What a Haul Mr. MailMan

As many of you know, I have a fabulous neighbor who maintains your thoughtful donation each and everytime I'm on the road. This last trip was no exception. He and his adorable son (like my adopted grandson), always build a little something for me with the boxes and pouches that come during my absence. What you can't see well from the picture is this was a half circle type fort. Quess who was probably in the middle of it. lol

Notice the items on the bench. I call the bench area in my living room the shipping and receiving department. One box was wet (thank you Ohio rain storms), so they quickly opened it, got rid of the nasty box to be certain the goods were ok. They were! Extra work on their part. They made sure to keep the address, so I would know from whom the donation came and put it on the fridge with a magnet. AWESOME.

I think there were 12 packages. One had been dropped off in person. Gotta love the dedication of some folks. My high school friend, Cheryl who lives in Florida's husband came to Ohio to watch The OSU Spring Game. Great man that he is, he hand carried the white bag stuffed with warm goodies for Ohio's homeless! How sweet is that!!

Check in to see all these packages once they're opened, photographed, and counted.

Thank you all for your patience in communicating to you your thoughtful donations arrived while I was gone. YOU ROCK, and so does my FABULOUS NEIGHBOR and Son!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 246
Scarves: 174
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

*While unrelated to helping the homeless, knitting and or crocheting; I want to take a minute to ask you all to visit and participate in my Flat Stanley Blog. It's brand new, the blog that is; certainly not the idea. Warm weather is coming, kids will be out of school and finding quality things to do to fill that time can be a challenge. You are all creative and caring people, so thought you might enjoy spending time with us, making your own Flat Stanley, or request one from me. I'll be sharing adventures with ideas of ways to make every opportunity a quality learning fun time; as well as sharing those of my readers. Let's get the kids involved, your kids, your grandchildren, your neices and nephews, those you baby sit for, and or the kiddos in the neighborhoods. Please swing by for a visit, leave a comment etc. CLICK HERE.*


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!

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 Donated from the Keystone State

Thank you Jodi V from Pennsylvania for your great crocheted mittens. These are so nicely made, nice and thick and warm. Sorry folks for quality of this photo. Opened this donation right before leaving town and was quickly trying to get it posted in que...as you know all posts are scheduled. The mittens are so nicely made and will be just the ticket to warm cold hands.

Keep up the good work Jodi, hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 246
Scarves: 174
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134+1=135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

*While unrelated to helping the homeless, knitting and or crocheting; I want to take a minute to ask you all to visit and participate in my Flat Stanley Blog. It's brand new, the blog that is; certainly not the idea. Warm weather is coming, kids will be out of school and finding quality things to do to fill that time can be a challenge. You are all creative and caring people, so thought you might enjoy spending time with us, making your own Flat Stanley, or request one from me. I'll be sharing adventures with ideas of ways to make every opportunity a quality learning fun time; as well as sharing those of my readers. Let's get the kids involved, your kids, your grandchildren, your neices and nephews, those you baby sit for, and or the kiddos in the neighborhoods. Please swing by for a visit, leave a comment etc. CLICK HERE.*

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 Crown Jewels

Our very good friend, Liz (minnisoda on The Ville), included squares with her most recent donation. Before adding her squares to the square containers I came up with this design, Crown Jewels from some of her squares. Unsure yet what color I'll be wanting to edge and join this ghan with; but love these colors together. If I join with orange, believe it will take on a real look of fall, likewise with gold (plus I know I don't have the right shade of gold in my stash. That's as far as my thinking has taken me so far. Feel free to leave me your thoughts.

As always Liz, your squares are awesome and always so well made, many thanks for your on going support and your skillful hands.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 246
Scarves: 174
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**please remember folks to include your email ady, blog url, or profile page with your donations so that I might better identify you and be able to make contact with 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!

Donations, Thank you Crochet Magazine

Thank you Debra T from The Show Me State (Missouri), our newest pair of helping hands for these crocheted goodies. Debra has made and donated 7 headbands, 5 scarves, and 4 cowls. Debra found us through reading the article about us in the winter edition of Crochet Magazine. How cool is that folks. I believe from memory, she is the 2nd or 3rd person we've received a donation from due to the article. There may indeed be others (and I hope that continues), but it's possible people just haven't mentioned it.

