Awesome Crochet Blog Award

Back around Christmas we, Bridge and Beyond received this nice award from Kathryn from Crochet Concupiscence. I was so busy photographing, posting, and counting all your wonderful donations I forgot about it. My apologize. Am happy and honored to share it with you all now. After all, it's a team effort; one in which you all are a part. We are a group of like minded individuals who want to give through our craft; be it knitting or crocheting.

As I was doing some blog walking, and found myself (as I often do), on Sandie in Louisiana's blog, I was reminded of this nice honor. She too was awarded this for her efforts. Another lady, Sue, whom I don't know; but know of her group SIBOL was also so awarded. There are so many wonderful charities and so many good people helping, I do indeed want to thank Kathryn.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 56
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 3
Mittens: 13
Squares: 19
Socks: 3
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Gear up folks, February is Slipper Month. Size, color requirements and patterns can be found by clicking on the Slipper Tab.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Nice Warm Hats for Homeless

Thank you Sandie in Louisiana once again. These hats are crocheted from the pattern Sandie has on her blog. As you can see they are sized nicely for men, nice thick, warm. Please check out her Pattern HERE and on the hat tab across the top of the blog. I love the nice brim for added warmth across ones ears.......plus, it can be pulled down if need be making the hat cover some more cold areas.

Great colors, and as always so nicely made. Many thanks Sandie! Keep up the good work.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 54+2=56
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 3
Mittens: 13
Squares: 19
Socks: 3
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Gear up folks, February is Slipper Month. Size, color requirements and patterns can be found by clicking on the Slipper Tab.


Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Knitted Hats Warm Homeless

These 5 knitted hats were donated by our friend Trudy S. from Maryland. I love how stretchy these ribbed hats are; that's so helpful to fit a variety of sized heads. They fit me, which means they'll fit most kids---I have a small head for an adult. They sorta fit my husband too, and he's at the other end of spectrum. He has a large head, on him the hats don't cover the ears, comes just above ears....there's lots of sizes inbetween. Trudy, could you share your hat pattern? Love to add this versatile hat pattern to our hat tab on the top of the blog.

Actually would love to make these style but a bit larger too if you could tell me how many you cast on etc. Is your ribbing 3 x 3 or perhaps 4 x 4? Can this hat be done without using DP's?

2012 Donations:
Hats: 49+5=54
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 3
Mittens: 13
Squares: 19
Socks: 3
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

**Mitten Month is about to come to an end folks, but remember we need and collect mittens all year long. We'll be swinging into February who's focus is SLIPPERS. Please read details and check out some patterns by clicking on the Slipper tab on the top of the blog.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Beautiful Blanket from Bunny

Such pretty colors! This blanket is perfect for a sweet little boy or girl to cuddle with. Bunny (Lynda G), crocheted this using lots of different colors. All children love to have a blanket/afghan of their own and besides giving them physical warmth, how perfect to help a child adjust to his or her new surroundings. These family's have been through a difficult time, losing their home, being homeless, living a while in a temporary housing situation..........so when they make the transition into permanent housing...it's a big deal. Our Project "Welcome Home" afghans serve as a congratulations and best of luck to these families. This cute little blanket will indeed give comfort to a child as they make the move. Though the moving is exciting, it's probably also scarey...after all, these families have been here there and everywhere, the children surely feel unsettled. Our afghans help in many ways.

Thank you Bunny, and please keep up the good work. Bunny and I have known each other a good many years now thanks to the internet. We worked together in a group to benefit survivors of Katrina. It's wonderful to have your ongoing support and skillful hands, and friendship.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 49
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 2+1=3
Mittens: 13
Squares: 19
Socks: 3
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Big Variety Donated

Thank you Jeannette for this variety pack. She's donated crocheted squares (19), 3 pair of socks, a fleece blanket, and hats. Some of the hats are crocheted and some are fleece.

Remember one of our goals this year is identifying where everyone is from. Please check the lists for your name and see if a state is listed. There are many that are missing. Let's get your state listed with your name and make sure it's on the map.

