as I got used to the measuring tape on my hands holding it as if it were a delicate piece of weaponry.

The final day of the week proved to be the best yet, as I was able to pretend architect (well, at least only in my mind) while I assist Architect Jen throughout her busy day going all over places to meet clients and gather data. It was like a dream come true being able to witness the world from a professional’s point of view. I looked at her as she browses for fixtures/materials in the home depot and as she talks to a client (the owner of a known trendy restaurant) and realized this is how a professional architect should be.

It was all very refreshing to see.

Divisive Politics: Rantings

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I never liked politics. It was a subject I felt compelled to discuss about given the looming of the May 10 elections. It mattered to me now because I want my first time to vote to make sense. I may be typically young and idealistic but my hopes for a better government and a Godly leader is a desire I felt given to me by a Higher Power.

My vote mattered to me and my dad thinks of that as well, but my single remark on the topic turned us both on the consistencies of oil and water.

It mattered to him because of a promise (bribery). It may be the only way he thinks of to provide for the family which I completely understand but I'm just annoyed at the manner of him putting his trust on politicians and not on the Lord. He may think of that election as something that may directly (financially) change our lives in this trying times but I am annoyed at how they (everyone in our household) completely choose to go blind on that age-old story of promises from politicians who will promise multitudes just to get promising votes from everybody.

I am annoyed at how my father endorses this commercial-ad-saturated presidentiable who has a bad rep on me. I am annoyed at him for imposing politics on my face. I am annoyed at how I felt attacked for opting for a more Godly candidate. And I am completely annoyed how an allowance of five-hundred pesos eats on my time of service on Sundays.

And that's why I never liked politics. Really.

MadMusic#019 - Doubting Thomas by Nickel Creek

I remember them from the song 'This Side' that made the charts back when I was in high school. It's still one of my Sunday afternoon favorites that brings back a lot of memories. That folk flavor of their music reminds me a lot of The Corrs. I love 'em.

Anyway, here's something new from them I stumbled while hopping Youtube. The lyrics of the song is in itself like a prayer. Those gleeks made a great cover of the song which I really loved. Enjoy watching!

For more information about Nickel Creek, click here.

Agape

Fr. Rudy imparted a great homily this Sunday. It was very timely for the looming May 10 elections that have caused much division to the Filipino people. It was as well a new insight for me to love my neighbor despite the difference in my religious beliefs. Because what good would it do to me if I'll only love those who love me. Even pagans and non-Christians love like that.

The Gospel today looked at John 15:12 when Jesus said to his disciples, 'This is my commandment: Love one another as I have loved you'. He was teaching about the perfect kind of love - a love that lays down his life for his neighbor and a love that transcends political colors and religious convictions.