I'm really excited. I lived in Springfield from 1973-1985, and even though I now live where I grew up, I still consider Springfield home and am looking forward to seeing all the changes.

Staying at the State House Inn and going to both Presidential Library and the State Library. I used to live 3 blocks from the State Library and went there often. Not sure which one I'm more excited to see.

I really am looking forward to getting a couple Mel-O-Cream donuts, a few Pease's chocolates, a horseshoe and maybe a Gabatoni's pizza if there is any room left.

I'm going to look, but think I read Wayne's Red Coach closed. Wow, I sent everyone I knew that was going to Springfield to eat there. Had the best authentic original versions of horseshoes. If anyone knows anything about it or if the original recipe is served elsewhere, please let me know. I'm not interested in white cheese, or fancier versions, just the good old yellow welsh rarebit version.

Thanks in advance. I'll try to be back with a report and take some pictures that aren't on tripadvisor yet.

Rita