Is Cuba next?

 In the - topsy turvy world of Trump, the next target could be Cuba? In recent days he has expressed ideas about the possibility of an invasion. This would only add to a sense that the - world has been turned upside down. Iran paradoxically - despite the endless bombing its no closer to caving in. They have basically stopped all sea traffic through the Straight of Hormuz, which is where all the oil ships go through. The oil prices have shot up and petrol prices at the pump will start to escalate. This will have a negative influence on the economy and productivity. There are no winners in this senseless war. So rather than making Iran collapse -  it’s continuing its theocratic despotic regime. 

Do jury trials, protect judges?

 It has been argued the proposals by David Lammy, the justice secretary - to limit jury trials to a limited number of serious cases, could put judges at risk. The jury system protects judges who are guided by the decision of the jury. If this protection is withdrawn, then judges are exposed to potential danger. Is this a scenario that is likely to happen or just - judicial hot air? I think the question should be addressed and Lammy, should be obliged to answer these questions in greater detail. Moreover the jury system has had a long and illustrious history in this country - dating back to 1220 and has been the bulwark of our legal system - so why change it? 

Dr Michael Mosley.

 I’ve been listening to the podcast Just One Thing by the inspiring late Dr Michael Mosley (1957-2024). He died while on holiday with his family on the Greek Island of Symi in the summer of 2024. He was an exceptional person and brilliant communicator of complex health advice in a way that was - understandable and without being pretentious. I took to heart his advice regarding Nordic walking. It completely changed my attitude to going out for a walk - in the Kent countryside, no matter the weather. I will for ever be grateful to him for this simple recommendation - that has influenced my daily routine and walks. 

Keeping fit in old age.

 In the current issue of New Scientist magazine, there is a fascinating article about - how to stay fit and strong as we get older. There are a number of important markers, that we can recognise, when we are not yet old. These are: unintentional weight loss, self-reported exhaustion, low physical activity, slow walking speed and weak grip strength. Perhaps the most interesting one that stands out and apparently is an important indicator is that of - walking speed. Walking calls on many aspects of bodily functioning: leg and muscle strength, breathing capacity, endurance, balance and awareness of the immediate environment, good posture and eye sight, it also effects brain movement centres in the brain. Walking therefore is a whole body thing and must not be underestimated - for good energetic health in old age. In addition Nordic walking - addresses many of these particular challenges and should be recommended by their GP - as a pragmatic and practical approach to these problems. Moreover it’s great fun and makes walking more interesting and enjoyable. More likely than not frail people in older age feel more lonely and hold more negative attitudes to the aging process. Having a positive and creative mindset to aging will make it - more enjoyable and just - part of life itself and not something to be feared or dreaded. So - keep fit and carry on. 

Claude Monet 1840-1926.

 The great Impressionist artist Claude Monet, was so poor during his lifetime that he had to appeal to fellow artists for financial support. In particular from his friend and colleague Edouard Manet (1832-1883) who was from a rich upper class Bourgeois family. There are reports that in order to secure a loan Monet, had to give - to the bank one of his now famous pictures of water lilies. We often hear, perhaps apocryphally - about the poor artist working alone in a garret, but in Monet’s case this was unfortunately true. 

Simpson’s in The Strand.

 Anyone who enjoys eating out at a grand restaurant, there is no better place in London and I would argue in the world than - Simpson’s in The Strand. My parents took me there when in was 18, back in 1960 and I’ve been back on many occasions and have never been disappointed. Its had its ups and downs - since opening in 1848 as a proper eating house, but now its back in its fall glory. It open again after a proper face lift by the doyen of the restaurant trade Jeremy King of the famous Arlington restaurant. I read his fascinating book about the ruthless restaurant business Without Reservation - the other day and enjoyed it immensely. So I very much look forward to dinner with an old friend on - Good Friday at this iconic old lady of the restaurant trade - bon appetite. 

Was this the best 6 Nations competition ever?

 Many people will discuss this year’s competition for years to come as to - whether it was the best 6 Nations competition? The game last night between France and England - was nail biting and heart breaking in  - equal measure. Down to the last kick of this enthralling performance, France was the eventual winner at 48/46. I couldn’t have enjoyed it more. What a competitive game to the last seconds. Well done France.