Did you know that Bush is popular in Syria? Popular in a good way, I mean? Oh yes. It’s true. Of course, that is only if you are talking to a Kurd, of which there are many - at least there seem to be. It’s funny, though. As soon as they find out I’m American, they bust out with a smile and say something about Bush, giving him a thumbs up.

Speaking of thumbs up, if you can’t get enough of building exteriors looking earth toned, Aleppo is the place for you. Home Depot’s paint department would not do well ’round these parts.

Oh, and can I get an “amen” that Ramadan is almost over! No more cowering in the corner to snack on something so as not to offend anyone. But seriously, it wasn’t all bad. At least I got to look at earth-toned walls while I chowed down.