AHAHAHAHAHA!
So, yah- my project slipped by weeks and then also the planning was horrific and didn't include enough resources or time.
End result is that I will be in the UK this weekend- my fifth week away from home.
I haven't actually had a weekend off in the last three, though, so I'm still not certain whether I can make it to the meet.
The probability *is* growing.

I'm working in Earby, Lancs (1hr north of Manchester) and Cambridge is going to be quite a drive. If anyone has some extra floorspace for a lost Yank I'd much appreciate it... if this works out... I'm always such an optimist!