The showcase event this year is a variety of textile demonstrations by the Society for Creative Anachronism, whose members will "bring to life the world of the Middle Ages and Renaissance" with such events as nalbinding and fingerloop braiding, according to the program.
There are also many opportunities for all ages to learn techniques and to make crafts of all kinds, including spinning, knitting, beading and weaving.
Bauer's three children -- Danielle, 16, Andy, 12, and Jackie, 10 -- have grown up with the festival, just as she did. They all assist their mother, who acknowledged that she "runs around like a chicken with its head cut off on festival days," but also enjoy the fair programming. Her daughters have a market sheep this year that they will sell.
"We told the girls not to name their sheep and get close to them since they're sold for meat, but they did anyway -- Smokey and Bandit," she said, after the 1977 Burt Reynolds-Sally Field movie that the family has watched many times.
"What can I say? We're just a bunch of rednecks who love living in the country and helping out at the Sheep and Wool Festival," Bauer said with a laugh.
"In this day and age, where everything is go-go-go, it is time well-spent with your family. I can't imagine a year without it."
jholzberg76@msn.com
MARYLAND SHEEP AND WOOL FESTIVAL
What: The 35th annual event, sponsored by the Maryland Sheep Breeders Association. Free parking and admission. Open to the public. No pets allowed.
When: Tomorrow, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Howard County Fairgrounds, 2210 Fairgrounds Road, West Friendship.
Programs: 270 vendors from around the world, working sheepdog demonstrations, sheep shearing, craft classes, live music, textile demonstrations by the Society for Creative Anachronism, and much more. A variety of lamb dishes will be served. Informa- tion: www.sheepandwool.org.
