Five Things Every New Oklahoman Should Know Before Settling In

Whether you've noticed it yet or not, Oklahoma is growing. Albeit slowly, but growth is growth. Texans make up the majority of Okie transplants, but in a shocking turn of events, California comes in second. Given how Oklahomans view California, and vice versa, it seems pretty weird from the outside looking in. Colorado came in a distant third place.

Now, Oklahoma has always been a pretty welcoming state. We're ranked at the top of just about every "Polite States" list, but I think it's more of that old-fashioned curious neighbors collecting good gossip sort of thing. Just small town things.

If you're new to the Sooner State, welcome. Enjoy the cheap cost of living and slower pace of life. If you haven't picked a football team yet, you can opt for the OU Sooners or join the loyal and true OSU Cowboys. We all root for the Thunder and against Texas in, well, everything. It's all harmless fun and camaraderie, but there are some other things you should know up front so it doesn't surprise you in the first go-round.

First, tornado season isn't as terrifying as Hollywood makes it look. We don't spend all spring hiding in storm shelters. And for the very few people who have to duck into a shelter, it's something that only lasts a few minutes. When the sky turns dark and ominous, you'll find most of us standing in the driveway. It's normal.

Second, learn the difference between "fixin' to" and "might." They're completely different levels of commitment.

If you "might," you're not. But if you're "fixin' to," you're just waiting for your moment to act. State law.

Milk and Bread

Third, don't be surprised if someone tells you Braum's has the best burgers in town. They're both wrong and right in saying it. Braum's has a weird relationship with our state. Like most restaurants, sometimes it's really good, and other times not so much... But it's ours, and every true Oklahoman will defend it.

One thing we won't argue is, yes, Braum's fast food restaurant is the best grocery store in every community. That is a hill we will die on.

Fourth, if somebody tells you, "Don't California my Oklahoma," don't panic. It's less of an official state law and more of an Oklahoma way of saying, "We kinda like things the way they are." You'll hear it eventually. Try not to take it a wrong way.

And finally, we wave.

That's not an understated reassurance that we're polite. We actually wave at each other outside the cities. Not like Ponca City or Chickasha small, think rural towns. Single-stoplight destinations.

Doesn't matter if you know them or not, nobody in small-town Oklahoma is a stranger.

On that note, I wouldn't recommend waving in the cities. You're likely to get a single-finger salute in return, gentle misunderstandings.

Welcome to Oklahoma. You'll fit in just fine. If you haven't seen Twister or Twisters yet, do so. If you have, watch them again.