Keeping Ohio's Feet Warm

Thank you Yvonne for this great donation.  Cute knitted slippers and awesome warm socks.  That long neck on the sock will add to the warmth factor too.  Great idea.  I appreciate your tagging and pairing your slippers...very nice.

Keep up the good work Yvonne!

Folks, if you missed yesterdays post, please scroll back and read.  I've included a graph of how we're doing with each of the items we knit and crochet and donate and compared it to this time last year.


2013 Donations:

Hats:  388
Scarves: 314
Socks: 224
Afghans: 31
Slippers: 153+3=156
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 445
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls &and ; associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.

  All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

This Time Last Year

The daises are blooming like mad right now in my yard.  Some have gotten so full and big and heavy they're flopping over.  Need to tie them up; but aren't they beautiful?  I love pretty flowers and daisies make me smile.  Hope they do you too.

Wanted to let you all know how we're doing, where we were at this time last year.  Thought you find it perhaps inspiring to keep those hooks and needles flying through out the summer.  Also thought it might help you decide what you wanted to make.

As of today, June 29th here's where we are:
 

ITEM	NOW	LAST YEAR	PLUS/MINUS
Hats	388	451	-63
Scarves	314	252	+62
Socks	224	116	+108
Afghans	31	23	+8
Slippers	153	82	+71
Rain Ponchos	203	198	+5
Mittens	77	252	-175
Cotton Cloths	445	369	+76

 
You can see from the chart the only items we've knitted, crocheted and donated less of todate are Hats and Mittens.  I'm pleased to see, and hope you are too that we've knitted, crocheted and donated more of all other items!!  Awesome work folks, Thank You.



How fitting is it that we're moving from June to July's focus...and you guessed it the focus is mittens!  Mittens will be the focus for the next 2 months July and in August we'll double up with the focus being has and mittens.  Some time back we lost a page here when blogger was having some issues.  Sadly, that means we lost all our good information and patterns for mittens.  Please let me know what patterns you all use.  Currently we have only one pattern posted, a crochet one that is basic double crochets.  We need some reliable patterns to post folks.  Does anyone have a 2 needle knitted pattern they can share?

Things to remember when making mittens....no white, in fact avoid all light colors.  Mittens get dirty.  Mittens must be paired and tagged with size.  No open stitches, even with double crochet they're can be sometimes too much openness if you're not one that crochets tightly.  Please consider dropping down a hook size if you have loose tension so the mitt will be warmer. 



All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Two Boxes of Donations

Thank you Sue F for this awesome donation.  Wow, 2 boxes of donated goodies!  Sue knitted 3 pairs of fabulous slippers/booties.  Sue would love to post the pattern you use for these booties...so nice and warm.  She also knitted and crocheted 10 cotton washcloths in a variety of sizes, colors and styles (neat mix of stitches), and a fun and very cheery afghan.  Her afghan is made in the traditional corner to corner...Grandma's Favorite Dishcloth pattern.  She's then joined 6 large squares...very cool idea.

She's also forwarded some yarn, fun novelty yarn that will probably find it's way into another one of our give aways/contest since we don't use novelty yarns for our donations.  Stay tuned, we always have a contest of some sort during the summer months.

Thank you Sue for your thoughtful donation, please keep up the good work!

Added a new slipper pattern yesterday to the slipper tab from our good friend Tristi.  Please check it out.  How can you turn down something with the title of EASY Double Strand Slippers.  She says they go fast too.  What a plus fast and easy!  Thank you Trisit.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  388
Scarves: 314
Socks: 224
Afghans: 30+1=31
Slippers: 150+3=153
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 435+10=445
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls &and ; associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.




All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

The Reasons Why We Knit and Crochet

Another graphic I saw on Facebook recently I thought I'd share.  Certainly to keep calm and not kill people/ keep sane and not go crazy etc is something we all hear and see over and over again.  Though I had to laugh about the itchy wool !

