Far From Neutral Notions - Philippine politics, culture and stuff

That’s it. The weather’s gone to the dogs. The rain’s been pretty much off and on until today, where it pretty much rained all day. With the way the wind is blowing, it’s even threatening to ruin my challenge of a lifetime on Saturday, as according to the Philippine Weather Bureau (PAGASA) bulletin, issued 5:00 p.m., 15 August 2007:

At 2:00 p.m. today, Typhoon “EGAY” was located based on satellite and surface data at 420 kms east northeast of Virac, Catanduanes (15.7N, 128.1E) with maximum sustained winds of 175 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 210 kph. It is forecast to move west at 9 kph. Moderate to strong southwesterly surface windflow prevailing over Luzon and western sections of Visayas.

The “tell”, though, is in the forecast for the 18th and 19th: mostly cloudy with scattered rainshowers & thunderstorms. Which is PAGASA talk for “we don’t know”. Which sucks because I’m really looking forward to this “expedition” and I don’t want to have to spend any part of it under a tent or wrapped up in a raincoat. So yes, I am downer than a bar of hash.

Which, of course, necessitates some of that Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia magic to cheer me up, which means I leave you with this moment of zen (yes, Syd, we’re both copping Stephen Colbert):

Sorry that you feel that way
The only thing there is to say
Every silver lining’s got a
Touch of grey

I will get by / I will get by
I will get by / I will survive

Grateful Dead, Touch of Grey

Popularity: 4% [?]