I don't have an email ady, blog url, facebook or Rav page for Debra to make contact to say thank you. Am hopeful she'll be reading the blog and sign out.

We're happy to have you join us Debra and hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 246
Scarves: 169+5=174
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**please remember folks to include your email ady, blog url, or profile page with your donations so that I might better identify you and be able to make contact with 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!

Large warm soft Scarves for Ohio's Homeless

Thank you Trudy S from Maryland for this thoughtful donation and your on going support. 4 Fabulously warm, soft scarves. I love that they're big enough to really wrap up in. And a knit hat to match the coral colored scarf. Very nice indeed. Please keep up the good work.

Some little fun facts for you all. Upper Marlboro (previously named Upper Marlborough) a port town was named after John Churchill The 1st Duke of Marlborough, an ancestor of William Churchill! Did you know Upper Marlboro played a very important part during The War of 1812? There's lots to see and explore there in this historic town (founded in 1695). Every year on Mother's Day the streets are closed to celebrate The Upper Marlborough/Marlboro Festival. Now those who know me, know I like a bit of history. Soooooooo, since our friend and supporter Trudy hails from Upper Marlboro, I thought I'd through out these facts for you. Now...back to your yarn folks, keep those hands busy.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 245+1=246
Scarves: 165+4=169
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**With the exception of squares folks, remember we collect all items all year long. Lots of information regarding sizes, colors and styles can be found in all the tabs across the top of the blog. Remember items should be as solid as possible for warmth. Open lacy items don't provide as much warmth and generally don't hold up as well in terms of durability. If you can poke your fingers through the stitches, it's probably too lacy.**

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!

What your Donations Become

This afghan in waiting is titled Dusty Rose. This ghan is designed from big and little squares, from squares and rectangles, from knitted and crocheted squares, from sampler and granny style squares. This design waiting to be assembled has squares from lots of different hands. Can you find a square of yours here? If so, please sing out. I know off the top of my head there are squares from my high school friend Joy here...5 of them I think. I'll probably edge and join in pink provided I have enough yarn that matches. Some squares are quite a bit smaller then others, so will need quite a bit of edging....will have to see how it goes when the time comes.
I'm very much in thinking stages on this design. Currently I'm calling this one, Summers End. Colors are muted, much like colors at the end of summer are. Sometimes I think it goes together, other times...I'm not certain. Love to have some input on this one. These are all crocheted squares, different sizes though. Some are sampler squares (all the pink and greens), and the variegated are granny squares. Do you see some of your squares here? Sing out if you do.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 245
Scarves: 165
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**PLEASE read size and color requirements on tabs across the top of the blog. Some items have changed. 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!

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!

Scarves from New Jersey Donated in Ohio

Ten soft and warm crocheted scarves from our newest pair of helping hands, Bobbi R from New Jersey. Thank you Bobbi. We're happy you joined us with your skillful hands, and hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond. Look at the nice variety of colors in her scarves. She's also provided a good variety in sizing. Some scarves are appropriate for women, some men, and some for teens. Many thanks, keep up the good work.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 245
Scarves: 155+10=165
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**With the exception of squares folks, remember we collect all items all year long. Lots of information regarding sizes, colors and styles can be found in all the tabs across the top of the blog. Remember items should be as solid as possible for warmth. Open lacy items don't provide as much warmth and generally don't hold up as well in terms of durability.**

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 Crocheted Cotton Washcloths

Thank you Denise F for these wonderful crocheted cotton washcloths. All the shelters appreciate receiving donations of cotton washcloths. Typically it's an item they can't keep enough off. Thank you for your thoughtful donation. I love the colors in the one bottom right, very pretty.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 245
Scarves: 155
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 89+9=98
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Denise sends her donation all the way from the state of Louisiana. We have a couple of folks from that great state who donate.

We've not yet had someone from the following states donate...(sure would love to add more states to our map.)
Alabama
Alaska
Arkansas
Conn
Idaho
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Miss.
Montana
Nevada
New Mexico
Oregon
Rhode Island
South Dakota
Texas
Utah

**another post not showing up as scheduled**

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 Day at The Beach Afghan

Another afghan designed and assembled from your donated squares. Titled this one, Day at the Beach. It has squares from our good friend Liz. I used several rows of white (winterwhite) to enlarge each square, then added several more rows once it was all crocheted together. I found aqua and the variegated in my stash and was pleased they worked so well. Just had enough too, of the variegated to make the 2 rows be the final edge.