Added a new slipper pattern yesterday to the slipper tab from our good friend Tristi.  Please check it out.  How can you turn down something with the title of EASY Double Strand Slippers.  She says they go fast too.  What a plus fast and easy!  Thank you Trisit.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  388
Scarves: 314
Socks: 224
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 150
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 435
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls &and ; associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Donations for Those Less Fortunate

Take a look at another awesome donation from our good friend Gail B from Virginia.  Gails has donated sandwich size zip log bags for Rae to use for her meal ministry.  She'll be thrilled to get these 500 bags along with the person care items.  In addition, Gail has crocheted cotton washcloths, scarves, and a hat...always wonderful.  She also donated some yarn.  Special thanks, and congrats on your new skill of crocheting in the round.  The hat is awesome and a perfect size.  I love it when people share how they've learned to do something new because of Bridge and Beyond.  I feel like that's a bonus we all get from encouraging and inspiring each other.

Thank you very much for your thoughtful donation, we all appreciate your on going support.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  387+1=388
Scarves: 305+9=314
Socks: 224
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 150
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 426+9=435
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls &and ; associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Taking Time to Help Those in Need, Priceless

Here's a wonderful donation from our good friend AnneMarie from New York.  AnneMarie hook's been busy making cotton washcloths, hats, and slippers.  Love the slippers Gail, what pattern did you use?  Love to add it to the slipper tab.  RoseMarie and I were just chatting the other day about a single crocheted vs double crocheted slipper as a means of making the slipper warmer and more sturdy.  Special thanks for tagging your hats and slippers with size!

AnneMarie also sent 2 dozen socks for both men and women, razors and forks.  Rae will be thrilled to have those items to help those she feeds that live outdoors!

Many thanks AnneMarie and please keep up the good work!

Busy hands are happy hands, and happy hands help people in need, thank you all for your on going support.  So many of you give so willing of your time and talents, I thank you all.


2013 Donations:


Hats:  384+3=387
Scarves: 305
Socks: 200+24=224
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 142+8=150
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 421+5=426
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls &and ; associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Sending Sunshine and Donations

Oh my goodness, I don't know what happened to this picture!  I wasn't aware that I moved, but something must have happened.  Sooooooo sorry it's soooooo blurry.  I did sharpening it a bit with the photo software.  This donation which in person is pretty, colorful and not blurry is from our friend Catherine W from the Sunshine State of Florida.  Thank you for your thoughtful donation and on going support.  Catherine crocheted hats, scarves, and 2 shawls.

Many thanks Catherine, please keep up the good work.

2013 Donations:


Hats:  377+7=384
Scarves: 293+12=305
Socks: 200
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 142
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 421
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 12+2=14
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls & associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Giving From the Heart Makes My Day

Thank you Rose Marie for your ongoing support and thoughtful donation.  Rose Marie has donated some hand wipe/facial cleaners things that will be a nice addition for our folks living out in the elements.  She's crocheted a couple of headbands, scarf and hat, slippers and cotton washcloths in addition to her personal care items.  Nicely done, and please Keep up the good work~

2013 Donations:


Hats:  376+1=377
Scarves: 292+1-293
Socks: 200
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 141+1=142
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 419+2=421
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 12
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls & associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Crocheted Donations Always Make Me Smile

Thank you Barbara F for your thoughtful donation of crocheted goodies and personal care items, AND yarn!  Very nice.  We appreciate your on going support and know your donation will be well received.  Barbara was recently on a business trip and saved her soap, shampoo's and lotions etc from her hotel room...that always a nice way to donate personal care items.

Keep up the good work Barbara!

Where does time go folks, goodness the month of June is flying by.  We're still having some cool nights and mornings here, not at all typical for this time of year.  We've spent alot of time opening and closing our windows, putting on fleece until the chills leaves in the morning...so do hope you're all still busy knitting and crocheting.  If you've not yet had a chance to make slippers...there's still time, please check the slipper tab for necessary information.  AND remember you can make slippers other times as well, not just for this month that it's a focus.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  374+2=376
Scarves: 289+3=292
Socks: 200
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 141
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 419
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 12
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls & associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Sharing Stories About Knitting and Crocheting

We've been enjoying reading stories from some of you who donate your knitting and crocheting for Ohio's Homeless and others in need.  If you've missed any, here's a chance to catch up on the fun, cute, and sweet stories about how folks learned their craft.

My story about Knitting and Crocheting is Here.

Sandie P's crochet story is HERE

Marjorie M's story is HERE

Sherry K's story is HERE

Tristi's story is HERE

Sue F's story is HERE

Sorry this picture is so blurry folks, but I took it from my yard as the sunset was waning using the zoom as far as it would go on my camera.  I thought the cross against the soon to be night sky was cool.  This is far enough from my house you couldn't through a ball that far, it's farther then a football field and is a block away and a street over to give you a feel.  It's not a scene we see often either, as the trees really fill in it's blocked out.