2012 Donations:

Hats: 41+8=49
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 1+1=2
Mittens: 13
Squares: 19
Socks: 3
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

**Reminder folks to please, please put a note with your donations so I know who you are and am able to contact you via email to let you know your donations have arrived. Please include a note, even if you want to be anonymous on the blog. I need to know for record keeping.**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Mittens for Mitten Month

Mittens, Mittens, and more. Thank you Annemarie from New York, lots of chap sticks (24), and mittens ( 4 crocheted). I'm a person that can't go anywhere without chapstick, and I'm in doors. I'm not living outside in the elements like so many of our homeless. Chapsticks are a wonderful addition to personal care items. Glove/Mittens of varying sizes to fit those cold men and women living outside will be so very much appreciated Annemarie.

Have you read all the new tabs here on the blog? Please do. Color, and size requirements as well as some patterns for you.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 41
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 1
Mittens: 13
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

**Reminder folks to please, please put a note with your donations so I know who you are and am able to contact you via email to let you know your donations have arrived. Please include a note, even if you want to be anonymous on the blog. I need to know for record keeping.**

Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Got Brown, I'm in Love

I love, Got Brown. I really enjoyed watching this afghan come together. It's traditional, because it's made from granny squares. It's fun, funky, and modern because it's not colors you see together in granny squares often. There's a mix of squares in that some are solid some aren't. It's 64inches by 62...well, before blocked that is. Probably a little larger and more squared up afterwards. It's drying here.

The squares were crocheted by our friend Liz (minnisoda on The Ville), who's been a wonderful supporter here on Bridge and Beyond. Many many thanks Liz. I added 2 full rows of double crochet to each square in black, joined in black using the join as you go method, and added 2 rows of sc for the border. This ghan will be donated through our Project Welcome Home. (you can read details by clicking on the badge in the right sidebar).

I have a challenge for you all today. Please visit and comment on the following 2 blog posts. They happen to be a couple without comments and I'd like to change that. Remember, you do not need to be a blogger to leave a comment. Type your comment, click the drop down box and select name and url and leave url empty if you don't have a blog. Everyone appreciates comments on their creations and spending time on the blog, reading and posting comments helps the blog. Soooooo, please; though I know many of you visit I want to encourage you All to leave comments.
post #1
post #2
post #3

2012 Donations:
Hats: 41
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 1
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hats warm Homeless Heads

Thank you Louise, as always your knitted hats are adorable, pretty, super soft, and soooooooo well made. 3 more heads will be warm because of your continued support. We appreciate your donation and hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

Folks I want to encourage you all (bloggers and non bloggers) to leave comments on the blog. Comments help the blog with search engine optimization and everyone who knits or crochets and donates appreciates nice comments on their lovely work. If you're not a blogger, simply type your comment, click the drop down box and select name and url. Leave the url space empty. Please refrain from using anonymous. Anonymous often ends up in the spam folder and it doesn't tell us who you were or that you visited.

Just a little over a week left in January's focus of mittens. But, remember we need and collect mittens all year long. Check the working calendar tab for next month's focus.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 38+3=41
Scarves: 5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donating warmth and Hope for those in Need

Thank you Sandie in Louisiana for your crocheted scarf, 2 hats, and pair of wrist warmers (fingerless mitts). I keep seeing the fingerless/writs warmer words being used interchangeably. I really don't know if one is more correct. Sandie's work is always so nicely made. You might or might know she took a Master's Class and has taught crochet. AND, she's a published author. She's a mother and a wife..........a very busy lady with a big heart. She's been with us from the beginning and I'm always so appreciative of her donations and her friendship.

Sandie's has patterns on her page and while these hats aren't exactly the ones made from the pattern I have posted here under the hat tab, they are very close. Check it out. Thanks Sandie

2012 Donations:
Hats: 36+2=38
Scarves: 4+1=5
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Please read all details regarding size, color, stitches in the tabs across the top of the page folks. Thanks.

**Mark your calendars, a yarn give away is approaching! Starting Feb 14th, we're doing another comment contest. Don't miss out. Spread the word about free yarn**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donation of hats, Unidentified

17 hats here in the picture being donated. All are crocheted but I've no clue whom they're from. There was no note or return address label on the box. I tried to read the stamped mailing label but was unable to. I tried to plug in 3 different numbers on the label that I thought might be a tracking, that didn't work. Some of these hats are very open and lacy (beret style) and those will be held until warmer weather where folks might still be in need, but perhaps less in need of a really warm hat. Look at the details, in particular on the top left olive greenish color hat...very nice.

