Before going on my bike ride, I spent some time with sprite at the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. Held at the Howard County Fairgrounds, this is a large, all-encompassing celebration of wool, sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and rabbits. The crowd noise was interpsersed by the plaintive “baa” of a sheep about every second. I saw some folks I know from Connecticut, which was cool, and my allergies managed to behave while I was out.

sprite bought some lovely wool and some size 35 needles (hand-made from poplar) that could double as circus tent stakes. She also bought a wool felt ball for the cats, which has been well-received. All told, a great trip.