Where's your story?  I know you all have one.  Who taught you to knit or crochet?  How old were you?  Why did you learn?  We want details.  Send them my way via email sandycrochet at gmail.com and I'll share it so we can all enjoy it.

**There's still time left in June to focus on slippers, but for those who like to look ahead.  Mittens will be our focus for July.  I've added a few months to our working calendar, please check it out.  Some of you may remember we lost our whole page of mitten information and patterns.  Please send me links and or patterns (that don't break copyright issues) so we can rebuild our mitten page.**


2013 Donations:

Hats:  374
Scarves: 289
Socks: 200
Afghans: 30
Slippers: 141
Rain Ponchos: 203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 419
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 12
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls & associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Left Handed Knitted and Crocheting

Thought you all might enjoy some pretty flowers.  These are Tiger Lilly's in my side yard.  A few years ago Daddy brought me starts from his yard, as he was in need of thinning out.  Aren't they gorgeous!  This is last years picture, yesterday the first one opened for this season.  I love the color, and how much they've spread........so much so my SIL will be getting starts from me.  I also love that we're able to share things from his yard.

I've got another sweet story for you all about how, when, why etc people have learned to knit and or crochet.  I sure am enjoying reading and posting them for you, please keep them coming.  This story comes from Sue F.  Thanks so much Sue for sharing.

I learned to knit and crochet when I was about eight years old. Because I am left handed, my mother had trouble showing me how to knit. I think she must have showed me some of the basics, but then I used a book to learn the rest. What I remember about learning to knit is that I would knit all the stitches from my left needle to my right and then back again from right to left without moving the needle to my left hand. This created a natural stockinette stitch so I was confused when the book showed a sample of garter stitch which is what you are supposed to get when you knit every row. I continued knitting like this for a few days, probably just making a square or something, until my mom noticed my switch-hitting knitting and showed me the correct way. 

My father is actually the one who taught me to crochet because he is left handed. I don't think he taught me any fancy stitches, but he did show me how to hold the hook and make chain stitches and that was enough to get me started. 

Over the many years since I was eight years old I have gone from making misshapen afghans to all sorts of items. On a crazy day, sitting and knitting or crocheting for a few minutes helps to settle my thoughts and calm me down. 

Now that my family and friends have all the knitted items they could ever need, I am thankful to be able to send my items to you, knowing they will be put to good use. 

**Just a couple weeks left to get your slippers made folks, we never get enough slippers so hope you're all busy knitting and crocheting away.  Plus...they're a good item to work on when it's warm.  Slippers needed for Men, Women, and Children.  Please see slipper tab above for details**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

A Crocheters Story

 Saw this cute comic the other day on Facebook and thought I'd share it with you all.  While this may be about knitting the same holds true us crocheters too.  I'd be a rich person if I was paid for every-time I said, just one more...how bout you all?

A while back I asked you all to email me your stories about how you learned, where you learned etc. to knit or crochet.  Here's another enjoyable story to read.  This is our friend Tristi's story.  Thank you Tristi for sharing.  Still happy to receive other stories to post. 

 

I learned to crochet when I was a child.  My mom taught me basics, how to chain and maybe single crochet, not that I knew the terms,  I never did much with it then.  When I was in college my roommate learned to crochet so I picked up the hook again, re-learned and started an afghan that never got finished.  

Fast forward a few years and I picked up my hook again, this time to make a baby blanket for my baby, I was maybe 3 months along.  I still have that blanket and I have to be honest I have no idea what stitch I used, it definitely wasn't a "basic" stitch" but it worked so...  once again I laid down my hook.  

Another few years passed and we were in our house and my aging neighbor knew that I, as well as my family, liked to craft (at the time it was plastic canvas).  She offered me 2 or 3 huge black garbage bags of yarn and a few boxes of magazines and books, as she couldn't crochet anymore.  I looked thru the bags picking the yarn I wanted to keep and what I would pass on to my mom and sisters.  I found a swatch of a beautiful stitch and I was determined to figure out what it was so I could make a blanket.