**Reminder folks to please include a note with your donations so I know who you are and how to contact you. Even if you wish to be anonymous, please include your name and email with the donation so I can let you know it arrived. You can still be anonymous here on the blog if you wish; but a note saves me enormous amount of time trying to identify you. Also looking for a Ruth P from Michigan, need your email. AND Elizabeth R from CA? If you're out there, please make contact.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 19+17=36
Scarves: 4
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Please read all details regarding size, color, stitches in the tabs across the top of the page folks. Thanks.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Ladies Crocheted Hats for the Homeless

Thank you Lauren H from Michigan for these 8 crocheted hats for the ladies. Lauren is our newest pair of helping hands. We're happy to have you join us, and hope to see you here on Bridge and Beyond often. Please keep up the good work.

**Reminder folks to please include a note with your donations so I know who you are and how to contact you. Even if you wish to be anonymous, please include your name and email with the donation so I can let you know it arrived. You can still be anonymous here on the blog if you wish. Looking for a Ruth P from Michigan, need your email. Wanting to identify unknown donation of 17 hats. Don't even know what state they're from as there was no return address.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 11+8=19
Scarves: 4
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Please help us grow and reach more people in need. Blog about us, print and pass out some flyers, tell your friends-neighbors and family members. Post links on your blog, facebook wall and other similar social media's. Thank You!

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Knitted Hats for the Homeless

The EverReady Bunny is at it again! Look at these adorable hats! All 7 are beautifully knitted, wonderfully soft and just plain awesome. Bunny's done it again. Hats of different sizes and colors to fit a variety of heads. I love the nice stretch with the ribbing, as well as ear tab hat. The little bonnet type style sure takes me back. A hat to truly keep a child warm. Covers the whole head, the ears, and has a tie. Hey Bunny....how many would you suggest casting on for an adult? A small adult...I have pin sized head, but would be interested in making one for myself.

Thank you for your on going support, truly it is appreciated.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 11
Scarves: 4
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Please review the tabs at the top of the blog for requirements for size and color for hats, scarves, mittens, slippers, and squares. Patterns are also available

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

First Donation in 2012

This is the first donation of 2012. It comes from Michigan. Ruth P, our newest pair of helping hands. I've not been able to make contact as there was no email ady included with the donation. I've searched through my email box, and all the groups I belong to in order to find Ruth to no avail. If anyone knows Ruth P in Michigan, please make contact. I'd like to be able to let her know her donation arrived.

?? Also, I wonder if this Ruth P is the same Ruth as this donator?

She starts us out with 4 hats, 4 scarves, 1 pair of slippers, and 2 shawls.

Thank you Ruth.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 4
Scarves: 4
Slippers: 1
Shawls: 2
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, yarn, etc)

Please review the tabs at the top of the blog for requirements for size and color for hats, scarves, mittens, slippers, and squares. Patterns are also available.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

End of the Year 2011 Final Tallies

WOW!
You all did it. A while back, as I was watching our numbers grow I dreamed/wondered and hoped we might hit 500 scarves...and LOOK, 502. And, I wondered if we might hit 1,000 hats, and LOOK, we did 1,008.

Everyone involved deserves a big Thank You, and a HUGE pat on the back.

I am truly thrilled at this years accomplishments. We've increased our helping hands, giving us the ability to reach more people in need. We've added 2 family shelters to the list of those we've helped in the past. We've added a couple of grade schools to that list, we reached beyond our county borders to help those in Vinton County as well. All wonderful accomplishments that couldn't have been achieved without the continued love and support and skillful hands of you all.
If you missed the impressive list of those who donated in the year 2011...it's HERE. Please take a look, and if I missed anyone...do sing out. Going back through a whole year of blog posts to compile the list, it's possible I inadvertently missed someone.

We had a nice article written about the cause and the blog in Crochet Magazine this year too. If you didn't get a chance to read that...check the side bar and try finding a copy at your newsstand and or library.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 502
Hats 1,008
Mittens 239
Socks 374
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 222
Cotton Washcloths 424
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Look how far we've come folks!
2008-2009 Donations
Hats 368
Mittens 66
Scarves 147
Socks 79 pair*counts from day 1, Dec 2 2008

2010 Donations
Scarves 340
Hats 592
Mittens 151
Socks 101
Slippers 34
Ghans 10
Squares 238

To date, we've knitted/crocheted and donated a total of 1,968 hats to warm men, women and children, in need. We've knitted and crocheted a total of 989 scarves and 456 mittens; again for men, women, and children.

