Designing Desert Night

I still have plenty of designs to share with you. Remember, in a few posts I've mentioned a major design fest here in my living room. You should be seeing lots of your squares folks here, and in previous posts, as well as in upcoming posts. Did you miss them? Scroll back and see if you can identify some of yours. PLEASE PLEASE make a point to read the change in policy regarding knitting/crocheting and donating squares. Click HERE, or refer to the squares tab on the top of the blog.

I'm naming this afghan Desert Night. Many people feel that deserts are bland and without color; but....the colors are ever changing based on the time of the day, how sunny it is etc. And sometimes you have to study the scene for awhile to see how many colors there really are. These colors make me think of the west, the desert, the hues of pinks, purples, blues and more. I'm probably going to edge and join this ghan with a tan, off white if it's not too light. We'll see what's in stash and go from there.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
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 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!

Patriotic Red, White and Blue

A few days ago I posted pictures of all the afghans made to date from your donated squares (July 1st, when the contest/give away was announced), indicating I was getting the design bug again. Though I still have some that were designed previously, I really went at it over the last couple of days. I dumped multiple containers of your squares in the living room, divided them by color and designed and designed and DESIGNED. With the number I was able to design and the number of squares left for another design craze; I've decided it's time to alter accepting squares. I've not highlighted them in a long time, but have continued to accept squares when folks send them along with other items, and a large variety of size. I feel the need to trim that down to a more manageable level. The next time squares will be accepted is during the month of November, and please only mail at that time. Additionally, for ease of assembly and time in getting them put together; I now find the need to only accept 8 inch squares. IF...you've already made other sizes and have them waiting to be mailed.........not a problem. Just email me and let me know. But, for all squares made from here forward....please only make 8 inch squares and mail them in November.

It's possible as time goes on, I may alter that again; but feel the need to make things a bit more manageable at this time. I hope you understand.

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

Please check working calendar for monthly highlighted items, as it's been un-pdated through the end of the year.

Please scroll back and read DO's Don't DO's if you missed it the other day.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 472
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
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 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!

A Bit of The Irish

Some of the greens in this photo sorta appear grey, but I assure now lads and lassie's there are the green. I'm calling this afghan Wee Irish. Wee...because it looks so youthful (teddy and bear and all), and Irish because of the green (even though lighter then you normally see). And did ya see the clover? Lower left corner.

I'm fairly certain I still have sufficient amounts of dark forest green which I think would work well in edging and joining this afghan.

A few days ago I posted pictures of all the afghans made to date from your donated squares (July 1st, when the contest/give away was announced), indicating I was getting the design bug again. Though I still have some that were designed previously, I really went at it over the last couple of days. I dumped multiple containers of your squares in the living room, divided them by color and designed and designed and DESIGNED. With the number I was able to design and the number of squares left for another design craze; I've decided it's time to alter accepting squares. I've not highlighted them in a long time, but have continued to accept squares when folks send them along with other items, and a large variety of size. I feel the need to trim that down to a more manageable level. The next time squares will be accepted is during the month of November, and please only mail at that time. Additionally, for ease of assembly and time in getting them put together; I now find the need to only accept 8 inch squares. IF...you've already made other sizes and have them waiting to be mailed.........not a problem. Just email me and let me know. But, for all squares made from here forward....please only make 8 inch squares and mail them in November.

It's possible as time goes on, I may alter that again; but feel the need to make things a bit more manageable at this time. I hope you understand.

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

Please check working calendar for monthly highlighted items, as it's been unpdated through the end of the year.

Please scroll back and read DO's Don't DO's if you missed it the other day.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 472
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes 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!

A Box of Crayons

A box of crayons is exactly what this looks likes to me. I remember how I loved getting a new box of crayons. Back in my day, you got the regular package of basic colors: Red, Orange, Yellow, Blue, Purple, Green, Black and Brown. Now days you get boxes of hundreds of crayons, some with glitter and some that are washable and other varieties. But, the basic box of crayons served my needs just fine and dandy in my growing up years. So....in honor of old farts everywhere (like me) who fondly remember a basic box of crayons I've designed an afghan around that theme. Will decide later what to edge and join this afghan with, based on what's available in my stash.

