where i like to relax

I never realized it before but Montclair is kind of my go-to place for relaxing. I brought my cousin Jason over there today because I wanted to pick up something and I ended up pointing out to him all my favorite places. Urban Outfitters, Esthetica Salon, Montclair Nails, Cuban Pete’s, Culture Couture, etc. And then we ended up finding a few new places: one of those old school bookstores like Strand, a skateboard shop and a little jewelry boutique. And as we were walking around, he was kind of awed by the area as it was his first time there (it is rather Soho-esque) and he semi-jokingly said that I have a second life. Which cracked me up. His description is a bit extreme but you know, every time I do want to unwind, I just drive to that little area. There have been countless times when I would just get into my car on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, all by my lonesome and treat myself to a bit of shopping, a mani/pedi or both. Maybe that sounds a little sad in retrospect but you know, sometimes I just don’t want to wait for other people to see if they’re free or if they want to hang out with me. It’s like.. I need to get out right this minute and get my mind off of whatever. Okay, go! I just want to clear my head, you know?

Still, it was nice to share my favorite little spot with my cousin today. As much as I enjoy going out there on my own, it really is a lot nicer going to your favorite place with your favorite people.