SWEET Sweaters

WOW...when I grow up I want to knit as well as Phyllis. Beautiful, cute, warm knitted sweaters, (5), and 2 hat and scarf sets. I've posted a close up of the darling hooded sweater below. Phyllis you've made children not only warm with your craft; but stylish too! Your work is truly beautiful, and your thoughtful donation is very much appreciated. Phyllis sent warm wishes to us too, from her sunny state of Florida. I basked in the virtual sun....thanks Phyllis, I needed it.

I've been chanting melt snow all day long. Check back later and see how that worked. lol

Too cute Phyllis.

Need some help folks
***Trying to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***Would like to say thank you. Does anyone know who this might be? AND Patty L. from Ohio.

2011
Scarves 54+2=56
Hats 137+3=140
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 7
Ghans 6
Squares 152
Sweaters 5

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**


Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Knitted Love

Knitted love = warmth! People taking time to knit and crochet something special for someone else is such an expression of love and caring. Trudy in Maryland has clicked her needles together and made these loving warm items to help the homeless and those in need. Many thanks Trudy your thoughtful donation of 5 hats and 2 scarves is truly appreciated.

The peach color is sooooooo pretty, makes me think of spring which I hope comes soon; as I'm very tired of this winter.

Hope to see you and your creative needles here often.

***Trying to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is. Would like to say thank you. Does anyone know who this might be? Also Patty L from Ohio. ***

**Check out the map on the bottom of the blog. Are you listed? If not, sing out please and thanks**

2011
Scarves 52+2=54
Hats 132+5=137
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 7
Ghans 6
Squares 152

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Warming Ohio's Homeless

Thank you Amy, another new pair of helping hands. We are so fortunate that so many new pairs of helping hands are finding us and being willing to join our cause and help our cold homeless here in Ohio. Amy crocheted 6 squares, 2 hats, and 2 pairs of slippers. All good things to help warm someone up in need. I missed Amy's squares earlier when I tried to get all the squares in for the final count...things that came while and right after I was out of town. So, will go and update our Give a Square page to reflect this new number.

Since all my posts are written and in que (in order to have a post each day), when you read this it might not be; but is snowing AGAIN, as I write this post. The need continues folks so please keep those hands busy with yarn and crochet hooks and or knitting needles. Together, we are indeed helping!

***Trying to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***Would like to say thank you. Does anyone know who this might be?

2011
Scarves 52
Hats 130+2=132
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5+2=7
Ghans 6
Squares 146+6=152

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**


Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

A variety of ways to warm people up

Thank you Stephanie...more new helping hands from the state of New York. Not sure, but you might be our first pair of New York helping hands. I've been trying to note where folks are from this year as donations come in. Thought it would be fun to know. So, if you've donated before and are on one of our lists here, and I don't have the state from you're from listed...sing out so I can add it. Please and thanks.

Soft, and a wonderful variety in colors with this donation, click to see better. Stephanie knitted and crocheted 14 hats, 5 neck gator (neck warmers), and 2 scarves.

***Trying to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***Would like to say thank you.

2011
Scarves 50+2=52
Hats 116+14=130
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Mufflers, Scarves What do you Call them?

I ran across the word muffler the other day and remembered hearing that term alot when I was younger. So, I wondered...what do you call them in your neck of the woods....the think you wrap around your neck?

Three knitted scarves and a hat from Eve in Illinois. The scarves are so nice and soft someone is going to love having them wrapped around their neck! Eve is our newest pair of helping hands. Thanks so much Eve for your thoughtful donations, they are greatly appreciated.

The smaller scarf on the right is such a neat color combination, brownish red....what yarn did you use?


Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

2011
Scarves 47+3=50
Hats 115+1=116
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Crocheted Scarf, every color possible.

I love all the colors in this ombre yarn. I think these colors work for adults or children, for males or females. Nothing fancy just good old double crochets using a H hook so there's very little space between. I like using smaller hooks to make items more solid and therefore warmer. This was a good take to work project. I could do a couple of rows here and there during lunch; and finished it up in the car while hubby and I ventured out of town recently in search of warmer weather. (some Hilton Head posts on my Travel blog). I like projects you don't have to worry much about counting or measuring when you're traveling. This nice warm scarf is large and will therefore be adult appropriate measuring 7 1/2 inches wide and 80 inches long. I like scarves large enough to be wrapped around twice for warmth, or used as a head and neck scarf at the same time (at least for women).