A few days ago I posted pictures of all the afghans made to date from your donated squares (July 1st, when the contest/give away was announced), indicating I was getting the design bug again. Though I still have some that were designed previously, I really went at it over the last couple of days. I dumped multiple containers of your squares in the living room, divided them by color and designed and designed and DESIGNED. With the number I was able to design and the number of squares left for another design craze; I've decided it's time to alter accepting squares. I've not highlighted them in a long time, but have continued to accept squares when folks send them along with other items, and a large variety of size. I feel the need to trim that down to a more manageable level. The next time squares will be accepted is during the month of November, and please only mail at that time. Additionally, for ease of assembly and time in getting them put together; I now find the need to only accept 8 inch squares. IF...you've already made other sizes and have them waiting to be mailed.........not a problem. Just email me and let me know. But, for all squares made from here forward....please only make 8 inch squares and mail them in November.

It's possible as time goes on, I may alter that again; but feel the need to make things a bit more manageable at this time. I hope you understand.

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

Please check working calendar for monthly highlighted items, as it's been unpdated through the end of the year.

Please scroll back and read DO's Don't DO's if you missed it the other day.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 472
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes 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 Golden Gate Bridge State

Wave hello to our good friend James folks. He knits so beautifully and has been such a long time supporter of us here at Bridge and Beyond. Thank you James for your thoughtful donation, and for your on going support.......all the way from California, The Golden Gate Bridge State. We sure appreciate it.

James knitted 4 hats, a cute pair of slippers, 4 pairs of mittens and a darling little mitered square afghan. The afghan will be so appreciated by some little boy. Hey Jim, I loved how a couple of cotton washcloths came out using the mitered square method. How did you figure out how many to cast on? Did you wing it, or have a pattern?

2012 Donations:
Hats: 451+4=455
Scarves: 252
Slippers: 82+1=83
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 23+1=24
Mittens: 252+4=256
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Hey Folks, scroll back to yesterday's post if you missed the announcement about the Give Away/Contest**

***Check out the working calendar, it's current through the end of the year***

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!

Fabulous Giving from the State of Georgia

Cotton Washcloths, hats, mittens, and scarves. All from the skillful and thoughtful hands of our good friend, Wendy H, from The Peach Tree State, Georgia. Look how sweet the mittens and hat set are...that makes you think of peaches, doesn't it! Many thanks Wendy for your hard work, your thoughtful donation, and your on going support.
AND...look at this full sized patriotic, red, white and blue afghan! Awesome. How appropriate with The 4th of July just around the corner. Nicely done, Wendy H. Due do some internet issues, this post is a bit late. This afghan along with several good sized bags have already been donated to The Homeless Families Foundation. This will make such a wonderful Welcome Home Gift.

Keep up the good work Wendy H. Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 444+5=449
Scarves: 249+1=250
Slippers: 82
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22+1=23
Mittens: 151+1=252
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 354+9=363
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

As the month of June is closing in on us, July's focus has been added to the working calendar. July's focus will afghans. PLEASE read the requirements in the calendar section, and or the afghan section, and if you have questions, leave a note here or send me an email. I've also added August's focus which will be slippers for those folks who like to work ahead. I should also add you can see all the afghans made from your squares in the afghan section.

**Looking for unknown crocheter from St. Louis to match up with a recent donation, please make contact.**

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

Designing GemStone Afghan

Not to long back I dumped all the squares from their containers and designed quite a few which are in que to be assembled. This is one from Liz's (minnesoda on The Ville), brightly colored squares. I've named this one GemStone. Thought of birthstones when I saw these nice squares with all the great colors. Stay tuned, I'll be previewing additional designed ghans from all the lovely squares. Of course keep checking back to see the finished product as well.

I'm not anticipating the need to highlight squares for some time yet; but please keep checking the calendar. Thank you Liz.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 212
Scarves: 106
Slippers: 48
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 1
Vest 1
Afghans: 17
Mittens: 120
Squares: 171
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!

