The Manrilla Blog | Life. Art. Religion. Culture.

I’m in D.C. this weekend on a top-secret mission for Manrilla.net. Okay, not that’s not the case. I’m away on pleasure. I just completed my third week at work and decided to skip town for the weekend. My back was out of wack this morning – I almost thought that I might not make it due to back complications. But eight 200mg pills of Motrin later (including liver damage, most likely), I was on the road, if only a little worse for the wear.

I made it out to the airport at 12:30. I picked up the car without any hassles and headed back into town to grab a bite, a few supplies and then I was off. The ride down was cool. There were only a couple of trouble spots in terms of traffic. As I made it into the District area the radio changed up. There was a dj on who was spinning old school hip-hop and mixing as well. His selections were great and I was bobbing in and out of lanes with a smile on my face as I navigated 395-South. Biz Markie. Big Daddy Kane, Eric B and Rakim. There were many others and I was grinning as by hearing these songs, it took me back to a time when I was young and life was simple and rap music was good. I don’t know who the dj was or even the radio station but I will say thanks. It was really good stuff (Trace, it reminded me of The Wizard on WJLB!!).

I had a really nice dinner in Arlington. I had the chance to make some new friends and acquaintances. I’ll be back in Philly on Saturday night or Sunday morning – my cousin’s coming to town (I’m excited to see you, Karen!). And of course, there’s the new Harry Potter movie. Gotta check that one out.

Saturday night was a great night. Just one of those quiet nights when a few things are just right and you’re satiated with pot-pie (the pot-pie was damned good!!). I slept like a champ for the first time in quite a while. Thanks to all for their warm hospitality. You know how to make a man feel at home (feed him and rub his belly when he’s full).

Sunday was the icing on the cake. My cousin Karen’s in town. It’s already been a year since I’d seen her last. She is simply one of the most fascinating people I know (and she’s my cousin to boot). She’s very smart and compassionate. We have great talks about Buddhism and religion and all kinds of stuff. I’m just sorry your trip had to be so short. I promise to come and visit.

So that was my weekend. More enjoyable than it should have been allowed to be. I will now fade off to La-La Land, happily wrapped in the blanket of half-envisioned memories. Ciao.