If the gathering were every year, it would probably give more people a chance to attend, especially with the different locations.
If money had been different and easy child had not broken her leg, I'd have found a way to this years chicago gathering.....I could've bussed it if necessary. Bus runs from cincy or dayton to chicago. Of course that also killed the SC one for me too, darn it.
If given enough warning......I might be able to make plans, little money or not, as easy child is now super interested in meeting her board aunties. lol
But with all of them there are going to be those who can't attend for whatever reason, not just funds, because sometimes life gets in the way.