Highlights

The Journal

Notes from above the lake.

Quiet observations from the pool, the kitchen, and the road up from Manila. Posted slowly. Read whenever.

First light on Taal — what it actually looks like at six
LakeMarch 12, 2026·4 min read

First light on Taal — what it actually looks like at six

Most people imagine the volcano as a postcard. The morning version is quieter, slower, and worth getting up for.

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Sundown from the pool — the half-hour that justifies the drive
Lake·February 20, 2026

Sundown from the pool — the half-hour that justifies the drive

The drive from Manila — the easy version
Around·January 8, 2026

The drive from Manila — the easy version