DC area - meeting up with hip friends who are furthering their higher education in areas like French literature and religion.Semi-rural NC - Hearing, once again, the sweet cadence of a southern accent uttering grammatical wonders like "It got gone," and "It don't matter."

DC area - urban types enjoying a relaxing weekend away from the city. Semi-rural NC - rural types proclaiming that Chapel Hill is just "too damn big."

DC area - discussions regarding the somewhat warped mindset of Evangelical Christians who believe the Rapture is coming and everyone, besides themselves of course, is screwed. Semi-rural NC - I could probably be saved right here in my office. If I really wanted to.

DC area - culture. Semi-rural NC - the Chicken Festival.