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Continue reading →: Underfloor heating
The renovation of our house has seen a major transformation. Walls removed, chimney breasts and chimney gone and the ground floor dug down to some depth. We have checked with the architect and contractor and it will be possible to install underfloor heating. That’s in addition to insulation. We will…
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Continue reading →: The meaning of life
The final chapter of book 4 of my distance learning course raises some interesting ideas about the meaning of life. John Cottingham is one of the philosophers we are asked to study. His analysis of the doctrines and practices of both Western and Eastern religions is well thought out. Cottingham…
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Continue reading →: Burgeoning dictatorships
If you are looking for signs of would-be dictators, see how their opposition is faring. As a role model, Putin is hard to beat, as Alexei Navalny found to his cost. Anyone hoping to become the sole ruler of their country should prepare to accuse opposition leaders of some treasonable…
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Continue reading →: Imperial Russia
How many people rule Russia? Putin’s war on democracy continues unabated. Propaganda, invasion and the oppression of its own people…where have we seen that before? Oh yes, Nazi Germany and Stalin’s Soviet Union, the totalitarian partnership that slaughtered millions. How long before Trump realises that every time Putin opens his…
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Continue reading →: A memorable farewell
I didn’t know Mavis, but all who did remarked on her kindness and deep devotion to her family. The memorial ceremony was a fine tribute to her with a brave eulogy by her son, Alan and two fine hymns.
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Continue reading →: Neighbourhood coffee
When I find myself downtown I try to find somewhere that serves a good cup of coffee. One such place is Neighbourhood. The only downside is their popularity, which causes queues out the front door. Their sourdough toast and jam is tasty and their espresso is top notch. On my…
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Continue reading →: Fake reviews
Why do some people post fake reviews online? I heard a story at the suit shop that two men who had never been to Belfast and appeared to live in Turkey posted a terrible review of the shop. They couldn’t get the review taken down. Some time later the men…
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Continue reading →: EU policy
Now that Donald Trump has jeopardized the NATO protection of Europe it’s time for EU solidarity to show it’s mettle. Kaja Kallas is the EU’s foreign policy chief and grew up in the Soviet Union. Estonia finally got it’s independence and Ms Kallas is deeply suspicious of Putin and his…
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Continue reading →: Standing room only
I am sitting in a bar that is rapidly filling to capacity to watch the Ireland vs France rugby match. I got here early to bag a seat.. The crowd here has high hopes of Ireland’s third Six Nations championship on the trot. I have got a comfort bet on…
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