Homeless Families Foundation is the recipient of the afghans made from your donated squares. These afghans are part of the Welcome Home Package given to all those families moving into permanent housing and leaving the shelter. We hope they provide not only physical warmth, but hope and encouragement for their futures.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 245
Scarves: 155
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 21+1=22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 89Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

By the time you read this scheduled post, we'll be over half way through the month of April...and while Spring comes for a few days at a time, we're still having frost here in Central Ohio. Warm items are still needed. Please keep your yarn close at hand, and remember we knit and crochet and donate all year long. That way, we're able to stock pile for all those living outdoors and those in the shelters to be ready when the nicer weather turns not so nice.

**This should have posted a couple of days ago, but as mentioned in the last several blog post...blogger has been changing formats and as a result things like the scheduled post hasn't been working. This is extremely frustrating to me. I always have things lined up for a couple of weeks to post at 8 am each morning. Obviously, that's not been happening. My apologies. I've left comments for blogger/google...and see TONS of other bloggers have experienced the same thing. I've not had the ability (being out of town) to post things manually, and am hopeful things will get fixed soon.**

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 Yarn can be Inspiring

Thank you Joyce L from New Mexico. Joyce found this yarn doing some deep cleaning. It belonged to her mother and she's passing it along to us. I love the pretty blue Homespun and will be able to make at least 1 scarf, maybe 2 from this donation. The fun variegated will also be put to good use. It makes me think of a box of crayons.

Joyce is our newest pair of helping hands. Thrilled to have you join us and hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond. Also, very happy to add New Mexico to our map (scroll to the bottom of the blog please); as it's a state that hadn't had representation prior to this. AND....since donating this yarn, I wanted to pass along some inspiration. Joyce inspired herself and no doubt my retelling her tale will inspire someone else. After she donated the yarn, she decided it was time to once again try her hand at crocheting. She hadn't crocheted in a long time, passed along this yarn; as her Mother had said it was hard to work with. She's now finding her time spent crocheting as very relaxing........how cool is that.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 245
Scarves: 155
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 134
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 89
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Once again blogger is not working properly, this should have been published by now, for the last week, I've had to come to the edit and post everything manually, very frustrating and slowing up the process of getting all your wonderful donations properly posted, my apologize...assume it's because blogger is making way too many changes, much like facebook forcing them and they haven't worked out the bugs. I want my old Blogger back!!**
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!

2 Wonderful Boxes Donated for Ohio's Homeless

Two boxes of fabulous goodies from our very good friend Liz (minnisoda on the Ville). Box 1 contained 55 great squares. Look at the fun colors and designs.

Box 2 contained 8 nice size cotton washcloths, 2 hats, and 7 great scarves. Liz, once again you've out done yourself. Everything is wonderfully made, and so very much appreciated. Please keep up the good work.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 243+2=245
Scarves: 148+7=155
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 21
Mittens: 134
Squares: 205+55=260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 81+8=89
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

By the time you read this scheduled post, we'll be over half way through the month of April...and while Spring comes for a few days at a time, we're still having frost here in Central Ohio. Warm items are still needed. Please keep your yarn close at hand, and remember we knit and crochet and donate all year long. That way, we're able to stock pile for all those living outdoors and those in the shelters to be ready when the nicer weather turns not so nice.

**this was scheduled to post on the 18th, but through a blogger gliche of several preceeding scheduled blogs not showing up, I've needed to move them to stay in line. Made the adjustments yesterday when I realized posts had not published. This post should have posted an hour ago, and I see it's still scheduled but ....no doubt due to blogger trying to force everyone to switch to their new format, what we need to work doesn't. Will continue to try and get things back on track.**

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!

Beach Ball Afghan Donated

Another afghan completed from your donated squares for project, Welcome Home. These squares are all crocheted by our friends Liz and Diane K. There were close to the same size so I didn't add much to each square. Added several rows for the border and finished it with a ruffle. I had the perfect match for the light turquoise in my stash.