Looking thru the magazines I found a little booklet that taught the basics and a few "fancy" stitches.  I dubbed this my crochet bible.  For the first time I learned what I was doing, what single crochet and double crochets were.  I also learned how to read a pattern.  

That swatch that inspired me was a closed shell stitch and I made a baby blanket with it.  It wasn't the prettiest of pieces as I didn't know how important counting stitches was, it grew in some places and shrunk in others, but it was a jump off point.

I turned into a crochet friend.  I made afghans, toys, bags, dish cloths, anything to practice different stitches and reading patterns.  I finally was brave enough to try making clothes.  I made myself a few tops, some of it was as a pattern tester.  I took a class and made my eldest a hoodie.

I almost always have a project on my hook these days, usually 2 or 3.  It is my sanity.  I have made lots of things over the years, alot of them given as gifts and alot to various charities.   After the birth of my 2nd, I didn't get to crochet as much, a little bit here and there and then she got mobile and loved to play with my yarn.  She's 2 and a half now and she has phases where she's fascinated by my crochet and times when she takes my hook.  It's been challenging but I still find time to do a bit.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Thoughtful and Necessary Items Donated for Families in Need

 Here's a cleaver way to package personal care items.  Thank you Cheryl S for this thoughtful and bountiful donation.  Personal care items are always needed by all 3 family shelters, as well as our folks on street.  I always safe all the sample sized stuff that comes in the mail, as well as the goodies from hotels when traveling.  A great way to make donations without spending money.  Cheryl has crocheted a cute little blue bag to hold it all.  This is also a nice gift idea folks if you need a little something for co-worker or friend.  Put a nice homemade bar of soap, bath scratcher or better yet one of your homemade knitted or crocheted cotton washcloths with it. 

 A beautiful, colorful and very cheery stripped afghan, made in what I would granny type stitches.  Won't this make some family happy!

 Stick with me folks, the box Cheryl sent was HUGE!  I took out a layer and photographed and just kept at it.  I love this pretty ripple afghan that started out with granny squares.  Very very nice.  I can see a Mom with girls loving this.

 Homeless Families Foundations is going to be jumping for a joy when I make the next delivery which will includes these ghans from Cheryl.  Another variation on granny's as the center and building from that.  This pretty purple and pink afghan is made like a never ending square...once the 3 where joined to form the middle.

 Cheryl included some personal care items, a hat, a space blanket and poncho.  And, the cute matching green set of hot pads, dish towel, spatula, dishcloth, measuring cups etc all packaged nicely for Welcome Home.  This will make an awesome addition to those special packs Homeless Families Foundation puts together when folks transition from shelter living to their permanent housing situation.

 Missed getting this in the above picture, more kitchen goodies folks!

 Creative, creative, and always looking ahead....that's our friend Cheryl.  She visits garage sales and came up with this cute doll.  She's made the doll clothes, a blanket, a towel set.  Please click to see all the cute items and their detail here.  This will be put aside for the special Christmas project through Homeless Families Foundation. 

 Another adorable crocheted afghan from Cheryl.  This one is tied to look a quilt.  Nice squares, joined in a pretty blue with the added touch of white ties.  AND...a blue and white ticking (think that's the right word) stripped pillow case.  This will make a nice bed package.  The colors will work for either a young boy or girl in my opinion.  Even a teen girl would enjoy this.

 Slippers in lots of sizing and colors.  Not sure what's going on in the picture...the colors are really funky and not true folks.  No idea why.  In addition to the slippers Cheryl has made a cute outfit for a young girl with a skirt and vest/top.

Another awesome colorful afghan.  Look how she picked up on the colors in the 2 pillow cases with her stripping on the granny stitch afghan.  Nicely done Cheryl.  What a nice idea putting pillow cases to make a bed ensemble!

I do hope you found time to eat and sleep while compiling this box of goodies.  Whew....it took me quite a bit of time opening, counting, photographing....can't imagine how much thoughtful time you spent crocheting.  Bless You!

2013 Donations:

Hats:  374
Scarves: 289
Socks: 200
Afghans: 25+5=30
Slippers: 132+9=141
Rain Ponchos: 202+1=203
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 419
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's, Skirts etc. : 10+2=12
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, hand-warmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, Dolls & associated items, stuffed/crocheted/knitted toys... etc aren't tabulated.