Some of you have been with us from the start, some who were with us in the start no longer are, and some of you are recent helpers. I value you all and truly THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart. Please know you've made a very important difference to a great many people. Please keep up the good work. I hope we can continue at this level and grow even more. Please help us grow more by telling people what you do. Everyone knows someone who knits or crochets, who wants to help others, who blogs, who tweets, who facebooks, etc.

Goals for year 2012 (I'm dreaming big)
Grow our numbers of helping hands
Grow our numbers of items donated
Grow by reaching other groups who need our help
Grow from 184 followers to 250? (ask your friends if they blog, ask them to follow us)
Improve our google page rank from it's current 3 to 4 or more. (we grew from 2 to 3 in July)
Improve our Alexa rank (remember that number needs to go down to be better). In July when it was added to the page our rank was 6,123,422 and this morning when I started writing this scheduled post (Jan 5th), it was 3,885,629.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Being Behind turned to Being AHEAD?

As squares were coming in, being separated for storing until use; some ghans were being designed. I like to do several at one time generally speaking ...you know while I've got squares thrown around and the brain is in gear. Then I bag and label them and after completing a few, design more. This was designed about 10 days before Christmas, actually I considered whether or not I might be able to get it done once I completed the one I was working on....not realistic...so then I thought...behind again........NOPE...I left it bagged and tagged and will leave it in que...I'm ahead right? lol...for Christmas of 2012 instead of 2011. Unless at some point I snatch a square or two from here that I need for another ghan...will see how that goes. I like the look of this, but it will require quite a bit of work to fit the different sizes together.........

2011 Donations:

Scarves 502
Hats 1,008
Mittens 239
Socks 374
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 222
Cotton Washcloths 419+5=424
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Hope you've noticed and read some of the additions and changes here on the blog folks. **

****January continues to focus on Mittens, hope you're all busy knitting and crocheting****

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Personal Items Donated from The Tar Heel State

Thank you Anne G from North Carolina (The Tar Heel State) for your thoughtful donation of personal care items (shampoo, soap, lip balm, toothpaste, toothbrushes, tissues, powder, combs, brushes, and lotions), and 5 fabulous crocheted cotton washcloths. Look how pretty these cloths are...bright and cheery. Everyone loves cotton washcloths and the need for the cotton cloths and personal care items never goes away...not for our families at the shelters or our men on street. Many thanks Anne G.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 502
Hats 1,008
Mittens 239
Socks 374
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 222
Cotton Washcloths 419+5=424
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Hope you've noticed and read some of the additions and changes here on the blog folks. **

****January continues to focus on Mittens, hope you're all busy knitting and crocheting****

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Colorful and Adorable Donations from The Sunshine State

Thank you Linda for your on going support from The Sunshine State (Florida) and your skillful hands. Look at these darling mittens and hats! A variety of sizes and colors make it perfect. AND...those hats with the ear flaps....AWESOME. Not only are they warm, and soft...they are super stylish. Love to post your pattern Linda, is that possible?

2011 Donations:

Scarves 502
Hats 1,001+7=1,008
Mittens 234+5=239
Socks 374
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 222
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Hope you've noticed and read some of the additions and changes here on the blog folks. **

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donation from "Knotty Knitters" from The Bay State

Thank you "Knotty Knitters" from The Bay State (Massachusetts). The "Knotty Knitters", Lois, Lucille, Penny, Lynne and Melody have been very busy indeed. Take at look at this wonderful team donation of scarves (21), hats (16), mittens (6), socks (14), and yarn, and rain poncho's (6). These ladies get together, knit chat and donate to charity. Such a wonderful win win situation for all involved. Thank you ladies, keep up the good work. We look forward to seeing you again here on Bridge and Beyond with your caring hearts and busy hands.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 481+21=502
Hats 985+16=1,001
Mittens 258+6=234
Socks 360+14=374
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 216+6=222
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**AND...drum roll, these donation of hats and scarves has put us over the magic numbers of 1,000 and 500 I wondered if we'd hit!!! That's very exciting AND we still have days left in Decembers Donations, so.............do stay tuned**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Knitted hats donated from The Golden State