Titled this afghan Beach Ball and it's large enough to be a full blanket for a young one, and or teen to adult. I'm sure whomever the female is (young or older), will enjoy these colors. I know I enjoyed putting them together. Thank you Liz and Diana K for your squares.

Please hold mailing squares for the time being, unless you're mailing other items and want to save on postage. I want to work through some more before putting out a call for them again.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 243
Scarves: 148
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 20+1=21
Mittens: 134
Squares: 205
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 81
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**unsure why this didn't post 2 days ago as it was scheduled, thus the Tuesday date with this being Thursday, apparently a blog gliche?

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!

Hitting The April Focus with Zeal

Don't rub your eyes.......what you see is not a mirage...it is real! Many thanks AnneMarie for your wonderful and very thoughtful donation. She's donated 50 cotton washcloths. Click to see the variety of style/shapes and colors.......awesome! AND rain ponchos perfect, she's hit both our month focuses for April with 72 double packs of ponchos.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 243
Scarves: 148
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 20
Mittens: 134
Squares: 205
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 10+144=154
Cotton Washcloths 31+50=81
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Folks, please take time and look around the blog. Some things have moved, some deleted, and some have other changes. I've tried out a couple of new templates and continue to tweak, so need you to spend some time and let me know how things look to you. Are you finding everything?

**Before you mail your donations, PLEASE, recheck to be certain you've included a note that includes your name and email ady at a minimum. This is essential, even if you wish to be anonymous. When donations come with no email ady, I spend large amounts of time searching for you through my emails, my database, my groups, RAV, Facebook etc. PLEASE save me that time and include your name and email ady.**

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 Bead Queen

Our friend Rose Marie's been at it again with her beads and buttons. She crocheted and donated 2 squares, 2 scarves with matching hats, and a pair of slippers. She's included some personal items as well.

Thank you for your on going support, you surely are appreciated.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 241+2=243
Scarves: 146+2=148
Slippers: 64+1=65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 20
Mittens: 134
Squares: 203+2=205
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's10
Cotton Washcloths 31
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Before you mail your donations, PLEASE, recheck to be certain you've included a note that includes your name and email ady at a minimum. This is essential, even if you wish to be anonymous. When donations come with no email ady, I spend large amounts of time searching for you through my emails, my database, my groups, RAV, Facebook etc. PLEASE save me that time and include your name and email ady.**

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!

Mother Earth Afghan Donated

Just realized, I never got this photo loaded for you of the completed and already donated Mother Earth Afghan. This was nicely sized for a family afghan. With both the size and the colors it is suitable for a family headed either by a male or a female. All these squares were donated by our friend, Joy; my former high school classmate. I was very pleased with the way this turned out. Not sure how I missed getting it posted for you all to enjoy.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 241
Scarves: 146
Slippers: 64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 19+1=20
Mittens: 134
Squares: 203
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's10
Cotton Washcloths 31
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Hard to believe we're about half way through the month of April already. Time sure does fly. Remember April is cotton washcloth month. Cotton cloths are needed for men and women and are distributed to 3 different family shelters, as well as the men and women living under the bridges. Please keep your hooks and knitted needles flying. Please make all cotton cloths sized for adults. Please also make sure your cotton cloths are in fact, cotton. Have had a few that are acrylic yarn which really doesn't work for showers and baths. Thank You.

**A few days ago I mentioned I had several fun numbers/milestones to report. The first was our hitting post #700...woot woot. Another fun number, have you noticed how many followers we have? We've broken 200. Love to see that number grow. If you're a blogger and come visiting, please do follow us. If you have friends who knit or crochet, or friends who give of themselves in various ministries to aid others, please ask them to follow us as well.**

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 Retro and Sand Box Afghans

You may remember I recently had a full day of designing afghans, naming and bagging them...getting things at the ready for lots more assembling. This is one I've titled Retro. It made me think of the fifty's kitchen colors. In my growing up years we had a bright turquoise kitchen. The squares come from a variety of people...sing out if you have squares in the above design. It will take a fair amount of edging to put this together, as the squares vary in size etc. The joining and edging color is depended on what I have in my stash in sufficient volume when I get working on this one. I know I don't have enough brown which was my first thought...so, will give this some thought.
I've titled this one Sand Box. First thought Mother Earth 2, but didn't want it to be so closely name as the previous Mother Earth. Leaning towards light grey or off white for the edging and joining of this afghan.