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Cotton Washcloths for Family Shelters

Pick a color!  Look at this awesome mound of fabulous crocheted cotton washcloths from our friend Dianne L. from California.  I love the variety is sizes and colors.  Also click to enlarge, look how she tied them...doesn't that make a nice package look to them.  All the family shelters love getting these cotton washcloths.  They are used as people enter the system and have nothing to get a nice shower, they used in move out packages when folks move from shelter living into permanent housing as both washcloths and dishcloths.  They are always needed, and always well received.

Nice work Dianne, please keep up the good work.  Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.  

June is slipper month, hope we get huge numbers of slippers.  We need slippers for men, women, and children.  Remember slippers should be made nice and thick (no loose stitches please).  Please check the slipper tab for ideas about how to use double yarn, or chunky yarn, or how to put 2 slippers together.


2013 Donations:

Hats:  374
Scarves: 289
Socks: 200
Afghans: 25
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 369+50=419
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets

Thought you all might get a kick out of this cute cartoon about how nuts we who knit and crochet are.  I can't remember if I saw this on Facebook or on LionBrands site; maybe both.  Anyway, thought it was cute and worth a repeat.

Hope you're all keeping busy now the weather has finally turned nice in most places.  We're still closing windows and putting on fleece some days/nights here.  Normally that's not the case for this time of year, it's been a bit wonky.  Do keep your fingers busy with hooks, yarn, and needles.  We like to collect and delivery our awesome donations all year long.....even in summer.

June is slipper month, hope we get huge numbers of slippers.  We need slippers for men, women, and children.  Remember slippers should be made nice and thick (no loose stitches please).  PLease check the slipper tab for ideas about how to use double yarn, or chucky yarn, or how to put 2 slippers together.


2013 Donations:

Hats:  374
Scarves: 289
Socks: 200
Afghans: 25
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 369
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Thank you, but No to Anonymous Donations

Anonymous donations came up the other day and it's not something I've blogged about in awhile, so thought it was time to discuss again.
**Isn't it nice when people donate anonymously, that means they don't need or want a public attention?**  Actually, no it's not nice in our setting for lots of reasons.

• In the past when I would receive a donation without a note, I would spend hours, sometimes days trying to determine from whom the donation came.  Why?  Because I don't have a way of knowing if they just forgot a note, or if they want to be anonymous.  It's not uncommon to get a heads up something coming your way, forgot to put a note in the box.  Since I can't look into my crystal ball to know if they forgot or if they wanted to be anonymous, I always expended lots of time and energy tracking people down.  All those I tracked down were in fact people who'd forgotten...so I really never assumed someone wanted to be anonymous.  Luckily, that particular problem has really lessened.  THANK YOU
• When a donation comes without a note, I'm not able to let the person know their items actually made it here.  Sadly, we have had a few situations with items lost in the mail, so it's best for everyone to know their items have been received...AND it saves them spending extra money to have it tracked.  (also less of a problem now with the changes in parcel post.
• Obviously for my record keeping anonymous is a problem.  I need my records to be visible and without question.  You can be anonymous on the blog, but not with me. 
• Sometimes I receive donations that aren't quite appropriate for our cause and it's important I have the ability to privately let the person know so they don't continue to send things that don't quite work.
• Sometimes I have items that require repair by me before they can be donated, and it's very important to communicate that so changes can be made in the future
• And..something I've never discussed here on line; but think perhaps it will help folks understand the magnitude of my being able to communicate with the individual, even if they wish to be anonymous on the blog. .. Bugs can nest in yarn and be transported from one house to another; bed bugs among them.  No, I've not had this happen; but I do know someone that has been unfortunate enough to be in that situation.  I did once, sometime back have a situation with yarn someone donated that I had to discard for related issues.  My apologies for feeling the need to post this; but as we grow it's sadly one negative by product of growth.

Some time back I indicated I could no longer spend the hours and days looking for people and therefore could not accept anonymous donations.  Thank you folks for understanding the ramifications.

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Crocheting with 12 Children

Still enjoying sharing our stories about how and when we learned to knit or crochet.  Please email your story, it's fun to see how we all started these crafts that have become such big part of our lives.  These skills/gifts given to us that share with the  with those less fortunate.  I believe our hearts and hands are guided down this path.  Please keep up the good work, One and All.

Love to post your story, please email at sandycrochet at gmail.com

Here's our good friend Sherry K's story, enjoy!