Donations from The Peach Tree State for Ohio's Homeless

Thank you Wendy H from The Peach Tree State of Georgia! Look at this lovely baby blanket (sorry the picture is a bit blurry), cute hats, and squares. I've always like the blue green combination and this looks so fresh and springy! Perfect, I think for little girl or boy to snuggle up with. Thanks for the nice variety in both color and size in your hats, Wendy. Wendy is our newest pair of helping hands, you can visit her on Facebook, link in the blog roll. Please keep up the good work, hope to see you here often.


2012 Donations:
Hats: 205+7=212
Scarves: 104+1=105
Slippers: 48
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 1
Vest 1
Afghans: 16+1=17
Mittens: 120
Squares: 168+3=171
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!

Donating Kaleidoscope Afghan

Kaleidoscope Afghan completed and donated to our Project "Welcome Home". Was pleased with the way this turned out and appreciate everyone's input on what color to join with. Went with black, as you can see. It's a nice size for a little girl/ teen lapghan size. You see it here just before it was laundered and blocked. Used up all the black that matched in my stash, some of the pink yarn donated by my high school friend, Connie and donated squares from...I believe a time before Bridge and Beyond. I don't have a picture so am unsure where or whom they came from; but believe it was an anonymous group that went defunct some time back.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 205
Scarves: 104
Slippers: 48
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 1
Vest 1
Afghans: 15+6=16
Mittens: 120
Squares: 168
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)

Hope you've checked the tabs across the top of the blog for information regarding size, and color for your various donations. Likewise the working calendar gets updated frequently. Thank you all for the thoughtful donations to date, and please keep up the good work. You do make a difference, an important difference in the lives of those in need.


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 to Help Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!

Due to the number of pictures in this post, they are smaller....so PLEASE click to enlarge them and see the details. Cheryl S. (whom I've dubbed the slipper queen), has done it again. You might be wondering why I've dubbed her the slipper queen. Well, she's donated lots of slippers previously as well as here; but....she's the one that came up with the fabulous idea to line them, to make them double. She's done a variety here with 10 pairs of slippers, 7 pairs of mittens, a pair of gloves and 2 cute little bags. You might remember how creative she got when making a zipper bag who's liner is a zip lock bag from one of previously donations. Additional this box contained donations of personal care items, and hand warmers. What a haul. When I say she lined, or double slippers....take a look. She's made them double by making 2 pairs and stitching them together. They are truly warm, soft, and very durable. These will be so well received by the warm feet wearing them. She's done a bit of the same with some of her mittens. I liked her idea so much for slippers I added it to the slipper tab some time back.

But, wait....the above picture was only box #1 from our good friend Cheryl S. Here then is box #2. This donation consists of 5 hats, 1 neck warmer, 12 crocheted cotton washcloths (always a good item), 21 granny squares, 19 sample squares, some yarn, 1 sweater, 1 vest with hood (sooooooo adorbable), 4 7 sets of matching hats and scarves, and 4 additional scarves! Holly cow, I'm wondering if the girl's even been sleeping. She included a note that the adorable Toddler Hoodie is a pattern called Turning Stone on Caron.Com and the sweater is from Crochet World, the pattern is called "Girls Lacy Sweater", that she successfully turned into a boy's sweater. Great to have the info on the patterns. We're always interested. Also wanted to add a special thanks for mating up your mittens and your slippers with a nice tag indicating the size. Very helpful, not only to me; but to those who distribute at the various shelters.

Ok........hold onto your hat, and someone please....a little drum roll here. I had quite a pile of boxes to open on this particularly day. Had tallied Cheryl's above donation and moved on to several other boxes.............when wham. Another box from Cheryl that contained this black, light and dark gray plaid style afghan....AND
This fun bright, cherry crocheted stripped afghan.......AND

This pretty sorts vintage looking afghan.............AND

This off white afghan with brown and rust/orange trim. There's lots of texture here folks, be sure to click to enlarge............AND, seriously, I'm not teasing you, keep reading, keep scrolling.......
and more drum roll, please.............................