If memory serves me right this yarn ombre mix is very close to the colors I used way back in the day when I made my very first scarf. It was one of those little head scarves you tie under your chin. Anyone old enough to remember what I'm talking about? lol

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

2011
Scarves 46+1=47
Hats 115
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hats, Beanies, Taboggan so many words

There are so many words one can use when talking about a hat. Here's just a few: Hat, cap, beanie, beret, bonnet, cloche, fedora, skull cap, sombrero, tam, and toboggan. Toboggan can be confusing, as many think of a sled rather than a hat. Depends, I believe what part of the country you're from. But, whatever you call it; hats are awesome to aid the homeless in keeping warm. And, whatever your word choice is these hats from our good friend Sandie in Louisiana are awesome as always. Her work is always so well done. These 2 crocheted hats are nice and warm and large enough for adults. I know they will make 2 more people warmer, and glad to be wearing a hat,cap,beanie, toboggan, beret, bonnet, cloche, fedora, skull cap, sombrero/tam.

Many thanks Sandie for your on going support, it is greatly appreciated.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

2011
Scarves 46
Hats 113+2=115
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hooking Hands Helping Homeless

Hats, and scarves from Suzy our latest pair of helping hands. Another Ohioan. Welcome to the group and thank you for helping the cause Suzy. Suzy's been busy with her crochet hook making hats in all sizes to warm a variety of people. Many thanks Suzy. Hope to see you often here at the Bridge and Beyond.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

2011
Scarves 44+2=46
Hats 98+15=113
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

**Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Knitted Help from New Jersey for Ohio's Homeless

Wonderful knitted hats (3), and scarf from Sally in New Jersey to help our homeless here in Ohio. The middle hat and scarf look black in the photo, but are a nice navy blue. Sometimes photo's don't seem to show certain colors well; not sure why though?

I love seeing new pairs of helping hands from all over helping and am thrilled Sally found us. Looking forward to seeing you around often Sally and very much appreciate your thoughtful donation.

2011
Scarves 43+1=44
Hats 95+3=98
Mittens (gloves) 53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

** Please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Suzy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Smiles at the End of the RAINBOW

During the month of January we had the opportunity to have a partnership with some darling and caring young children from Rainbow Day Care. These darling little ones are reaching out to others. They are giving out smiles at the end of the Rainbow. Having just finished celebrating Christmas with their families, they continued through the guidance of their teacher Erika to keep the "spirit" of Christmas alive. Their lessons for the month of January focused on caring and giving to those less fortunate. To begin to learn about people being homeless. How wonderful to teach the spirit of giving to others at such a young age. They kept their Christmas Tree up and adorned it with hats, mittens, etc. for children. They asked who might not have these items, and who might wear the items they donated. They discussed the fact that little girls would probably wear the pink hats, and boys the blue hats. They helped their teacher count their donations. Lots of good life lessons being taught here; as well as the wonderful help for homeless.........Children helping children how sweet is that!

The kids collected 39 pairs of mittens/gloves and 17 hats. Think how wonderful it is that, that many children can now be warmed.

While I'd love to show you those smiling giving faces, to protect the children am posting a picture of their giving tree so beautifully decorated with their thoughtful donations. The children have continued to learn about those in need by moving onto their next project of collecting canned goods to help those who are hungry.

Here you can see all the cute hats the children collected.
And look how many pairs of hands can be warmed!

Thank you Erika for spearheading this wonderful and worthwhile project at Rainbow Day Care, and THANK YOU CHILDREN! You are all awesome.

2011
Scarves 43
Hats 78+17=95
Mittens (gloves) 14+39=53
Socks 13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 146

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, Suzy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Final Counts for Give a Square!

Thank you Sarah S (from The Hive) for your ongoing support and beautiful work to help our cold homeless here in Ohio. Look at these 3 darling sets of matching mittens and hats! The hats are knitted, the mittens are crochet. In additions she sent 4 very nice crocheted squares which you know I'll add as I continue to design and join afghans for those in need.

The 2 pair of heavy warm socks is such a bonus and the men will really appreciate them.

Thanks again Sarah for your thoughtful donations.