When I was about 7 or 8 my mother had a friend who had 12 children yet she had time to crochet baby afghans.  She was quick and it fascinated me.  I didn't actually pick up a needle until I was 19. I had lots of time on my hands because my first husband was a Marine and gone all the time.  I purchased a basic book to learn the basic stitches.  I didn't start small though. I went right to an afghan. I made afghans for everyone except myself of course.  Over the years I have made baby clothes, hats, scarves, and more but my real love is to make afghans. I recently made a knitted hat for my son and I have made a few knitted wash cloths but I still prefer crochet over knitting.

My story is quite simple but that is the way I roll.

 *I love how so many of us have a common thread, whether it's knitting or crocheting, so many of us used the craft to fill a void, and it truly does*

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Crocheting to Over Come Grief

A few days back I shared my story of how when and where I learned to knit and crochet.  A few days later I shared Sandie P from Louisiana story.  And now I'm sharing a beautiful story from our friend, Marjorie M.  It truly touches me, and while I knew some of this from our first couple of email exchanges it still touches me to think about it again.  Here are Marjorie's words.

No really big exciting story here. I learned to crochet because they told me I couldn't, due to being left handed.  Elder Aunts and my Mother taught my sisters but not me.  I watched from across the room and could see it in reverse.  Did it opposite of the right handers. I crocheted basic stuff for a few years then quit when I got married and had two babies and a job.

My husband was diagnosed with lung cancer on May 9 , 2011 he passed away on June 19th of the same year.  That was such a confusing, tragic time for me that I was looking for something to keep me sane. My younger sister sent me some yarn and a hook and I started crocheting again. I am not good at it, but can't even tell you the number of hours I spent sitting in his chair crocheting. Really believe it saved my life.  When I came across your charity by accident, it seemed like something I was supposed to do, being in Ohio where he was from.  He loved street people and the homeless and was always stopping to give some guy a few bucks or a cigarette.  I am still not able to read a pattern, but make terrific grannie squares, have taken a class,  to learn basics,and now belong to a crochet club. maybe I will improve over time.

the reason i check in with you each morning is that my dogs get me up at 6 a.m.  when i let them out i get dressed and turn on my computer at the same time. i hit the button to your site as the first thing i look at. then i tweet my granddaughter with a report on the weather for the day, before school.  i am a creature of habit. same thing starts each day.  therefore when your site is the same for a day or two i notice.

good talking  with you, hope you get lots of interesting stories on your new project. thanks again for all you and rae do to help the Ohio homeless.

**Marjorie, you would not be the first who turned to knitting or crocheting for comfort.  I had yarn in my hand all the time I sat beside Mom during her long hospital days before she passed.  I've read many books who's theme was in fact how they got through my learning to knit or crochet, or the comfort a group brought to them during difficult times.  You certainly honor your husband by sitting in his chair and caring for people from his homestate.  And, finding my blog perhaps wasn't by mistake...we all are guided, sometimes we just don't know it.  We're thrilled you've joined us, and shared your touching story.  Don't sell your crochet skills short my friend.

**please email me your story, how, when, where and why did you learn to knit or crochet?**

sandycrochet at gmail.com

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

The Things we do for Love

Another awesome scarf crocheted and donated by our friend Sandie P from Louisisana.  Awesome shades of blue, what type of yarn did you use?  I've not seen this mix before but really like it.  This would be well suited for male or female, adult or teen...Nice!



**June is slipper month, be sure to check out the slipper tab above, before you begin knitting and crocheting**

**Email me details of when, how etc you learned to knit or crochet, please don't leave the details in the comments below**

Few days ago, Sandie shared her story of how, when she learned to crochet.  It's a cute story, hope you enjoy it.

I learned to crochet in 1980, in Mississippi, from my cousin's wife Katy and her friend Diane. I used a J hook. From that trip I took away the basics. When I got home, I got yarn and hook of my own, along with a leaflet for how-to. No Internet then. I made afghans for everyone in my family. I only made afghans (large, bed size ghans) for many years.