Thank you Louise S from The Golden State (California) for these 2 lovely, super soft and well knitted hats. Being partial to red, that would be my pick; but they are both very nice. Two more people warmed such a wonderful thing. Thank you Louise for your on going support, it is greatly appreciated.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 481
Hats 983+2=985
Mittens 258
Socks 360
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Look how close we're getting folks to those goals of 1,000 hats and 500 scarves.....pretty excited. We may make it yet. Donations continue to come in, and while you're reading this post in the year 2012, it is written in Dec of 2011....December's donations are still being tallied and posted.**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Designing GemStone Afghan

Gemstone afghan....how's that for a name for this afghan in the works? These fabulous squares were donated by our good friend Liz (minnisoda on The Ville).

Haven't decided on what color to edge and join this one with...so many options..black, dark green, red.........?? Thoughts? As you know we've received so many wonderful squares I'm designing several at a time and will keep you all posted on the progress. All these squares when joined will be donated to The Homeless Families Foundation for our Project, "Welcome Home". If you're new here and haven't yet read about that project, please click on the badge in the right side bar.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 481
Hats 983
Mittens 258
Socks 360
Squares 941
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donations from The Land of Lincoln

Thank you Betty B from The Land of Lincoln and The Prairie state of Illinois. Betty's our newest pair of helping hands. We're happy to have you join us and hope to see you here on The Bridge often. Betty donated 20 wonderful crocheted squares and 23 pairs of socks. Lots of feet will be warmed and these 20 squares will make friends soon with others in a afghan for Project "Welcome Home."

Wow folks look how close we're getting to our goals....I wondered if we might hit 500 scarves or 1,000 hats by the close of the year 2011. Only 17 hats needed, and 19 scarves to do that! Remember posts are written, placed in que, scheduled...so while you're reading this post in the year 2012, this one was written Dec 21st. All items received in the calendar year of 2011 are recording in that year....soooooooo 9 days left.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 481
Hats 983
Mittens 258
Socks 337+23=360
Squares 921+20=941
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

SCRUMPTIOUS Scarves

Thank you Gail B for another wonderful donation hot of your crochet hook. 9 wonderful scarves, beautifully made, wonderfully sized for adults...........great colors too! Thank you for your on going support Gail. If you're on the Ville you've no doubt enjoyed seeing many wonderful projects from Gail. Keep up the good work.

Wow folks look how close we're getting to our goals....I wondered if we might hit 500 scarves or 1,000 hats by the close of the year 2011. Only 17 hats needed, and 19 scarves to do that! Remember posts are written, placed in que, scheduled...so while you're reading this post in the year 2012, this one was written Dec 21st. All items received in the calendar year of 2011 are recording in that year....soooooooo 9 days left.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473+9=481
Hats 983
Mittens 258
Socks 337
Squares 921
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Cute Donations from Michigan

Thank you Bridget (Charbridge Knits), for this darling donation. Look at those hats with the eyes! Precious. Everything is so beautifully knitted Bridget. Look at the wonderful variety of hat styles...including one that looks like a cupcake! Wonderful hats and slippers here for sure.


2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 971+12=983
Mittens 258
Socks 337
Squares 921
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 129+5=134
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Please leave a comment as to the state your from if it's not listed with your name.
Please visit often and when you do, leave a comment. You do not need to be a blogger to do so. Use the name and url feature in the drop down box and simply leave the url space empty. We love knowing you were here, and it helps the blog's placement in search engines which is important for our growth.
Please look around the blog, constant updates with regard to our need, sizes and color requirements etc.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Fun and Funky Afghan in the Works

Sorry the picture here is a bit blurry, I must have moved when I snapped the photo. This is an afghan in the works, recently designed from squares donated by our very good friend, AnneMarie in New York. I need just 2 squares to make this design complete and believe I have yarn that will work. Any thoughts for a name beyond Fun and Funky? Or Funky Fall? That's where my brain is taking me at the moment I layed these squares out. I believe I'll be edging and joining this afghan in orange.

I'll keep ya posted on the progress of this fun and funky afghan for Project "Welcome Home".