The Give a Square program was a 3 month program and during those 3 months 390 squares were collected and added to some I had on hand. To date we've donated 17 afghans to the homeless (2 went to our friends at Pine Street). Waiting in the wings to be assembled are 8 ghans already designed. In addition, I have enough squares and rectangles on hand to design more! Very definitely a good project that produced a good outcome. I'll continue to design and post pictures and continue to work on assembling and keep you all posted. Pictures of all ghans available by clicking on above red Give a Square Text.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

2011
Scarves 43
Hats 75+3=78
Mittens 1+3=4
Socks 11+2=13
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 142+4=146+6=152
Fingerless gloves 10

**stay tuned for final number as a result of The Rainbow Project, and please read about Toasty Tootsies**

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, Suzy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Ohioan helping fellow Ohioans

Our newest pair of helping hands comes from Marie Anne, a fellow Ohioan. Welcome and thank you for these lovely crocheted granny squares, (14). Fun, cheery colors and interesting square pattern. Looking forward to working these in with others to design more afghans to warm those at Faith Mission.

Marie Anne is a fellow blogger, so please hop over to her blog and say hello; it's listed in the blog log.

We are very close to our final count of squares collected for our special "Give a Square" project, so hope you'll check back. In addition, I also hope to have final number for The Rainbow Project, very soon.

If you've not had a chance to read about our latest project, Toasty Tootsies, please do. There's a tab across the top of the blog and a blog badge in the sidebar. Please feel free to spread the word, blog about it, tweet about it, facebook it, and by all means would love to have you add the badge to your blog.

Anyone able to share a pattern for Toasty Tootsie's?

2011
Scarves 43
Hats 75
Mittens 1
Socks 11
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 128+14=142
Fingerless gloves 10

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, Sarah S, Suzy, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Crocheted Granny Squares

YIPPEE, more wonderful squares to add to others and make more warm afghans for those folks at Faith Mission. Those Mothers and Children who receive them will be thrilled. Many thanks Liz (minnisoda in Crochetville) crocheted these 35 granny squares. Love the colors, love the patterns and know they will be easy to incorporate as I begin designing next time.

Trying to wrap up the counting etc of the squares received for our 3 month Give a Square Program. It will not go away, just be dormant for a time period. Please feel free to continue knitting or crocheting your squares, but hold mailing until I send up a flag.

Have you noticed the new tab across the top, or the new badge in the sidebar? Toasty Tootsies Project will be our February Focus.

Stay tuned for final numbers from January's Rainbow Project.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Sandie from LA, Sandy (me), Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, Sarah S, Suzy, Marie Anne, Cecile, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

***Need to track down YNC from Virginia, I don't know who that is. If you're out there,please sing out. Without a note in the box am unsure who this is***


2011
Scarves 43
Hats 75
Mittens 1
Socks 11
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 93+35=128
Fingerless gloves 10

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

So many ways to warm those in need.

24 Squares/rectangles crocheted in every color of the rainbow and then some! Thank you Brenda this will be added to others and I'll post designs of ghans that will warm those in need at Faith Mission. I'm seeing a stained-glass window look perhaps with these....must add the others and see what I come up with. (sorry the picture is a bit blurry, I must have moved). These squares are due to our Give a Square Project.
Thank you Brenda for these 10 crocheted pairs of fingerless gloves. They will aid folks, and I know be appreciated. Had hubby photograph me wearing a pair...those are my hands so you all can see how these work. Can't remember if I asked you what pattern you used. There are times I wouldn't mind having a pair of these myself. When driving, and sometimes working on the computer when I'm cold.
Brenda is a fellow Ohioan and our newest pair of helping hands. You can see her helping hands have been busy. Here are 11 crocheted scarves of various sizes and colors. Some of these will be perfect for the younger ones at the clinics and or Faith Mission, and some are wonderfully sized for the Mothers.
Hats, Hats, Hats. Again lots of sizes and colors, some suitable for children, some appropriate for adults. Fabulous, and cute crocheted hats. Click to enlarge so you can see some of the great detail Brenda added.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Minnisoda, Sandie from LA, Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Sally, Sarah S, Marie Anne, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

2011
Scarves 32+11=43
Hats 58+17=75
Mittens 1
Socks 11
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 69+24=93
Fingerless gloves 10

Please check out February's Project, Toasty Tootsies

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Squares, hats, socks, and scarves for our Homeless in Need

Thank you Yvonne all the way from North Dakato. Lovely squares (4 knitted for Give a Square), 6 pairs of socks (always needed), 4 fabulous warm soft knitted hats, and 2 very cool knitted scarves. YIPPEE. This is one of the boxes of thoughtful donations that arrived while I was out of town. My very dear neighbor (best neighbor in the world!), took great care of all these important boxes. Both he and my mail man know they contain important help for our homeless in need.

