Update

As predicted, met up with Greybeard and Sara Jane last night. (Don't let him fool ya, the beard is mostly red.) Went to The Pasta House (a local pasta place) and was introduced to one of the main dishes in the gods' buffet. Rigatoni Alla Carbonara! Quote: "With cream, butter, crisp bacon and tossed with egg and fresh parmigiano cheese." Dear God it was rich, creamy, and just chock-a-block full of bacony goodness. If you're ever near St Louis, check this chain out. Good Eats, as Alton would say.
Headed for Okie City when we get on the road. The Jeep transmission has been acting weirdly, so we'll play it by ear. I'll post again 500+ miles down the road.