My last days

Back in NYC for my last days before heading back home, I spent  my time wandering around the various shopping areas that surround the neighbourhood.
It was a West Indian neighbourhood, and therefore many of the stores were operated by Caribbean immigrants.
Even though I was in NY, I was still immersed in a Caribbean setting with the island dialect, familiar foods and styles.

One Trini (short for Trinidadian) store-owner, even teased me whether I came into his store to buy flying fish (don't get me started on that story *)...I laughed and gave him a playful punch and left, since his store prices were not suited to my pocket anyway.

My friends had told me that they purchase their "home away from home" staples from the Paro store. Now at home, "paro" refers to a crack head, someone who is addicted to drugs. I thought they were pulling my leg about the Paro store, but here it is...
(not a very good photo I admit, but you believe me, don't you?)
The store is named after the owner, whose surname happens to be Paro.

The Paro West Indian Market

Since both of my friends were on call with work that weekend, we had to cancel our plans to visit Atlantic City.....what a bummer.
However,  I headed out to Jersey with my good friend Carl to collect some packages I had pre-ordered/shipped to his apartment.
We took the bus from the Port Authority station, and traveled the short scenic ride over to West New York,  New Jersey.
The scenery took my breath away...The NYC skyline was fantastic.

 

Even at night, the skyline was beautiful in the rain.... 

taken from the moving bus heading back  over to NYC.

Driving back to NYC through the tunnel at night.....from inside the bus.

New Jersey home with a welcoming floral display.

Entered a minimart to purchase a few eats....only my friend would frequent a minimart that sells these.......Naked juices.

After an enjoyable day, we headed back  to my home away from home....situated on a shady tree-lined street......

......where there is a Veteran's Home across the street with everyday comical activity......the "stories" and "threats" that those guys loudly voiced to each other will never leave me......I have been scarred for life.

Halloween is on its way........ pumpkin photos are in order

Very CUTE painted Halloween pumpkins I saw on the street.

Marijuana at-home drug test

 
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this.....only in NYC.

Time sure does go by fast when you're having fun doesn't it?
It was time to get my packing done, and have one last celebratory dinner with my friends. There's nothing like having a fun-filled evening staying in, chowing down and watching a good movie.
What an incredible visit it had been.
Last time I was labelled a "Celebrity" because I passed through NY on my way to visit friends out west. This time was no different, the time spent could have been longer.   I was still being hailed as a "Celebrity", since the visit was so short in everyone's eyes.  Can't please 'em all, can we?


(*) Read the details here and here and here.