Thoughts and Non Thoughts

Here's what works for me. 1. It starts with the grip. For the driver, I grip it in my palm and fingers (Hank Haney). I use a Vardon grip. I align the clubface exactly to the target with a slightly strong grip. 2. The rest of the set-up is standard. I stand farther from the ball than with my hybrids, the ball is positioned just inside the left heel, weight favoring the right leg, right shoulder lower than the left (reverse K). 3. Backswing starts with a low and slow takeaway. The sequence is takeaway, then begin cocking of the wrist halfway back then full shoulder turn (Leadbetter). I feel my weight on my right leg as I complete my shoulder turn. 4. Downswing starts with the weight shift, not with the shoulders. Smooth transition, no jerking. Swing the arms from the inside. Tempo is key for maximum clubhead speed at impact. 5. Keep the left wrist firm and left elbow straight (no chicken wing) at impact. 6. Release after impact by turning the right hand over the left, throwing the ar...

Just one stroke to break 90 again. Too bad -- that disaster in the 15th hole and the double bogey on the 18th... So close. Getting closer.

Fairway of hole no. 1. Ayala Greenfield Golf and Leisure Club

This report , that a laboratory has created an artificial bacteria that reproduces itself, is going to be remembered as the start of something significant in the history of man. Like the invention of the atom bomb, or the computer. It raises questions about life, ethics, religion, science. It's another watermark, heralding a different, new phase in humanity's journey in this universe.

Four hours to vote. Democracy hanging by the line -- literally. If people didn't respect the queue it would have been total chaos. The tolerance and patience of the Filipino showed through. The bottleneck was not the PCOS machines, it was the handing out of ballots. The good news is that the counting seems to be really quick, 38% counted in 3 hours. We could have full results the next day -- this will be historic!

Good looks, but does it perform as well as it looks? It does not pretend to be a big sedan, but is it a tame passenger car or a sporty urban compact? From the rumbling growl of the engine when one steps on the pedal, it immediately gives the impression it wants to race. The 1.5 L model does deliver that feeling upon acceleration. Though its gear ratio is aimed at fuel economy one does not feel the engine holding back as it chalks up the rpm. There is no doubt that the City can pass other cars as it navigates the city lanes. Steering is responsive and the handling is surefooted. It is perfect for the city, but it can hold its own on the way to the suburbs too. It can cruise at 100 kph on the highway and easily summon another 20 kph for overtaking. Trunk space is generous, too, for those out of town trips. One can directly link an ipod and control it from the stereo system for uninterrupted sonic thrills through the superb sound system. It's ride is typical ...

D5 AWD Good looks. Comfortable, car-like ride. Lots of conveniences, including hands-free sync with your mobile phone and full ipod connectivity. Not to mention City Safety (the car stopping itself when it senses you are about to hit the car in front of you). Handling is excellent and steering is responsive. The 205 hp D5 diesel engine is powerful and quick. Has that true SUV character yet has the comfort of a mid-size sedan. It's a winner from Volvo.

Sunrise on Lake Caliraya from the Lagos del Sol Resort .