Leaving the smoking remains of Kansas behind, I crossed over into Oklahoma. If you have ever traveled up or down Interstate 35 through this part of the country, you have probably noticed that Oklahoma is a exceedingly flat place and it has really terrific gas prices. I always make a point to fill up my car with as much cheap Oklahoma gas as possible.

For me, the journey from Kansas City to Dallas along I-35 is a pretty familiar one. Driving the Oklahoma stretch, I often take comfort in the adorable teepee designs at the roadside rest stops. They're a nice touch.

As for Oklahoma City, which is neatly positioned in the center of the state, that too has been a site of frequent visits. In recent years, I have mostly passed straight through the city, sometimes stopping at a local Chili's restaurant for take out. In the distant past, my parents would bring me here on a regular basis for allergy tests at a well-known clinic. During our stay, would always attend the Oklahoma state fair or visit an amusement park called Frontier City. As with most theme parks, Frontier City has expanded to the point that it barely resembles the place I once knew. Driving by, however, it still generates a heavy dose of affection.