New Help from Pennsyslvania

WOOT WOOT folks, we're on a roll.  Another new pair of helping hands.  That always makes me happy to know we're reaching more people out there in internet land AND that so many are willing and able to help us with caring for Ohio's Homeless through our knitted and crocheted donations.  AWESOME!!

The above donation comes from Justin R from the state of Pennsylvania.  Welcome to the group, Justin; we're thrilled to have you join us. 

Justin has crocheted hats, scarves, and fingerless gloves.  You may not be able to tell that's what the smaller items bundled are.  Thanks for tagging them Justin, appreciate it.


Donations: 2012
Hats 737+6=743
Scarves: 487+2=489
Slippers: 144
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 479
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 450
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc)

**Wow, another month has passed us by, it sure goes quickly.  With October ending and November starting tomorrow we switch our highlighted item from mittens to squares.  However, since our numbers for mittens is always low, let's highlight those again this month along with squares.  I still have lots of squares, so if you're trying to decide which item to make, please consider making mittens. **

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!

Special Delivery for the Homeless

Awesome donation Sherry K.  Sherry and I have tried to connect a couple of time but have different schedules, so we've still not been able to have a face to face meet up.  We will keep trying, and eventually we will make it.!  Sherry hand delivered these to my door step the other day.  Look how awesome, hats, slippers, and cotton washcloths!  All beautifully made and so very much needed and appreciated.

And, a special thank you for labeling your hats, and slippers!  AWESOME.  Keep up the good work Sherry.  Looking forward to being able to meet each other, we just need life to slow down a bit so can mesh our schedules.

Donations: 2012
Hats 720+17=737
Scarves: 487
Slippers: 138+6=144
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 479
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 444+6=450
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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 will warm the Homeless

Six awesome knitted hats from our friend Marie P being donated.  They're so nicely made, warm, soft, and stretchy.  Thank you for your on going support of our cause, it's much appreciated.  Special thanks for the wonderful tagging you've done.  Folks, if you've not done previously, please do so with your next donation.

Sizing is an issue.  So labeling them helps them reach the right group of people easier and quicker.  You know what size you made based on your pattern, or simply what size you intended to make; but it's not always that easy for the person at the other end to know if it should be for a teen or adult etc.  So, many thanks to those who've started tagging.  These tags with string work really well.

Donations: 2012

Hats 714+6=720
Scarves: 487
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 479
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 444
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Thank you Texas for your Donation

A new pair of helping hands from San Antonio, Texas.  Awesome.  Love having new folks and their helping hands join in to help care for Ohio's Homeless.  Linda J. has both knitted and crocheted items here in her donation.  Most of the squares are knitted corner to corner, though there are a few crocheted granny style squares too.  Believe the hat and scarf are both crocheted.

Thank you Linda J, hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.  Welcome to the group.  As a group, we accomplish so much.  Made 2 deliveries last week, and another 2 this am.  Though this post is written and scheduled, so by the time this post is read, perhaps other delivers will be made.

Donations: 2012

Hats 713+1=714
Scarves: 486+1=487
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 461+18=479
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 444
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder folk squares should be mailed during the month of November, please check our working calendar to know what item is being highlighted each month.  Though most items are collected all year long, squares should only be mailed during the month they are highlighted.  It's helpful with my storage, thanks.  If you have any questions not answered in the square tab on top of the blog, please let me know.  You'll find necessary information about color, size, fiber etc in the square 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!

Another Afghan for Project Welcome Home

 Real happy with the end result of this afghan, Sandbox for our project Welcome Home.  Squares from lots of folks, can you find yours in the picture?  Off the top of my head, I know quite a few are from my high school friend, Joy...but there's others as well.  Here it is, laid out drying and being blocked a bit.  (The next time squares will be collected is during the up coming month of November.  Please only send squares that measure 8 x 8 during the specific months I highlight them.  It gives me the ability to catch up a bit and not be over whelmed with squares that need to be stored.  Also, please remember squares must be made from acrylic or washable wool only.  No novelty yarn, or wool, or cotton, or other fibers.  Please avoid white, off-white, beige etc.)

