2013 Maryland Sheep and Wool: Day 1

I could only make myself stay asleep for a few hours the night before we left. When the alarm went off at 6, I was already wide awake and ready to go. The first stop has always been to the bank. This is worth noting because it is the last time I will be able to make my ritual withdrawal the morning of. This bank is closing in June. From now on, I will have to drive to the other side of the county to get a fist full of my hard earned cash. Boo

It takes us about an hour and a half to get there so while The Mister drove, I worked on the Lillehammer. I think I am heading for a train wreck with this sleeve but for now I am keeping calm and knitting on.

Arriving at exactly 9, we hit traffic. Lots of traffic. It took forever to get up Rt. 32 and into the parking area. As I made my way through the crowd, I just knew all the good fleeces would be gone by the time I got there.

There was even a long line just to get into the fleece sale. I have never seen it so crowded. Working together, The Mister and I quickly found a Merino fleece and a Merino X fleece that I could afford and I got in line to pay. I had a great time trading fleece washing stories with the people in line with me. Fleece buyers are always the nicest people to get stuck in a long line with.

 I know I said I wouldn't be bringing any home this year but I decided that I could spend $100-no more. I got two fleeces for that-8 pounds each so I am betting the quality is not the best on either but I don't care. I've got something new to wash for the summer and I couldn't be more tickled with them.

 We hauled those fleeces all the way back to the car and then walked all the way back and started at one end and shopped until we couldn't shop anymore. We collapsed at the sheep dog show to rest.

The weather was perfect, cool and sunny. I was cold sitting in the shade.

Almost too cold for a root beer snow cone but not quite.

 I ate my snow cone while walking through the sheep sheds. Since I had spent lots of money buying Merino products this year, I went looking for some to photograph. These lovely critters, in their snug little coats, were happy to oblige.

Knowing that I was coming back tomorrow, I was willing to call it a day around 3 o'clock. I was beat but not broke. I should be able to bring home some goodies tomorrow.

 I found my orange roving and began to spin next year's shawl on the long ride home. It's a pretty Merino/Silk blend that I found in all places at the American Cormo Association.

 I waved a sad goodbye as we whizzed by on Rt 70. I knew I was coming back in the morning but I still hate to leave.

Back at home I took a mug shot of all the day's goodies out on the deck. I will have a detailed post later when I can think straight. Right now I need a bath and a good night's sleep.