Are you finding you squares in these designs? Please let me know if you do.

THIS IS POST #701!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 241
Scarves: 146
Slippers: 64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 19
Mittens: 134
Squares: 203
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's10
Cotton Washcloths 31
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Remember, we collect all items, except squares all year long. The working calendar is to highlight items most needed, please keep checking it.**

Please remember folks we love comments, on this post...on the post from yesterday as well as the post that will appear tomorrow. I know many of you tell me you read, check the blog daily. Please let me once again encourage you all, bloggers and non bloggers to let us know you've been here by leaving a comment. It's easy, it's fast and it helps the blogs placement with search engines. Helping the blogs placement in search engines is important in attracting new pairs of helping hands, which then translates into having the ability to help more people in need. If you're a non blogger all you need to do to leave a comment is type your comment below the post, click the drop down box that says name and url, leave the url space empty, click publish. Please, if you've visited us here before and aren't one to leave comments, let today be your first of many. 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!

Crocheted Donatation from Military Base in Germany

A donation all the way from Germany! Our good friend Katie B has done it again with this wonderful thoughtful crocheted donation of 7 scarves, a pair of mittens, 5 hats, and 4 cotton washcloths! Wow, all the way from a military base in Germany!! Many many thanks Katie. We're thrilled to have your special help. Please keep up the good work.

I'll be telling you about several fun numbers to report/milestone if you will, in the up coming posts. Today, this post you're reading is our 700th post! Folks that's super exciting to me and hopefully it is to you as well. Very few of those posts contain something other then good news. These posts written, scheduled appear daily (less often in our early days), represent the good work you've all done with your crochet hooks, your knitting needles, and your knitting looms. These post reflect how big hearted, kind, and caring you all are to take your time, your talent to knit and crochet...then to box it up and pay postage to donate your items to those in need. Men, Women, and Children in desperate circumstances, some living on the streets, some in temporary situations in shelters. Keep up the good work and please join me in being please we've hit another milestone. 700 blog post.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 236+5=241
Scarves: 139+7=146
Slippers: 64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 19
Mittens: 133+1=134
Squares: 203
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's10
Cotton Washcloths 27+4=31
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts 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!

Blue Jazz for Project Welcome Home

Blue Jazz Afghan Done - and by the time you read this scheduled post, it's already been donated. In fact...by now, it's probably already in use. Look at the variety here folks. My high school friend Joy, donated squares 2, 8, 11, 20, 21, 23, and 24. Start counting in the top left corner, come back to the left each time, and completely jump over the 3 smaller squares in the lower right as you count. Our good friend MarieAnne(edited 4-12-12 to change AnneMarie to MarieAnne) donated squares 4-12-14-18-25- and 28. Niki provided square #22. The 3 little squares in the right lower left were from long ago...I believe before Bridge and Beyond when someone donated items from a group that disbanded. And square #27, the one with the heart from Susan. The other squares I'm not able to identify, but believe many of them are from some time back. If you find your square/squares here...sing out and let me know. The blue yarn used to edge and join came from my stash, and from Beth who donated some blue yarn. I didn't have enough without putting the 2 together (even though they are not exactly the same), as this afghan took about 24 oz to come together. Afghans made with a variety of sizes always take more yarn to pull them together. This afghan has big and little squares, knitted and crocheted squares, granny and sampler squares, and some rectangles too. Some of the pieces are knitted, though the bulk are crocheted.

**Reminder folks...squares should be no smaller then 7 x 7. Squares can be 8 x 8, 9 x 9, or 10 x 10. Please measure your squares. The more uniform squares are the quicker I can assemble an afghan to keep someone warmed and give them hope. Please remember to shy aware from white and off white as much as possible, and use ONLY washable acrylic knitted worsted yarn. Please check the working calendar to see when to mail squares.**

2012 Donations:
Hats: 236
Scarves: 139
Slippers: 62+2=64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18+1=19
Mittens: 133
Squares: 203
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's10
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**also folks if you scroll backi Beach Ball, Day at the Beach, and Funky Fall were edited to show the bulk of the squares coming off the hook and talented fingers of AnneMarie**

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!

