1 Apr 2014 Amarillo to Oklahoma City

 The drive from Amarillo to Oklahoma City is generally not too interesting, and this time was no exception.  There were, however, a couple of unusual things along the way.  The first was this derailment of a train from tracks paralleling I-40.   

Who needs to go to Italy to see a leaning tower?  Here you have the leaning tower of Britten.  We wondered if this was due to a wind event, or unsound footing on one side.

Much of I-40 parallels old Route 66.  To the right is the venerable, old, cracked, and indifferently patched Historic Route 66. We were pleased to be traveling on our smooth, fast road.

We made it to Oklahoma City early enough in the afternoon to avoid the evening rush hour.

The capitol of Oklahoma is in Oklahoma City.  A major part of the state's legacy is to the right of the capitol building here.  It is the only state capital with working oil wells on the grounds.

Every town seems to have its well-kept secret neighborhood.  In Oklahoma City, it is The Plaza.  This is a once rundown area that has been adopted by a younger, more hip generation and is being brought back to life.  Perhaps this book box gives an indication of the type of area.  You want a book, take one.  Just complete a book, leave it here for someone else to enjoy.

Ted's cousins. Larry and Michelle took us to "The Mule", a restaurant in this district.  It features gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches that contain such diverse fillings as macaroni and cheese, pulled pork, and Korean barbecue.  It also has an extensive list of beers that will suit any taste.  If you're curious, here's a link: The Mule.  That's one of the owers, John, in the background, who just happens to be Michelle's nephew .  This is now on the list of our new favorite places. Note the map of Oklahoma on the wall.

Despite having lived in Oklahoma for fourteen years of his life, Ted had never been in downtown Oklahoma City.  It is a pretty town, another one of those well-kept secrets in the Midwest.  There are many similarities to Portland, OR.  The warehouse district has been transformed into an hopping, upscale shopping and living area similar to The Pearl in Portland.  There are formerly run-down neighborhoods that are being revived into destinations. The city is preparing for a commuter train. It has an enthusiastic fan base for their NBA team.  And, the cultural side of the city is thriving,