Yvonne your on going help and support is greatly appreciated. Thank you and please keep up the good work. Yvonne also included 2 packs of soap and shampoo. Personal care items are a bonus in deed.

Our February focus folks are slippers, for men, women, and children.

Photo's taken and blog posts written and in que for donations from: Minnisoda, Sandie from LA, Eve, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Brenda & Sharon S, Sally, Sarah S, Marie Anne, and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

2011
Scarves 30+2=32
Hats 54+4=58
Mittens 1
Socks 5+6=11
Slippers 5
Ghans 6
Squares 65+4=69

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

WOW

WOW! Another month has passed us by. "Give a Square" is currently hibernating. It will be re-activated again, please keep knitting and crocheting squares and lay them aside for now. I need to assemble some of those ghans I've designed from your squares, AND design a few more. Please keep checking back to see our total number of squares (I have more to add to get our totals that came while I was out of town), and see how many ghans we have designed and ready to assemble...as well as how many ghans we've donated. You are all AWESOME.

PLEASE don't forget January, (that ended yesterday) was the month of our Rainbow Project were we joined forces with children from a local day care. The kids collected hats and mittens to add to our efforts. I'm hoping to make connections later this week to pick up their donations and let you all know what was collected.

February kicks off our slipper focus. As you know, if you've been reading the blog for awhile we knit and crochet and collect hats, mittens, scarves, and slippers all year long........But, we do like to highlight something each month in case you're needing a suggestion of what to make. Typically, it's the item most in need or items we're lowest on at the time. Slippers for February please. Slippers; knitted or crocheted primarily for the mothers and their children at Faith Mission (living in temporary housing due to homelessness and or being abused); but our mothers and children being treated at the 2 free clinics are also in need of warm comfortable feet. The men who are lucky enough to get a night in doors through Faith Mission could also use slippers---wearing the slippers might give them a chance to wash or dry the socks they've been wearing. So, slippers for men, women, and children. Warm, mostly solid (not lacey) are best for comfort and warmth. Due to being out of town, I don't yet have slippers patterns to post; but will be adding those if you don't have a pattern you like. Please check back.

Photo's taken and blog posts pending for donations from: Minnisoda, Sandie from LA, Eve, Yvonne, Phyllis, Stephanie, Trudy, Brenda, Sally and Amy. Please check back and enjoy the pictures of their lovely donations.

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Can you believe this is our 326 post!

Hats, Scarves and more for the Homeless

Pretty Lime Green and hat and scarf sets from our good friend RoseMarie. There's also a nice beige set that has arm warmers. I think that's what they're called? Click to enlarge arm warmers are top right corner. In addition to the sets there are 2 gold hats which look muted in color in my picture for some reason? AND 2 pair of beige slippers. Everything is beautiful made, crocheted...except I think the arm warmers are knitted? Is that right RoseMarie?

Many thanks for your on going support and talented hands. Rose Marie is from Tennessee. I've been trying to add where people are from as donations come in this year. Thought it might be fun to see where all the helping hands come from. Please take a look for your name in the lists (both blog and non blog lists), and sing out with your state and or country so I can add it. Thanks!

2011
Scarves 27+3=30
Hats 49+5=54
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3+2=5
Ghans 6
Squares 65

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

I give you Crowns!

I give you "Crowns", fiber crowns that is. Just like a King or Queen where their crowns our homeless will now be so adorned too. These fabulous knitted hats were donated by Sally. Thrilled to have you join us Sally as our newest pair of helping hands. You've made 2 more people warm with these beauties.

Thank you for your thoughtful donation. Hope to see lots of you here at The Bridge.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 47+2=49
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 65

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Rainbows

In keeping with our Rainbow Project with the kids from the Day Care...LOOK at these darling hats made by Barbara and her friend Jackie. Aren't they darling! These 7 colorful hats are knitted (loomed), and are practical perfect in every way as Mary Poppins would say. Nicely sized for kids as well. I can hardly wait to delivery these, as I know how special the children will feel wearing them.

