Aamos! We moved to Florence in late 1998 so I could take a job at Smith (alma mater). Even though I stepped down in 2004 to join some former colleagues at an educational fundrasing consulting firm, our love for the area remains steadfast and we stayed (my father is 4th generation Springfield, so it’s all familiar). If I described my running routes in my postings, you would likely recognize the terrain well! My favorite loops take me out into Westhampton, Hatfield or up into Huntington. It will be great to meet you in April and compare notes. I have also noted your references to Red Sox Nation. It’s more than a pride thing to be sure. I admire you from afar anyway for your ability to throw down serial 3:20-3:40 marathons. Fabulous. CNYrunner

We must know some of the same people. I used to work with Catherine Kaye Cooper, a Smith alum who lives in Noho--her husband is one of the Coopers' Corners owners. Say, where the heck is btb? I'm going over to the daily to call him out!

Here's the deal. There is a thread on the kickrunner's forum that I was made aware of, where a gathering for the trials was being planned. Not wanting to step on anyone's toes, I wasn't sure if I should go ahead with my plans or not, thus my hesitation in posting here again. The invite to come before/after the trials to where I'm staying is of course opened to anyone. If it is decided that meeting at the other location is preferred, then let's do that. The point is to get everyone together, regardless of the meeting location. If we do end up at my place, I need to make some disclaimers though, just so everyone has the right impression. The place I'm staying at is small, probably not much bigger than Henry and Marj's living room, so it'll be cozy! It's in an apartment building in a residential area, so the gathering has to be kept low key. As much as I'd love to throw an awesome spread out for everyone like Henry and Marj have so graciously done in the past, it just isn't possible where I am. I will gladly provide bagels and coffee and juice for everyone, and a place to gather for everyone to meet and chat, but can't go much beyond that. Anyone is welcome to bring whatever they want, just keep in mind that space will be limited. If it gets too crowded or if people would rather go somewhere for a bite to eat or whatever afterwards, we could discuss it at the gathering. It would be an honor and a pleasure to host this for everyone, if that's what is decided. If yes, BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair!)

Size is not an issue. We're a friendly crowd and not obese. As long as we get together, that 's the main thing.

I'm just sort of sitting back and waiting for all the plans to be laid, and then I'll figure out which ones we can get to. DH and I are arriving Saturday afternoon, staying at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, which is apparently near the finish line. We won't have a car though, and don't know anything about Boston, so we will be figuring it out as we go. I'm afraid I don't know the details about the Olympic trials. Is that Sunday morning? To be honest, my non-running husband may be more interested in sightseeing than watching more running stuff. He's been talking about some sort of duck tour (?)... At any rate, I definitely want to meet up with Master-Boomers. What about dinner plans? And when is the parking lot keg party?

How far is Somerville from where we will be? What about after the race? Will there be any meet-up possibilities Monday evening (when we can drink more liberally)?

Holly, Somerville is about a 15 min drive from where you are staying. I know, because I live in lovely Somerville. I may be able to come pick some folks up and do a little shuttling, if you'd like. I don't have a huge car, but some of you teeny folks might have bottoms small enough to fit into my DS's booster seat. Looking forward to it! --Robin

i live about 30 minutes north of boston - i'll be around by sunday afternoon if i can help out with a car as well - i'm going to a church retreat from thurs eve til sunday morning but then i'm devoted to the marathon...........i'll be volunteering in the medical tent all day during the marathon. holly - maggiano's is right across the street from the boston park plaza - if you love italian food that's a great place in walking distance!!