**Need to make contact with a Ruth P from Michigan, and an unidentified donator who sent a box of 17 hats

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 971
Mittens 258
Socks 337
Squares 921
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 129
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

Please review the tabs at the top of the blog for requirements for size and color for hats, scarves, mittens, slippers, and squares. Patterns are also available.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donation from The Garden State

Love this blue variegated. Think I had some of this yarn awhile back and made a couple of booties and hats for little ones. Reminds me of blue jeans. This interesting square is being donated by Jessica S (along with personal care items) from the State of New Jersey, The Garden State. Sure wish it were gardening weather Jessica. This square is mingling with other squares, making friends and before long will be part of afghan spreading the love for our Project" Welcome Home."
Thank you Jessica for your thoughtful donation.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 971
Mittens 258
Socks 337
Squares 920+1=921
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 129
Afghans 56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Remember items that came in before the end of the year are still being counted in the 2011 totals, and remember all posts are scheduled to post in que**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Smiley Faces make me Smile

Personal care items, socks, slippers, and 2 knitted hats from our good friend Yvonne from the state of North Dakota.
AND a darling no sew fleece blanket. How adorable is this! I flipped the corner so you could see the color on the reverse side. This adorable blanket will surely make some little one smile. Who can resist smiling faces after all. Many thanks Yvonne for your on going support of our people in need here in Ohio. The blanket was donated to Project "Welcome Home", and by the time you all read this scheduled post is already keeping a child warm.

**Received unidentified donation of 17 hats, could you please make contact? Also, could Ruth P from Michigan make contact, I don't have an email from you.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 969+2=971
Mittens 258
Socks 333+4=337
Squares 920
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 128+1=129
Afghans 55+1=56 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Remember items that came in before the end of the year are still being counted in the 2011 totals, and remember all posts are scheduled to post in que, PLEASE keep checking in for the final tallies**

***Notice differences, changes, additions to the blog? Please take time and look around. Mitten tab has patterns, and This is Mitten Month!***

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Designing Afghans, Got Brown?

If you've been to this blog before, you know I like to name the afghans that are donated to our family shelters. This afghan show casing some fun brown squares from our good friend, minnisoda over on The Ville (Liz) is thus far named, "Got Brown". It's funky and fun. I'm not yet decided on what color I want to edge, join, and border with. Initially, brown seemed the logically option. Using blue would bring out the blue, but also make it more youthful; I think which is not what I have in mind. It's modern looking, funky looking to me, so I was thinking black? Though black is very traditional with grannie squares, I think here it might be non-traditional looking? And masculine?

It should be sized nicely enough to be a good family afghan also. Then again.........what would red look like with it? Thoughts? Please feel free to add your thoughts.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 969
Mittens 258
Socks 333
Squares 920
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 128
Afghans 55 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Remember items that came in before the end of the year are still being counted in the 2011 totals, and remember all posts are scheduled to post in que**

***Notice differences, changes, additions to the blog? Please take time and look around.***

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Friendship, Knitting, and Charity go Hand in Hand

This post #600!!! How cool is that?

Friendship and knitting and charity go hand in hand. I've seen this dynamic played out all over the net with groups on RAV, groups on The Hive, groups on Crochetville, groups on yahoo and certainly in blogging. People gather together with a common bond, the love of knitting/crocheting, the desire to help others, and friendships are formed....over and over again.

This batch of knitted cotton wash cloths comes from a face to face group where friendship, knitting and charity go hand in hand. Thank you Barb, Peggy, Janice, and Susan in St. Louis, Missouri for your thoughtful donation. These will be put to good use. The 2 family shelters, The YWCA and Homeless Families Foundation are always thrilled to receive these, as is The Faith Mission Shelter. Many thanks, hope to see you ladies here on often.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 969
Mittens 258
Socks 333
Squares 920
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 345+74=419
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 128
Afghans 55 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Remember items that came in before the end of the year are still being counted in the 2011 totals, and remember all posts are scheduled to post in que**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donating Squares Way more fun ....