** Reminding everyone to check the tabs across the top of the blog for the items you're making.  Lots of details can be found, as well as patterns you might like to use**

Donations: 2012

Hats 713
Scarves: 486
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34+1=35
Mittens: 278
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 444
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Sweet Sixteen Scarves, that is

 Sweet Sixteen came to mind when I arranged these 16 crocheted scarves from our good friend and long time supporter, Gail B.  Gail always does beautiful work.  Look at the variety of colors, sizes, and stitches.  Sweet!  Many thanks Gail, please keep up the good work.

** Reminding everyone to check the tabs across the top of the blog for the items you're making.  Lots of details can be found, as well as patterns you might like to use**

Donations: 2012

Hats 713
Scarves: 470+16=486
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 4
Vest 1
Afghans: 34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 444
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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 State of Texas help Ohioans

 Look at this haul folks.  Scarves, hats, cotton washcloths, a poncho, a shawl, and 2 afghans!  Woot Woot, she me doing a happy dance.  Look again, cause I'm definitely dancing.  This wonderful donation comes from a new pair of helping hands from the state of Texas.  Not only is Maria Teresa R a new pair of helping hands for us here on Bridge and Beyond, she is a newbie knitting wise.  I don't know about you, but in my book....she's got the knack!

 Wanted to show you a close up of this knitted scarf...love, love the colors.  Doesn't it look perfect for this time of year with all it's yummy Autumness.  (not really a word, but seems like it should be)

Here you can see a close up of the heart in her blanket/afghan suitable for a young girl with the pretty pastels.  To the right upper corner in the first photo, you'll see a black and purple adult sized afghan.  Very nice!

Donations: 2012

Hats 711+2=713
Scarves: 459+11=470
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 3+1=4
Vest 1
Afghans: 32+2=34
Mittens: 278
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 438+6=444
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

More Help for Ohio's Homeless from the State of Florida

Look at this wonderful donation from another pair of helping hands....our newest pair from the sunny state of Florida!  Welcome Sandra R.  Wonderful knitted and I think some crocheted as well, items including hats, scarves and mittens.  You know how excited I always get when we get mittens.

Love Love the hats Sandra.  Believe I'd like to add another pattern to our hat area.  Your hats with the ribbed brim are nice and warm and stretchy, which is always something that makes fitting different sized heads easier.

We're thrilled to have you join us, and look forward to seeing you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

Donations: 2012

Hats 703+8=711
Scarves: 445+14=459
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 276+2=278
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 438
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Helping Hands from Minnesota for Ohio's Homeless

 This is box # 1, you may have to click to see everything.  There are hats, scarves, and headbands in many different colors and sizes.  This donation pile comes to us here in Ohio, from new helping hands.  Meet, our newest pair of helping hands from Minnesota.  She wishes to remain anonymous; but I hope you'll help me welcome her.  So, many thanks "Minnesota Helping Hands".  We're thrilled to have you helping the cause of helping Homeless here in Ohio.

 When I opened the 2nd box, I though there must be a better way for you to see things, so...believe I got a little smart laying out this donation of scarves from our newest member.  Nice sizes and colors here for our men folk!

 And since I liked the new idea I had when I opened boxed 2, I did the same thing here for you with box 3.  You can see from her variety of colors and sizes she has something for everyone.  Well done, and again thank you and WELCOME.

Donations: 2012

Hats 699+4=703
Scarves: 358+87=445
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 276
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 438
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Thanks for letting me know your name, but that you wished to be anonymous**

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!

Many Hats for Ohio's Homeless

 More cute, stretchy knitted hats from our friends down in Florida.  Barbie T and her friends in the Gesher Chapter.  Such a nice way to spend time in friendship together, knitting to make others warm.  Got a nice burst of sunshine too ladies when I opened your box, lol.  Much appreciated.  If only I could keep it going and going and going.

The ribbed hats like this are so versatile for sizing due to their stretch.  These are for kids and teens...can you see a bunch of smiling faces when they put these on!  I know I can.

Keep up the good work ladies.

