southern pines

the lizard of the Indies

Thanks to this sign, I now know the origins of the word alligator. Further research reveals that the full name that the Spanish explorers gave them was "el lagarto de Indies" which translates as "the lizard of the Indies".

Cypress Swamp

This Cypress Swamp was a real highlight, with water as black as oil.

West Florida

If anyone wasn't clear on the old West Florida boundaries, this should help. Essentially what you need to know is that there is a little bit of Florida in Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Natchez Trace

Much of the trip consisted of driving down the Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic route going back to Indian times, now managed by the National Park Service. Below, the Ross Barnett Reservoir. Did I mention it was overcast?

Cups

We went to the coffee house known as Cups in Clinton, Mississippi.

Mississippi road trip

Sometimes you kick off the new year with a Mississippi road trip.