Two Boxes of Goodies Donated

Box 1, 12 pairs of gloves, 3 scarves, and 9 hats from our good friend Gail B. Many thanks Gail for your on going support. I love the aqua/turquoise blend scarf, very pretty.
Box 2 held 6 more scarves, and long johns (top and bottom). What a wonderful and thoughtful donation Gail. I opened a box, took a photograph...then opened another box (had several that day), then realized you had a 2nd box...thus the 2 pictures. The scarves are nice a long for adults to wrap multiple times...that means they're good and warm. Love large scarves, Gail, many thanks!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 227+9=236
Scarves: 130+9=139
Slippers: 64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 121+12=133
Squares: 203
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 10
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Please check working calendar for updates for items being highlighted for a month. Typically that's reflective of our greatest need, and or an item that's been requested by the various groups we help.

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!

Local Donations touch many Needs

This local donation hits many needs. Socks and slippers to warm cold feet, mittens to warm cold hands, rain coats to ward off the aliments and chap stick to sooth dry cold cracked lips from being old doors.

Many thanks Theresa A., a fellow Ohioan. Theresa actually is close by, almost a neighbor. One of these days perhaps we'll get to meet face to face. I always consider that a bonus.

Hope to see you often here on Bridge and Beyond, and am very happy to have you join us. Keep up the good work, Theresa.

**Continuing to work on our map, locations of our donators. Reviewing the list of those who donate with blogs the following are people I still need to add a location to. PLEASE folks let me know what state your from so we can update the map.
Angela, Rebecca, Ghost, Krystine, Marushka, Peggy, Susan, and Jason**

2012 Donations:
Hats: 227
Scarves: 130
Slippers: 62+2=64
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120+1=121
Squares: 203
Socks: 102+4=106
Rain Poncho's 2+8=10
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Please check working calendar for updates for items being highlighted for a month. Typically that's reflective of our greatest need, and or an item that's been requested by the various groups we help.

**Looking to connect with a Debra T from Missouri, if you're out there reading this, please make contact via comment below and leave your email ady, or contact me directly at sandycrochet@gmail.com**

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 from your Donated Squares

These 24 squares made me think of Iris and Lillies in the early Spring. I am one square off...but I feel like it works. How bout you? This will probably be edged and joined in off white...though I will check my purple and yellow to see if I have the right shades in my stash to go that route. Stay tuned. Thought he picture is a bit blurred and the darkest color may not look it here...it is purple. These are all crocheted granny style squares...3 different styles (except for the one different square). These squares were donated by Joy, Diana K., and Jennifer S. They also made me think of an Easter Basket, though I didn't name it that...doubted that I would have it finished by Easter.
These squares were (42) donated by AnneMarie, (edited to say AnneMarie vs Liz), you might remember her huge mound. I'm naming this one Funky Fall. Hoping to join in the orange...provided I have enough. Told you I had a design frenzy recently....should have seen me throwing around all your squares. I took up the whole living room and them some as I sorted designed, changed, moved here and there..........all the while talking to myself. lol Seriously!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 227
Scarves: 130
Slippers: 62
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Please check working calendar for updates for items being highlighted for a month. Typically that's reflective of our greatest need, and or an item that's been requested by the various groups we help.

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!

Thank you Elizabeth R for your Donation

Elizabeth from California, please email me sandycrochet@gmail.comThis is the 2nd wonderful donation received from Eliz. R from CA (Mariposa). Her first donation is still listed on the unidentified. Her donation HERE

Would love you to contact me, I need your email for my records. I wasn't able to email you with your previous donation to let you know it arrived, nor have I found you since then. 10 wonderful matching sets of hats and scarves in a variety of colors, all so nicely made. Some of the hats have earflaps, some are Tobagon style. All are nice and warm. Many thanks Elizabeth for your thoughtful donation.


2012 Donations:
Hats: 217+10=227
Scarves: 120+10=130
Slippers: 62
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Please check working calendar for updates for items being highlighted for a month. Typically that's reflective of our greatest need, and or an item that's been requested by the various groups we help.