Donations: 2012

Hats 683+16=699

Scarves: 358
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 276
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 438
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Creative, Colorful Crochet being Donated

Cute and colorful, as all the donations from our friend RoseMarie are.  Cute decorations on her hats as always.  I call them her signature mark.  She's also included some cotton washcloths which are always s big hit, and some head bands.

Click to make the photo larger, I want you to see the cute little bags she crocheted.  She's not intending them to be soap bags but a little bag people can put a few things in.  She's included a bar of soap in each little bag, and I added a couple of deodorants previously donated.  Both fit nicely into the cute crocheted draw string bag.  I bet even a toothbrush might fit in there.  Clever idea RoseMarie.  As always, many thanks for your on going support, and your creativity!

Keep up the good work.

I know the ladies will be appreciative of your work.

Donations: 2012

Hats 679+4=683

Scarves: 357+1=358
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters& Ponchos: 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 276
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 434+4=438
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Helping Ohio's Homeless and others in need is possible because of good folks, like RoseMarie**

 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!

Sharing a Hat Pattern

Folks a few days ago (16th), you saw some hats...lots of knitting ones from Barbie T and her chapter in Florida (          ).  I know many of you a pattern very similar if not this one and I wanted to post it here (as well as in the hat section...see hat tab at the top of the blog).

It's such a versatile pattern good for many sized heads due to it's stretch.  Geri, another lady in the group provided the pattern for me in an email.

Adult's cast on 96, teens cast on 68.

K2, P2 across row
knit above rib pattern for 9 1/2 inches
begin decrease with K2tog across row
Purl next row
Repeat last 2 rows (the decrease rows) 3 x......Bind Off leaving enough yarn to stitch up your side seam.

Add topper if you wish, though it's not necessary; and probably preferred for most adult hats, certainly plain is best for the men folk.

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!

Please and Thank You

It's that time of year folks.  Though this is a pretty picture with leaf color and the sun shinny brightly, it's not the way it often looks here in Central Ohio.  The sun sometimes isn't seen for days, it can be gray, damp, and quite cool during the day.  At night it gets COLD, and in the morning it's frosty.  Not pleasant conditions if you don't have a roof over your head.  Not pleasant conditions if you're living a night here or there in a shelter, or even staying in a temporary shelter.  Please gear up folks.  Pull out your stash and warm up your crochet hooks and knitting needles.

But, before you do; please do read the requirements for size, color and yarn type.  Whether you're making a hat, a scarf, a pair of mittens or slippers it is important that you read what to avoid. Each item has it's own tab across the top of the blog with necessary information.  As the blog has grown and the number of people donating grows so does the need for our donations to meet the need.  White, off white, beige should ALWAYS be avoided.  They show dirt easily.  People living outdoors, or in temporary shelters do not have the ability to do laundry.  I do sometimes use off white, tan, beige etc when joining afghans because it's often the color the brings things together.  However, afghans are given as a house warming gifts when people move out of the shelters into permanent housing...at that time laundry is less of an issue.

You'll also find information about size in the tabs across the top of the blog as well.  I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone scarves need to be of sufficient size.  Generally speak no shorter then 4 feet for children and around 6 feet for adults.

Regardless what you're making, or whether you're a long time supporter or a new pair of helping hands to Bridge and Beyond, PLEASE read and comply with the requirements.  Many of the requirements have changed over time.

Thank you, and now..........I return you to your ball of 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!

Mother and Daughter Donation

Send some good wishes to our friend Liz (minnisoda over on the ville), she's been going through crochet withdrawl.  Something I know we can all relate to.  She's had a pinched nerve and hasn't been able to play with hook for awhile.  Get better soon Liz.

She's easing back into it though (don't over do), and with the help of daughter, Lindsay E also from Minnesota, who's a knitter compiled this nice donation of hats, mittens, scarves, and cotton washcloths.  Love the texture in the tan scarf, check it out, and you know how excited I always get when we get mittens....Thank you Liz and daughter, Lyndsay.  Keep up the good work.

Welcome aboard Lyndsay, happy to have more helping hands.

Donations: 2012

Hats 676+3=679

Scarves: 353+4=357
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274+2=276
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 431+3=434
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies 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!

