Carmen's Guidebook

Walk or bike to the corner of 23th Street and Oak Ave. (this is to the left of the house if you are coming from it) Make a right at the corner. The gate to enter the trail is at the end of the short block on 23th Street. I recommend to do either of these two things to come back home: 1) turn around at the end of the trail and exit through the same gate you came in, and 2) make a left at the end of the trail on East Railroad Street, and make another left on Oak Avenue. I strongly advice you to keep on the trail and not to wander off any other exit you see. Neighbors privacy, you see.

Our area is known for the quick rain showers that come to refresh the air. Bring big umbrellas and carry them with you in your car in case of heavy rain.

Let's walk to the beach! 1) From home, walk to the railroad. This is Railroad Street 2) Then, either make a left or a right. 3) If you make a left, walk towards Texas Ave. Make a right on Texas (you can see the beach from here) 4) If you make a right on Railroad Street, walk to Hewes Ave and make a left. Cross over the railroad, keep walking on Hewes Ave. until you get to the white sand.

We, humans, and snakes share the planet. Copperheads and Black racers live in this area of the South. You'll probably never see one because they generally avoid us. They are occupied minding their own business hunting small creatures or socializing with their own peeps, but they will defend themselves if they feel attacked, like when we step on them or rudely wake them up from their nap. Be wise and avoid walking barefoot or with open sandals on the grass or among vegetation, particularly at night. Remember that this is Mississippi, and wild life does happen.

Not all the fins you see in our waters are attached to dolphins. Be safe and do your best to avoid swimming at dawn or dusk. The fresh water also has wild life you must be aware of and try to avoid. Be wise.

You will need sunscreen constantly.

Mosquitoes and other flying creatures can be a nuissance. Be prepared.

I cannot stress enough the importance of carrying plenty of water at all times for you to drink. I add a couple of grains of salt to my bottles of water so I can have my electrolites. Our heat can make you pass out if you are not properly hydrated.