Donating squares is definitely more fun then doing geometry....though quess we sorta use that skill when piece donated squares together to make afghans. This wonderful donation of crocheted granny squares come from our good friend over on The Ville, minnisoda (Liz). Many thanks for your on going support, and your skillful hands. Look at all the awesome colors folks. Please stay tuned to see me remembering high school geometry and get creative with these awesome (68) squares.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 969
Mittens 258
Socks 333
Squares 852+68=920
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 345
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 128
Afghans 55 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

**Remember items that came in before the end of the year are still being counted in the 2011 totals, and remember all posts are scheduled to post in que**

NEW ITEMS:
Have you checked out the new tabs? If not, please please do.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Happy New Year

WOW, it's been a busy year, hard to believe it's now 2012 and the year 2011 is behind us. We've accomplished alot through out this year folks. We've been featured in Crochet Magazine, we've been linked on a few more blogs, we've reached donation levels sufficient enough to add additional groups to those we help. A very successful year...who's count continues

**There are donations from minnisoda (Liz), Bridget, Yvonne, Barb-Peggy-Janice and Susan from St. Louis pending as I write this scheduled post. Their items have been received and will be counting in the 2011 totals; but as you know there's a new post each day highlighting someone's donation........they are scheduled ahead and therefore their items will appear Next Year (2012)...as will others that come from the time this post was actually written (12-16) til the end of the year.

PLEASE take time, (even if you've been here looking around on the blog before), new items to see. Check out the updated working calendar, read the tabs titled, Mittens, Scarves, Hats, Hats, and Give a Square.

2011 Donations:

Scarves 473
Hats 969
Mittens 258
Socks 333
Squares 852
Rain Ponchos 216
Cotton Washcloths 345
Sweaters/Poncho's 11
Slippers 128
Afghans 55 (2 sent to our friends at Pine Street)
Misc Items I've not counted misc items like all the personal care items, the neck warmers, head bands, shawl, hot packs, or yarn etc.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO'VE DONATED AND OR HELPED BEHIND THE SCENES TO MAKE 2011 SO SUCCESSFUL: (I've gone back through the whole year of posts to compile this list, please let me know if I've left someone out).

Adrienne
Alexis
Amy
Angie M.
Anne G.
AnneMarie
Barb from St. Louis
Barb (not St. Louis, last initial?)
Barbara
Becky
Beth
Betty B.
Bonnie B.
Bridget
Bunny
Carol S.
Cheryl B.
Cheryl G.
Cheryl S.
Chizoba
Christine (my darling daughter)
Chuck (my older brother)
Cindy
Connie S.
Damaris
DaMarys
Deborah K.
Denise F
Diana H.
Diane K.
Dolores W.
Elaine
Evelyn
Frank
Gail B.
Gloria
Helen
Jackie M.
James
Jan (my SIL)
Janice in St. Louis
Jeanette
Jen
Jenny S.
Jennifer T.
Jessica
Joanie B.
Jodi
Joy
Judy L.
Karen A.
Karen H.
Katie B.
Kathy G.
Kathy S.
Kevin (my fabulous neighbor who takes care of the mail in my absence)
Kim J.
Laurie
Linda M.
Liz
Lois (Knotty Knitters)
Louise
Lucille(Knotty Knitters)
Lynn (my friend who makes deliveries for us to Holy Family, Vinton Co, and several schools)
Lynne (Knotty Knitters)
Marie Anne
Marilyn P.
Marilyn W.
Mary A.
Mary H.
Mary (? unsure if this is one of the Mary's above)
Melissa
Melody (Knotty Knitters)
Nancy
Nelda
Niki
Nikki S.
Nola
Panther
Pat E.
Patty L.
Patty S.
Paula K.
Pauline B.
Peggy P.
Peggy in St. Louis
Penny(Knotty Knitters)
Phyllis
Phyllis G (unsure if same as above Phyllis)
Rae (lady who makes deliveries to our Bridge People and 2 free clinics and YWCA family shelter)
Rajani
Rebeccah
Robbie (never identified in order to contact)
RoseMarie
Sacha
Sally
Sandie (from Louisiana)
Sandie (from Florida)
Sandy (me, the 3rd Sandy)
Sara R.
Sara T.
Sarah S
Sharlet
Sherri I.
Sherry K.
Shirley
Stephanie
Sue F.
Sue H.
Sue V.K.
Suzy D.
Suzann W
Tammy
Theresa M.
Theresa S.
Tracy F.
Trudy
Unidentified Donor from the State of Washington
Vickie
Yvonne S.

**Includes names for those who's post and donations are up and coming, but still counted in the year 2011 totals**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!