SD,
I just ran AAA's Map 'n' Go directions:
The route it shows would have you taking:
1. I-29 South to Nebraska City, exit 10
2. Iowa 2/Nebraska 2 to US 75
3. US 75 South to Topeka (While in Topeka wave to Saul !)
4. I-70 West to I-470 South to I-335 South (Kansas Turnpike)
5. I-335 South to Emporia
6. I-35 South to Wichita (via Kansas Turnpike)
7. Stop at Mrs. Dave's Family Xmas party of death/sorrow
8. US 54 West to Meade.
Good luck ! Thursday is not going to be the most easy travel day...