I started a ripple afghan for my boyfriend (now my husband) just a year or so after I learned. He asked if it could be wider so I made another strip, attached it to the first few inches I'd already done, and continued the pattern forward. The things we do for love. LOL


2013 Donations:

Hats:  374
Scarves: 288+1=289
Socks: 200
Afghans: 25
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 369
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Licorice Afghan Donated to Homeless Families Foundation

Thank you Sherry K for this lovely afghan, whomever receives this at Homeless Families Foundation is going to be thrilled.  It's nicely sized, and very well made.  Here's team work for you folks, our friend from New York Ann Marie, sent squares to Sherry K (through the group they've become friends...pretty cool), and Sherry assembled the ghan.   Sherry named this afghan, Licorice...how perfect is that!! Then Sherry and I met again for coffee and a nice visit so she could pass the ghan along to me.  Gotta love team work!  And I passed along Pink Persuasion to be assembled to Sherry.   Sherry also loomed 2 hats.  Thank you Sherry for your hard work!

**June is slipper month, be sure to check out the slipper tab above, before you begin knitting and crocheting**

**Email me details of when, how etc you learned to knit or crochet, please don't leave the details in the comments below**


2013 Donations:

Hats:  372+2=374
Scarves: 288
Socks: 200
Afghans: 24+1=25
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 369
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

A Potpourri Donation Helps many

Wonderful donation here from our good friend Marjorie M.  I love the variety.  It's a real potpourri.   Marjorie has crocheted 20 cotton washcloths, an item always well received at all the family shelters we deliver to.  In addition to her hand crafts Marjorie has sent socks for both men and women (Rae will be thrillejd), razors, shaving cream, plastic forks, sandwich size zip-lock bags, and first aid kits.  I never thought of first aid kits but feel these compact items will be greatly appreciated by Rae as she cares for the folks living out in the elements.  Yes, it's close to summer folks, but in the last week we've had horrible fog, nights close to freezing, an abundance of rain, and a couple of days that were hot.  The weather this time of year here in Central Ohio is tough when you're without a roof over your head.

**June is slipper month, be sure to check out the slipper tab above, before you begin knitting and crocheting**

**Email me details of when, how etc you learned to knit or crochet, please don't leave the details in the comments below**


2013 Donations:

Hats:  372
Scarves: 288
Socks: 182+18=200
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349+20=369
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Donating Hats for Homeless

*this was suppose to post yesterday afternoon, sorry folks been having some troubles with scheduled post...continuing to work on it*

Thank you Marie P from Tennessee for this donation of knitted hats.  She has several sizes, several styles and a nice mix of colors.  The ribbed hat at the very top is probably my favorite.  Ribbed hats are generally nice and stretchy, which means they fit a variety of heads sizes which is a bonus...then again look how cute the mint green stripped one is with the little pompom on it.

Special Thanks for tagging each one with the size.  I know that's truly appreciated by all the shelters and aids them in proper distribution.

**It's June...June's focus is slippers, please check the details of sizes, colors, fibers, styles, and tagging in the slipper tab across the top of the blog.  There's also some patterns there you might enjoy using**

**Who's local?  Would love to get some additional help with assembling our afghans?**


2013 Donations:

Hats:  368+4=372
Scarves: 288
Socks: 182
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

When, and Where did You Learn to Knit or Crochet?

*Oophs, just realized this scheduled post didn't post.  So, popped in to do a little edit.

Last year we shared some of what makes each of do what we do, knit or crochet and donate.  People had very sweet and inspiring stories.  I thought for the next couple of weeks it would be fun to share how and why/where we began to knit and or crochet.

Mo Mother taught me to knit, I think I was about 7 years old and I knitted one little scarf.  The type that's about 4 inches wide goes across the top of your head, covers your ears and ties beneath your chin.  It was everyother row knit, purl...very basis.  I think she then crochet to taper the ends and crocheted the tie.  It was variegated, looked like the variegated you now see that's called Mexicana.  I think it took me forever to finish it and I never knitted again again about 12 years ago when the knitting with big needles and using novelty yarn to make scarves as The Thing.

I learned to crochet from my neighbors Grandmother when I was about the same age.  She taught me to chain, do single and double crochet and I made a mint green Dollie from rug yarn that she gave me.   I never crocheted again until after getting married, back in 1972.  Hubby was working full time in the evenings, and going to school during the days when I worked, so I had lots of time on my hands and decided I needed a hobby.  I got a book, learn to crochet in a day or something like that.  Following the directions some, mostly the pictures and kept at it until I remembered and have never stopped crocheting since then.  Except for a period of a couple of years when I was wearing writs braces for my carpal tunnel

How bout you?  What's your story?  Email at sandycrochet at gmail and I'll be happy to share it.  Do you remember what your first projects were?

