Thoughts and Non Thoughts

This imposing Basilica claims to be the biggest in all of Asia. It does have a commanding view of the whole town, being situated on top of the hill.

Detail of facade of Taal Basilica.

Still fluttering.

I figured I can't wait till full frame becomes more affordable and got an EOS 550D in the meantime. What a revelation! Canon's DSLR technology has moved in leaps and bounds since my EOS 10D. The higher resolution megapixel count of the 550D really matters in improving image quality, and the low-light ability is amazing. The kit lens (efs 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 IS ) is quite sharp too. Perfect companion for a day trip when one wants to travel light.

Race to avoid a meltdown. It's like an overheating car. The engine is off but it is still very hot so you need to cool it. Unfortunately the radiator pump is broken, so the water in the radiator boils over, the pressure builds up, and the cap blows off. You hose down the engine with sea water to cool it down as a last ditch effort.

No other country is better prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis than Japan. Yet TV footages show how considerable the damage can still be. My total admiration goes to the Japanese people. Very disciplined and orderly as the earthquake and tsunami struck. And very dignified in the middle of all this human tragedy. What a people! They will surely surmount this challenge.