In the "Green Zone"

Evan was unexpectedly whisked by Blackhawk helicopter from his rural digs to busy downtown Baghdad-- the green zone. The ride, at 500 ft., was spectacular, and he was especially impressed with the aerial view of Saddam's notorious crossed swords monument. He sent an email from an Internet cafe "set up in an old palace. It's a mind-blowing building. Huge vaulted ceilings, intricate stone carvings and chandeliers everywhere." Ever the curious tourist, he hopes to visit the crossed swords monument and take a few souvenir snapshots. Maybe he'll buy me a T-shirt.