This lovely blue, tan, white and variegated afghan. These 5 awesome afghans were in box #3! All 5 afghans are crocheted. Cheryl......WOW x 3. Many many thanks for your super busy hands. By now, I would think your crochet hook must be smokin!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 179+12=191
Scarves: 83+11=94
Slippers: 29+10=39
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 1
Vest 1
Afghans: 10+5=15
Mittens: 106+8=114
Squares: 128+40=168
Socks: 102
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 15+12=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!

Baby Boy Blanket

This afghan was made in answer to a special request from our friend, Rae. Rae prepares and delivers hot meals on Sat. am to those living under the bridges (and various other places). She indicated there was an expectant couple. My heart sank. Being pregnant, living outdoors in the cold and the wet. Perhaps getting lucky enough to get a night here and there in a shelter. I truly can not fathom that. Despite my work on this blog, the information I've read, and the people I've been in contact with over these last several years; as we work together to help those in need.........truly, I can not imagine that.

I searched the squares on hand and began working immediately to get this afghan done for her so that she might deliver it as soon as possible. I know you all share my quest to make certain this little boy will be wrapped up in something warm, something made with love. These squares have been on hand for some time. I added several shades of browns and tans to make the sorta camo squares more masculine.

Join me please in wishing this couple all the very best. Rae informs me, there is someone aiding them in finding housing. I do hope that comes to pass, so they have a roof over their heads when they welcome in their Baby Boy. Keep them please in your thoughts and prayers.

This afghan isn't traditional, it's not blue, it's not made with super soft light weight baby yarn. It's made, as we do all of goods with washable knitted worsted weight yarn for added warm, and durability. It measures just over 41 x 41. I wanted it to be larger then the average baby blanket, so they might get some extra use out of it.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 132
Scarves: 56
Slippers: 28
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 9+1=10
Mittens: 106
Squares: 128
Socks: 98
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 15
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks 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 Georgia Brown

I couldn't help but sing, partially because this donation comes to us from our friend, Diana K from Georgia, and partially because ........LOOK! When I started opening boxes, I didn't realize more then one of the boxes was from Diana. Thus separate pictures. This is box 1....17 squares, 3 hats, and 2 scarves...plus personal care items. Awesome. Took photo, made note and moved onto another box or two...had several that day. Then

hit box 2 from our friend, Diana K from Georgia...see why I'm singing? Join me in the chorus. Followed by some lala's K! Box 2 had 6 more scarves, 8 more hats, 2 pairs of slippers.... AND
This rippled afghan!

Many thanks Diana for your thoughtful donation of goodies. So many will benefit. Scroll back up folks...anyone quess what Diana's favorite colors are, lol. Love the red and purples together!!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 119+(3+8)=130
Scarves: 48+(2+6)=56
Slippers: 26+2=28
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 8+1=9
Mittens: 95
Squares: 111+17=128
Socks: 98
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 15
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, etc)

**Donations received and counted in the contest not yet posted from: Patty L, Bonnie B, Gail B, and Otterbeins "Stitches to Share", Suzy from Ohio, AnneMarie, Cheryl S, Shannon P., Trudy S, Wendy H, Sandie in Florida, Paula K. Sue F., Eliz R (need Eliz R to make contact with me)Theresa A. ** (remember posts are written ahead, placed in que...scheduled to be posted and we typically work about 2 wks or so ahead). Announcement of winners tomorrow, everyone be sure and check in, and leave comments so we know you were here.

***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!

Designing Dusty Rose

Recently, I mentioned I dumped all the donated squares from my collection containers (ones not already in designs in bags in que), and had a design frenzy. This is another of that group. This has squares from lots of folks, big squares, small squares, knitted squares, and crocheted squares--some of which are granny style while others are sampler style. Do you see any of your squares here?

This will most likely be joined with pink or ivory...depends on amount in my stash and how it all matches up when I'm ready to start this one. Notice the 3 different pink camo type yarns? I've not come across any of those in my shopping, but like them all. Interesting, the lighter camo I have 2 crocheted squares and one knitted one...not from the same person, or at least not from memory. Always think it's fun to see how different the same yarn looks when knitted and crocheted.