From the Sunny Shore of Florida

 Barbie T and her friend Gesher H have been knitting up a storm.  Look at the hats.  33 hats, all knitted with the stretchy ribbing that's so great for fitting lots of heads.  They look small when you look at them, but they are quite stretchy and so have a good range of heads they'll fit.  Stella hasn't modeled for us in very long time; and she's quite put out about it too. Stella and I have the same sized heads so most of these hats will fit kids and teens, and perhaps adult women like me with a small head.  She's also included 2 warm scarves.

Love the variety of colors in the hats too, click to enlarge to see them all.  Thank you Barbara and friends for your support, keep up the good work. 

Donations: 2012

Hats 643+33=676

Scarves: 351+2=353
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 431
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Folks I have 2 blog posts here I really need everyone to read 10-8 Importance of Identifying your Donation, and  10-10 What size are you Knitting or Crocheting.  If you've not read those posts, 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!

Donations Keep People Warm

Guess who donated all these goodies.  Come on...guess.  Bet you're able to tell that it's our good friend and faithful supporter, AnneMarie from New York.  She got the idea last year about these hand and foot warmers....what a great great idea.  In the above donation are 2 dozen pair of socks which you know are always a hit, 10 of the hand and feet warmers that our men living outside in the elements will be thrilled to get, and 27 wonderful cotton washcloths.  I also add some of those to our bag of goods for our Bridge folks, and to distribute others to 3 family shelters.  They LOVE getting those cotton washcloths.  It's an item everyone needs all year long, summer-winter-spring or fall.

Thank you AnneMarie, as always keep up the good work.

Donations: 2012

Hats 643

Scarves: 351
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169+24=193
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404+27=431
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, hand and foot warmers Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Folks I have 2 blog posts here I really need everyone to read 10-8 Importance of Identifying your Donation, and  10-10 What size are you Knitting or Crocheting.  If you've not read those posts, 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!

New Helping Hands from Michigan

Clapping for more helping hands!  Thank you Robyn B from Michigan, our newest pair of helping hands.  We're thrilled to have you join us with awesome crocheted goodies.  Hats of varying sizes and colors...excellent.  My favorite scarf is the variegated one on the left of the screen...it's nice and big.  Thank you so much Robyn, and please keep up the good work.  

Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond. 

**Reminder squares should only be mailed during the month they are highlighted, at least until I catch up a bit.  I'll sing out to let you know if that changes.  November will be the next time squares can be mailed.**

Donations: 2012

Hats 632+11=643

Scarves: 347+4=351
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Thank You from Faith Mission

Though I know most of us don't knit, or crochet or donate our hand made goodies to receive a thank you or a pat on the back; I wanted to share this hand written thank you from Faith Mission.  For those who may not know, we've been donating hand knit and hand crocheted items to Faith Mission for over 3 years.  They take care of so many in need.  They have a men's only shelter that gives nights here and there to those on the street, they have Nancy Place for women in need with disabilities, and they operate several family shelters.  They care for many, and I pleased we've been able to continue to support them and their worthy cause with our items made of love.  Each hat, scarf, pair of mittens or slippers truly is appreciated.

Keep up the good work folks.

**Reminder squares should now only be mailed during the month they are highlighted, at least until I catch up a bit.  I'll sing out to let you know if that changes.  November will be the next time squares can be mailed.**

Donations 2012:

 Hats: 632

Scarves: 347
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies 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!

Sandbox isn't Child's Play

2012 Donations:
Hats: 632

**Looking for a John R. from Minneapolis, or his wife.  If you're out there, please make contact, leave a comment here on the blog with your email addy, or email me directly at sandycrochet@gmail.com...yet another unidentified donation**

Been awhile since I've shown you the fruits of your labors folks with regard to your donated squares.  These squares come from a variety of people.  I know off the top of my head quite a few of the crocheted granny style squares come from my high school classmate, Joy, but there are others both knitted and crocheted.  Some of these squares vary a bit in size as they were made before I changed the size requirements.  Currently plan is to do 1 row of variegated in the granny stitch around the true granny style squares, then measure them to see how much more needs to be added to the sampler style crocheted squares, and the knitted corner to corner squares for things to fit together.  My quess is the other squares are going to need about 3 rows of stitching...but, we'll see as time continues.  I've named this afghan Sandbox with shades of brown and perhaps the blue represents the sky.  This afghan will be donated to Homeless Families Foundation, as all our afghans are for Project Welcome Home.