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 Thinking Beach

I've been showing you some of the ghans I've designed using your donated knitted and crocheted squares off and on over the last month from when I had a design "frenzy". I dumped ALL the containers of squares I had on had from your donations and separated by color and started tossing squares here there and everywhere. I designed...I think 10 afghans. Some you've already seen the designs, some have already been completed. Some are adult/family afghans some will be directed more towards the kids. Above will be titled Beach Ball. It will probably be joined with pink, maybe off white, though am leaning pink at the moment. Time will tell. All these 25 squares are crocheted, all are granny style, though vary by maker and size a wee bit. These colors made me think of bright colored cheery and fun beach ball, thus the name. I know many of these squares are from our good friend AnneMarie; there others I'm not sure about. Are your squares here? Take a look, let me know if they are.
Still, bright and cheery and colorful.........still thinking about the beach and warm fun days I'm calling this one a Day at the Beach. These 16 squares are from our from AnneMarie lightening hook. Don't they remind you of being on the beach. I almost always shy away from white...true white...but might edge and join these in white? Still thinking...maybe offwhite. Stay tuned.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 217
Scarves: 120
Slippers: 62
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

With the number of squares still on hand, I'm not anticipating highlighting a month for squares anytime soon. If you like making them, please do and set them aside. I'll let you know when I have room again for another batch. If you're mailing other items and want to save money by including them, feel free to do so.

**Please folks ALWAYS include a note with your donations that includes your name, your email ady and group we're in together (if that's how we know each other). It truly isn't possible for me to know and remember everyone over the number of years Bridge and Beyond has been in existence. I spend lots of HOURS, looking through emails, facebook friends, Rav friend, friends on The Hive and in The Ville; as well as yahoo mailing groups to try and identify donations without the information. I have no way of knowing if you want to be anonymous...if I knew that I could spend the time knitting and crocheting vs searching and searching. I do like to be able to let you know your donations have arrived safely and to be able to thank you. So PLEASE PLEASE, even if you want to be anonymous, include a note for me stating that. I fear when I can't make the identification, people just feel I'm not acknowledging their donations. That's not my choice. I want you to know your donation has been received, and that's it appreciated. There are times when after looking multiple days, and spending lots of hours I book something as unknown, and weeks later, I'll receive an email asking if their donations arrived. They feel bad, and I've wasted time. When your donation comes with a return address label with your husband's name...it's a good possibility, I don't know it's you. Additionally, the people who use nicknames in groups, and or fun names in their emails ady's typically don't come up in search when I plug in your real name (from the label) to find you. Please save the frustration at my end, and YOURS, include a note.

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!

Sensational Slippers Donated

11 pairs of Sensational Slippers knitted and donated by our Friend, Sue F. These are awesome. A variety of colors, and sizes. They are nice and thick, made with double yarn (the ones with the taller cuff...sock like style), with a couple of the footie type style as well. sue included two neoprene headbands and Balaclava ,(helmut liner). I'll be adding her pattern for that to the blog as some point...what a nice warm item that would be.

Sue used the slipper patterns posted here on the blog. Sock type, and footie type. Please click in the slipper tab for the pattern.

Many thanks Sue for your on going support, we truly appreciate it. Keep up the good work.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 217
Scarves: 120
Slippers: 51+11=62
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Please folks ALWAYS include a note with your donations that includes your name, your email ady and group we're in together (if that's how we know each other). It truly isn't possible for me to know and remember everyone over the number of years Bridge and Beyond has been in existence. I spend lots of HOURS, looking through emails, facebook friends, Rav friend, friends on The Hive and in The Ville; as well as yahoo mailing groups to try and identify donations without the information. I have no way of knowing if you want to be anonymous...if I knew that I could spend the time knitting and crocheting vs searching and searching. I do like to be able to let you know your donations have arrived safely and to be able to thank you. So PLEASE PLEASE, even if you want to be anonymous, include a note for me stating that. I fear when I can't make the identification, people just feel I'm not acknowledging their donations. That's not my choice. I want you to know your donation has been received, and that's it appreciated. There are times when after looking multiple days, and spending lots of hours I book something as unknown, and weeks later, I'll receive an email asking if their donations arrived. They feel bad, and I've wasted time. When your donation comes with a return address label with your husband's name...it's a good possibility, I don't know it's you. Additionally, the people who use nicknames in groups, and or fun names in their emails ady's typically don't come up in search when I plug in your real name (from the label) to find you. Please save the frustration at my end, and YOURS, include a note.


