The things I thrive on

Published: Sunday, February 28, 2010

Updated: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 20:07

The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Pub on the grounds was inspired by the pub of the same name that sits at the bottom of Nottingham Castle in the real Nottingham. According to Todd and Appling, crusaders would meet at a pub in that spot before making their journey to the Holy Land.

Last weekend, I remembered why I love working for The Batt. I am a nerd, and I love dressing up and going to renaissance festivals; and last Sunday I had the chance to meet former students George Appling and Eric Todd on the grounds of Sherwood Forest Faire, the festival they have founded, which opened Saturday. These men are truly impressive; Todd also started the downtown Bryan economic development movement, and Appling travels the world as a consultant in the firm Booz & Co., the original consulting firm.

Once we had made introductions after my arrival, Appling immediately said, "Well, let's take a tour." I was thrilled.

Walking around I was once again impressed. Considering this is the fair's inaugural season, I was surprised to see all the constructed buildings on the site. Todd said more than half of those buildings had sprung up since December.

The fair was originally Todd's endeavor, inspired by a trip to England twenty-two years ago. The tale of Robin Hood was chosen as the theme for the fair because of Todd's own adventures in Nottingham. And the setting is believable; the grounds are just barely off 290 but once in the village, you wouldn't know it. I really enjoyed walking around them that day, enjoying the sunshine, the smell of cedar, talking about history and books and where to find the best costume; but now I can't wait to see the finished product, to see Todd and Appling successful at achieving a dream. And like most Aggies, they're doing it right.