**Reminder squares should now only be mailed during the month they are highlighted, at least until I catch up a bit.  I'll sing out to let you know if that changes.  November will be the next time squares can be mailed.**

Donations 2012:
Hats: 632
Scarves: 347
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

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 Size are You Knitting or Crocheting?

What size you knitting or crocheting?  The hat you're working on to donate...what size is it?  Are you making an adult hat, a child's hat, a hat to fit a teen?  If you're following a pattern, you'll know immediately what size it's intended for; but I don't.  I used to try hats on when I opened a box of donations; not all hats, but those that you can clearly see aren't for a large male...I have a small head and if a hat fits me, it's generally good for a teen or a child.  That was my way of telling which bag to put it in.  I tried to separate and label bags for kids, female adults, or male adults.  That took time, and wasn't very exact; but ...that was before we grew so much.  I love that we've grown.  Growing has given as the ability here on Bridge and Beyond to help more people....and plenty need our help.  But....growth has made the above scenario impractical.

PLEASE, tag your hats with the size you made.  If you're one who doesn't use a pattern, what size do you think you're making?  Please keep in mind we do not collect or donate baby items.  We need adult sizing for both males and females, male and female teens, and male and female children's sizes.  There is a chart that might be helpful to you on the top of the blog...just click the hat tab.

Mittens, and slippers also need sizes.  Again, kids, teens, and adults both sexes. 

Let's take the guessing out of our donations.  If they come to me un-tagged...I guess what the size they look like...that's done again at the various shelters.  Most of the shelters are staffed with volunteers, who work limited hours.  If items are properly tagged they're able to get them in the hands of those in need quicker.

Please avoid pins (both straight and safety).  I've gotten stuck a few times, and would hate to think anyone at the other end might.  I do try and remove and replace them; but no doubt I've not gotten them all.  Tag with string or yarn and small paper tag.  No need to be fancy, just a plain white tag is dandy.  Some use those actual tags with string attach which work well, and a few have been creative and used their pinking sheers and or zigzag scissors from their scrapbook supplies to cut little squares...punch a hole and put yarn through..........either method works well.

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!

New Helping Hands for Ohio's Homeless

More helping hands!  Thank you Kathy U from West Virginia for your thoughtful donation of crocheted and knitted warm goodies for our homeless and those in need here in Ohio.  Kathy is our newest pair of helping hands, we're thrilled to have you join us and look forward to seeing more of creations here on Bridge and Beyond.

Remember to click all pictures folks to enlarge them to see them better.  3 matching sets of hats and scarves and 4 additional scarves from our new friend Kathy U.

Welcome, and hope to see  you here often.  Please keep up the good work.


2012 Donations:
Hats: 628+3=632
Scarves: 340+7=347
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

****Reminder PLEASE folks read details regarding size and color for the items you're knitting and crocheting.  Squares should only be 8 x 8****


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!

Idenify your Donations, It's IMPORTANT

Let me take this time to express how appreciative I am of everyone who donates.  Some knit, some crochet, some do both; but all the donations are truly needed and very much appreciated.  I'm thrilled beyond words to see the blog and it's mission continuing since it's early beginnings back in Dec of 2008.  Lots of blog posts, lots of pictures of wonderful donations, and lots of helping hands in that period of time.

With the wonderful growth of the blog and it's mission however, come a few problems.  when we were small I could remember everyone I got an email from and had little trouble identifying donations when they arrived.  Today, however that's not the case.  Though a nice problem to have (the growth that is), it's quite time consuming to receive donations with out notes identifying who they're from.  There are several issues associated with an unknown donation:

1. The obvious is to list a name on the blog with the donation, to be able to thank someone via email when the donation arrives.  
2. Accidents happen.  The donation arrives damaged.  Yes, this has happened.  Accidents occur sometimes when a box is damaged.  Sometimes the item arrives unraveled, torn...I need to be able to let someone know.
3. The donation isn't something suitable for our mission of keeping people warm in Central Ohio.  Lacy, white, non-washable items for example.  Or perhaps for babies vs adults, teens, and children.  I know though the information is listed on the blog, not everyone reads all the details listed on the item specific tabs across the top of the blog.  It's wasteful of time and money for people to send items unknowingly.  I need to be able to communicate that to them.  
4. With so many people using nicknames, avatars etc on Facebook, Twitter, Yahoo Groups, Ravelry, Crochetville and their blogs, I may not know who you are when the return mailing address says Mrs. George Smith.  I'm therefore not able to find you in my database, email contact list, or any of the above groups.  I've spent hours sometimes trying to identify the donation.  That takes away important time for me to knit or crochet, to post here on the blog, to continue to search for ways to promote the cause so that we might help more people in need.
5. It's important for me to be able to communicate problems in order to maintain integrate of the blogs mission. 

All donations must include a note with your name, and your email address.  Even if you wish to be anonymous on the blog, I need to know who you are and where the donation came from.  I am delivering items from all over the United States and Abroad to multiple shelters.  There are some safety issues involved making it necessary to know where the items have come from. 

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!

Help comes from The Sunshine State

 Thank you Linda in Florida for this thoughful donation of scarves and hats and cowls.  So very much appreciated and, as you know very much needed here in Central Ohio.  As I write this scheduled post, I'm sitting here with a sweatshirt zipped up in the house and am still a bit cold.  Fall is truly upon us.

There was a little bit of room left in your box and searched to see if you'd packaged any sunshine for us....must have forgotten, lol.

Keep up the good work, Linda.

 2012 Donations:
Hats: 626+2=628
Scarves: 329+11=340
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

****Reminder PLEASE folks read details regarding size and color for the items you're knitting and crocheting.  Squares should only be 8 x 8****

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!

A Matching Set is Donated

Awesome scarf and hat set crocheted by a long time and good friend, Sandie in Louisiana.  Love the detail/texture she's created by using what looks like cables in her crocheted set; believe they are front and back post double or triple crochets?  Many thanks Sandie for your support and your friendship.

Keep up the good work.


 2012 Donations:
Hats: 625+1=626
Scarves: 328+1=329
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 274
Squares: 461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

****Reminder PLEASE folks read details regarding size and color for the items you're knitting and crocheting.  Squares should only be 8 x 8****

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!

Tipping my Hat to lady in Wyoming

 Thank you unknown knitter from Wyoming.  5 nice warm crocheted hats, and 8 squares.  This picture turned out a bit dark, but I hope you can see the Buckeye Colors for 3 of the hats, camo for the other 2; and the squares are a dark brown and the colorful variegated.  I appreciate your thoughtful donation.  No note accompanied this donation so if you're out there, please sing out so I add your name etc to our list of helping hands.  There was a return address so I know it's from Wyoming, but would like to have additional information.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 620+5=625
Scarves: 328
Slippers: 138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32

Mittens: 274
Squares: 453+8=461
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

****Reminder PLEASE folks read details regarding size and color for the items you're knitting and crocheting.  Squares should only be 8 x 8****


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, Scarves and More for Ohio Homeless

Thank you Dorothy M from Virginia for your continued support of our homeless here Ohio.  We appreciate you and your thoughtfulness!  Look at these fabulous mittens (5), scarves (2), slippers (2), cotton washclothes, hats, and personal items!  Everything is so nicely made AND special thanks Dorothy for tagging sizes on your donations.  I appreciate that alot and I know they (the volunteers) at the other end do as well.

Please keep up the good work Dorothy!


2012 Donations:
Hats: 619+1=620
Scarves: 326+2=328
Slippers: 136+2=138
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 32
Mittens: 269+5=274
Squares: 453
Socks: 169
Rain Poncho's 209
Cotton Washcloths 404
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, Teddy Bears and footies etc).

**Reminder to all to please check tabs across the top of the blog for suggested sizes, colors, and yarn type.  Don't miss the working calendar**

 ***If you're from Rock Springs Wyoming and sent a donation, please make contact by leaving a comment below and or email me please 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!