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!

Toothbrushes Donated by Dentists

72 Toothbrushes...........36 for adults and 36 for children from Sylvania, Georgia. Through the efforts of our friend, Diana K the dental group, C. Howard Hagan & Craig Martinson group have gathered and donated toothbrushes. The shelters and those living in the street will be thrilled. Some of the brushes are plain, some are printed with Dr's Buddy Smith, Kyle Smith, and Richard Gentzler, III. Thank you all! Think how much better you feel when you get to brush your teeth, not too mention the added benefit of better health.

Diana was talking about our group, and it's cause while visiting her Dentist and this is the wonderful result. Thank you Diana for helping to spread the word. It's greatly appreciated.

Personal Care items are always needed for men, women, and children.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 217
Scarves: 120
Slippers: 51
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts 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!

Colorful Scarves Donated

Many thanks Paula K. for your on going support of Ohio's homeless and others in need. We greatly appreciate it. Look at these colorful scarves, remember to click if you want to enlarge the picture. Notice the scarf on the far right...look at the detail, isn't that cute. Very nice Paula, keep up the good work.
Thought I take a 2nd photo of this scarf for you. She's added a cute flower, but also an additional stripe color to really make it pop!
2012 Donations:
Hats: 217
Scarves: 114+6=120
Slippers: 51
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)


*Spend some time on the blog, look around, there's probably a post you've not seen...a neat project you've missed*

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!

GemStone Afghan Completed and Donated

Enjoyed putting this afghan together from our friend, Liz's squares. This one is Gem Stones, loved the colors together. I assembled this one a little bit different in that I didn't edge the individual squares. I joined them with the blue and used the blue for the border. 1/3rd of of the squares were shades of blue; thus my selection. It's a smoky blue which I thought picked up the shades of the various blues. Often I add edges to the squares to enlarge them, or to make them fit together better; or because I don't have that many of a particular type of square, and sometimes I think it gives it a more finished look....however, without doing the edge this one is still nicely sized 56 x 46. And it was quicker to assemble. Would be interested in your thoughts, since this was a first.
Not sure why, but the 2nd picture shows it more true to the colors, they were deep tones. Wanted to show you the back, since this is a first without edging the squares prior to joining them; so you see what you think of this different method of joining.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 217
Scarves: 114
Slippers: 51
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 17+1=18
Mittens: 120
Squares: 203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts 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!

Squares and Sweaters Donated from Colorado

Thank you Martha M., our newest pair of helping hands. Martha hails from the state of Colorado. Look at these adorable sweaters for kids. Remember you can always click to enlarge the photo's in order to see them better. In addition to the sweaters, she's donated 2 hats, and 32 knitted squares. Many thanks Martha, we're thrilled to have you join us here on Bridge and Beyond, and hope to see you again, soon.

Here's a bit of a close up of the 2 adorable sweaters, both knitted. Martha, love know what patterns you used for these adorable sweaters.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 215+2=217
Scarves: 114
Slippers: 51
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 1+2=3
Vest 1
Afghans: 17
Mittens: 120
Squares: 171+32=203
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 27
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

Have you looked around the blog lately? If not please do. Information always changes, additional tabs across the top of the blog with item specific information as to size and color requirements, as well as patterns. In addition the working calendar is always being updated for those who like to know what we'll be highlighting each month.

While you're looking around, take time to admire each other's work, and please leave comments; so we know you were here. Remember you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments, simply click the drop down box after typing your comment and select name and url, leave the url space empty. We encourage all to leave comments, even those who are a bit shy...it's easy, give it try.

**Tomorrow we usher in the month of April. Traditionally April is the rainy month and so we will once again highlight Rain Ponchos, and Cotton Washcloths. Washcloths should be sized for adults, can be knitted or crocheted and are distributed between 3 family shelters; as well as those adults living outdoors.**

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!