Today, my son Jay and I walked around Hampstead Heath, one of London's great parks and arguably its wildest bit of green space. As of Friday, London has seen sun and blue skies and for Londoners that means GET OUTSIDE.

One of the many things that surprises the relative newcomer is the London custom of exploiting any bit of sun -- no matter how cold it is. On a clear yet chilly day, you'll see people sitting at outdoor tables drinking coffee or having a beer because it's not raining. Today was no exception.

Apologies again to those who read this for my lengthy absence -- I'm still working very hard. But I do have another tidbit.

Today, a couple of London Fire Brigade fire engines stopped outside King's Cross Station, where I was waiting for the bus to work. It didn't appear to be a major situation -- only a few firefighters got out of the truck and they were in no great hurry.

I looked inside the cab of the fire engine closest to me (in case you're wondering, they're red) and I noticed a book: "Master Atlas of Greater London."

London's streets are so byzantine, even the firefighters need a street guide.