The ghan above is one I've been working on off and on for a good long while.  It's knitted, feather and fan pattern.  I've named this one Sea and Sand.  I'm on the 2nd to last section, then need to weave in end...decide if I want an edge, launder and block.


2013 Donations:

Hats:  368
Scarves: 288
Socks: 182
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Hats and Scarves are Donated All Year Long

Love these colors!  Thank you Sandie P, you've done it again with your skilled busy hands.  Sandie has crocheted 2 lovely hats and scarves.  I love how nicely sized her scarves always are, wide enough to truly cover the neck and long enough to wrap multiple times...even up over the mouth and nose if necessary during cold winter months.

As always, Sandie your work is always so nice.  Many thanks for your on going support of Ohio's Homeless.  You are very much appreciated.

It's June folks...hope everyone is busy making slippers.  Knitted and crocheted slippers.  Please consider making your slippers with double thickness yarn, and please use nice tight stitches.  Loose stitches don't hold up well for slippers.  PLEASE read all the necessary information in the slipper tab.  There are also some nice patterns there you can use.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  366+2=368
Scarves: 286+2=288
Socks: 182
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Bags for Donated Afghans.

I wanted to let you all know the bags we've talked about before have been found, ordered and are here!  You may remember our good friend, Barbara F sent a donation in these nice zip lock style bags with a handle awhile back.  I liked the bags so much asked her about them and she graciously sent me several boxes, HERE.  I searched around here to find where I could get them with no luck, searched on line with no luck and she did some marvelous detective work with the store where she had originally purchased them.  Though they were no longer carrying them, she was given a link to order them on line and have them shipped to the store.  She passed along the link to me and I was able to order them.  It took awhile (several weeks), to get the whole thing done; but the wait was worth it.

We're using these bags for our afghans.  The bags are 20.5 x 17 inches, are heavy duty so nice and durable.  Not only does it make it easier for me to deliver the afghans to Homeless Families Foundation; but it makes it easier for them when packing up Welcome Home Packages.  They can see if the ghan is more child or adult oriented, as well as whether it's more male or female oriented.  It keeps the afghan nice and clean, and gives the family means of storing it during warmer weather.  A letter from Bridge and Beyond accompanies our afghans wishing them well and gives them laundry instructions. (you can see how they present in this post)

This whole process took several months, thus my excitement at now having the bags at my disposal.  Thanks so much Barbara for all your help.

Each box has 12 bags, and each case had 6 boxes, and I got 2 cases; so am well stocked now with 144 bags.

Love Team Work!


2013 Donations:

Hats:  366
Scarves: 286
Socks: 182
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated

here's the link to order Click here: Bulk Heavy Duty Zip-Seal Extra-Large Storage Bags, 12-ct. Packs at DollarTree.com
All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.

Clapping for Mittens from the State of Pennsylvania

I'm sooooooooooooo excited with this fantastic mound of mittens!  These are beautifully knitted, soft, thick, warm, paired and tagged male and female.  Please join me and thank our good friend, Judy C from Pennsylvania for this donation of 55 pairs of mittens!!!  Nice dark colors for men........ and a nice variety of colors for women.  Judy you are AWESOME!!

There are 36 pairs for the men, which is wonderful; as they are the largest group living outdoors.  These mittens have a nice long stretchy cuff to aid in it's warmth factor.  Judy please let us know which pattern you used.  I really want to pass this information along.  Some of you may remember, we lost our mitten page on a day when I was trying to do an edit and blogger wasn't working well.  I am in need of posting some good patterns for both knitted and crocheted mitttens.

Keep up the good work.

Today is the first day of June......our focus is slippers.  Please check the details in the slipper tab for size, color, fiber information.  Please remember to attach your pairs and label with size.

2013 Donations:

Hats:  366
Scarves: 286
Socks: 182
Afghans: 24
Slippers: 132
Rain Ponchos: 202
Mittens: 22+55=77
Cotton Wash Clothes: 349
Shawls, Sweaters, Vests, Poncho's: 10
Misc. Items: include personal care, headbands, handwarmers, cowls/gators and all meal prep related items, etc aren't tabulated

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.