**Few more days left in the contest**

2012 Donations:
Hats: 118
Scarves: 48
Slippers: 26
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 8
Mittens: 90
Squares: 111
Socks: 98
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 14
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, footies etc)

**Have you noticed the addition of an afghan tab across the top of the blog? Check it out**

****Reminders:
Please include a note in your donations, have had an increase of donations not identified, which causes me lots of extra time to track down
Please check your work to be sure you've tucked in ALL your tails (the only exception to this is your final tail on a square) before mailing your donations. Donations not ready to go, get delayed in their deliveries until I have time to fix them.

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!

Bountiful Harvest Afghan

Another afghan made from Liz's lovely squares for our project, "Welcome Home". I asked for opinions on the name of this afghan, just couldn't settle on one myself and am thrilled to say hakucho, one of my regular blog visitors to Sandy's Space suggested it's name. Bountiful Harvest. I really liked the name and appreciate her suggesting it. By the time you read this scheduled post I'm onto another one.

There is no end to the afghans that can be made from your creative and thoughtful squares. With what I have in que to assemble, I'll probably not set aside a month to focus on squares for a bit yet; please keep checking though. Many of you go ahead and mail your squares when you're mailing other items, and that's perfectly fine. Makes sense, most cost effective...we just won't be highlighting another month for squares for awhile.

Have you noticed I added a tab for afghans to the top of the blog? Some folks like to make full afghans themselves vs squares, that's fine and dandy. Please though, do read the requirements. I've not yet posted any patterns, but will on down the road. So do check back.


2012 Donations:
Hats: 118
Scarves: 47
Slippers: 26
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 7+1=8
Mittens: 88
Squares: 111
Socks: 98
Rain Poncho's 2
Cotton Washcloths 14
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, footies etc)

4 more days in the contest....chances in hat 3, Chatty Cathy are as follows:
SSeger 22, Sue 4, Patty L. 5, Damaris 8, Allyson 9, Sally 21, Sherry 14, Liz 1, AnneMarie 2, Harvest Hill 12, Yvonne 8, Sandie P 3, Joy 1, Jessica 1, RoseMarie 2, Sandie in Florida 5, Kathleen 1, Autumngeisha 1, Trudy S 1, Theresa A 1, Crochet Princess 1, Kim 1, Wendy H 2, Emma 1
**Kim and Emma, please make contact I'm not finding you in the donations database

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!

Kaleidoscope, Childrens Play

Remember the fun you had as a child with a $.59 cardboard Kaleidoscope? That was the first thing that came to mind when I designed this afghan from these colorful little squares. They are indeed smaller squares then I typically get (size 7-10 inch being the requirements). These have been in my stash of squares for a good long while. The other day I decided it was time to dump squares out of the containers and do some designing.......also a good way to remind myself what I had on hand. As you probably know, I'm constantly working on assembling but always several designed and in que. I'll add several rows to these to make a nice child sized afghan for our project, "Welcome Home".

I also like to design ahead so I can grab a bag to edge for car rides, travels, and lunch at work. Particually when the squares are the same size, they make for a good grab and go project.

I could edge and join in pink...would look really girly then; or green or brown to make it more masculine? But, there's always ivory which would make it...either? Thoughts on this? Then again, black would be more like a Kaleidoscope wouldn't it? But, is black ok for a childs afghan?

Love some input on this, as I'm almost done (should be later today), with the current ghan I'm working on, and planned to do this one next.

***Here's a review of people involved in the 3rd portion of the contest (runs from Feb 14th-March 14th, please click HERE for details).
SSeger, Sue, Patty L, DaMaris, Allyson, pmsflowerlady, Sally, Sherry K., Liz, AnneMarie, Yvonne, Emma, Sandie P, Joy D., Jessica, Jen, RoseMarie, Harvest Hill (Jason), Sandie in Florida. Remember the more you chat, the more chances you have to win!
*****Emma I'm not finding you in my records, have you donated...I don't want to miss anyone, please make contact so I can get this corrected.

Tomorrow updates for part I and II of the contest.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 98
Scarves: 28
Slippers: 20
Shawls: 2
Afghans: 7
Mittens: 75
Squares: 79
Socks: 42
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves 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!