Yes, I’ve lived in OK all my life, SE OK since ‘74 when my dad retired from the Army. I would not like living in Central or Western OK. Much too flat and no trees to speak of.
I have travelled to most of our contiguous states on purpose. I still lack the Dakotas and Michigan. I like visiting other places and seeing things I’ve read about. I also like visiting with the people from other states. I’m different from my wife in that respect. I’ll strike up a conversation with a willing stranger anytime I can wherever I am. I also have relatives all over the US and a couple of places in Europe. I say that to say this: When I say things like, “I’d rather live here than anywhere else,” it isn’t a statement completely born of ignorance.
What do I like about here? Cost of living is low, regulation is minimal, I’m just far enough from civilization to be comfortable but in 25 minutes I can be in a town with a few restaurants, a Walmart which I try to avoid, a very nice grocery store, a locally owned store on par with Lowe’s and a small hospital and then I can be at a superior heart and stroke hospital in 50 minutes. Also my own Choctaw tribal hospital is 25 minutes in the other direction, so my physical needs are well met.
My hobbies can be participated in here for minimal cost, I love the people here…I mean we have our share of nuts but for the most part folks here are friendly and nice and will step up and help anyone if needed.
The biggest tell for me is that no matter where I visit, conservative state or liberal, two weeks is my limit. I’m ready to get back home. Not necessarily to just the comforts of my house but back home to my people. Yes, I’m very happy here. There are probably other states where I could be happy but I think I’ll stay here a few more years.
You write a great travelogue for the beauties of home. I feel the same way about where we live as well. It's good to be home, eh?

