A Tale of Two Bostons

Spring 2015. It was a tale of two Bostons, and both were the best of times for us.

The country mice returned to the big city last weekend, for a taste of all it has to offer. We experienced the serene and beautiful Boston, in the museums and the parks.

George Washington

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Old and new

Fountain

Weathervane–Boston MFA

Hokusai–Boston MFA

Hokusai–Boston MFA

Navajo weaving–Boston MFA

Gordon Parks photography–Boston MFA

DaVinci, drawing on linen–Boston MFA

DaVinci–Boston MFA

Hurdy-gurdy man

Swan boats

And we experienced the transcendent Boston, full of inspiration and joy, in watching the running of the Boston Marathon.

Two years ago, the Boston and its marathon experienced the worst of times. The city was devastated by a bombing and its aftermath that killed four and injured hundreds, many gravely.

Now, and probably always, the Boston Marathon is much more than a race of 26.2 miles. It’s a statement—by the runners, the spectators, the merchants, the city—that Boston is stronger than hate and fear and violence.

Patriot’s Day equals . . .

. . . Marathon Day

Spectators are important, too

In a bar

First responders from 2013

Blessing of the Athletes

5K racers cross the same finish line

Almost finished!

Wheelchair racers

College kids greeting military racers

Elite women leaders

Team effort

Inspiration abounds

Elite men leaders

They did it!

A special brew for a special distance

In addition to being inspired by the thousands of runners of all ages and abilities, we had the special fun of watching a friend run her first Boston marathon to fulfill a longtime dream. She achieved a personal best time in the race, as did her training partner!

A busy weekend, a full weekend, an inspirational weekend, and, above all, a joyous weekend. The best of times . . .