Many thanks Barbara and Jackie for your thoughtful donation. Barbara has donated before but this is the first Jackie has joined us. Love having more helping hands. Thanks Barbara for getting your friend involved. Hope to lots more of you both.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40+7=47
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 65

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Name me Ghan, please!

This is another ghan designed and waiting in the wings from squares from Sandie in Louisiana, RoseMarie, Pat, Kris, Anne, and Carol. There are both squares and rectangles, all are crocheted. I've racked my brain though and can't come up with a name for this afghan. I almost always name them....anyone with a suggestion. It's sorta pastel...but not with the green; probably mauve doesn't count as pastel either?

Not sure what color I'll edge and join with, possibly white? Possibly blue? Have to think further. I'll be busy for awhile getting these squares together for a ghan, but do want to say how pleased I am with the participation we've had and the fun mix of squares and rectangles. Just a few more days if you're hurrying to get things in the mail; then we'll suspend (for awhile), the Give a Square program. I do plan to reactivate it though, so stay tuned.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 65

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

More Squares to aid Faith Mission

Thank you Nancy. Nancy (pinnut) and I know each other from a group called OddBall Blankets on Ravelry. We've worked on several baby blankets together for that charity and now she's given more of her time to send me some wonderful knitted squares. These 11 squares will soon find their way into another ghan to keep those Mothers and their Children warm at Faith Mission.

For those who may be new to the blog, or perhaps not yet read this. Faith Mission has temporary housing for Mothers and Children who've been homeless and or abused. They have very little and we've been supplying them with hats, mittens, scarves, and slippers and afghans to make their transition go a bit more smoothly. They are warmed, physically by our donations, but also are given hope for a new and improved life by knowing we've knitted and or crocheted something special, something just for them. Please keep your hooks and needles flying, the need is great.

Thank you Nancy, it's wonderful to have you on board with us as our newest pair of helping hands.


2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 54+11=65

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

The Designing of Orange Julius

Now this is just plain fun. Not sure it can get more colorful then this. These rectangles and squares of orange, yellow, green, red, and variegated mixes come from: My Darling Daughter, Christine, Yvonne, RoseMarie, Carol, Kris, Pat, Anne, Joy, Louise, and Krystine from her garage sale find awhile back. The bulk of these fun bright colorful squares are crocheted though there are some knitted ones as well.

I must give some thought to what color to join and edge this ghan with. Perhaps off white/ivory/tan? I generally use darker colors for joining; but...given the amount of color here, might not this time. Then again, maybe orange? I edged the previous orange colorful ghan (Autumn) with a green. Will give this more thought and check my stash. Got an idea....do sing out and let me know.

A few more days til the end of the month when we'll temporarily close our Give a Square Campaign. Remember though it's not going away, it's just going to be dormant for awhile.

As of the writing/scheduling of this post (all posts are written and scheduled ahead), we have a ghan in the works, plus 6 designed and waiting in the wings. When we ending the year 2010 we had donated ghans. Two of those went to our friends at Pine Street, while the remainder to our homeless and abused folks at Faith Mission so much in need.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Blue Jazz

Blue Jazz in the planning stages here. This group of donated squares really has lots of different pieces. A few of the squares are from way back and are smaller then our 7-10 guidelines for our current "Give a Square" project. This group has squares, rectangles, some knit, some crocheted in granny style fashion (in the round), while others are sampler type in design (crocheted end to end).

The number of people who've donated for this one is a bit of a mystery to me, given some of those older squares. Some of which were before Bridge and Beyond was formed. I've picked up some at garage sales in years past, some given to me when someone had a family member who used to crochet or knit. Though perhaps not immediately, everything truly does get used for charity at some point when donated to me. I can tell you the following people have squares in this Blue Jazz Ghan: Joy, RoseMarie, Yvonne, Niki, Sarah S, Christine (DD), and Susan. Please if you see your square here and I've missed you....sing out.

This ghan when completed will go to our Mothers and Children at Faith Mission. Currently, I'm thinking I'll edge and join this ghan in a smokey blue color. I've got a good amount of it in my stash.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 6
Squares 54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

You're never too young to Help Others

Thank you Rebeccah! Rebeccah's mother Cindy contacted me and asked if we could put afghans her daughter made to good use. I infactly said,"YES!" Rebeccah is 15 years old, a fellow Ohioan and look at the talent she has! In addition to talent with her crochet hook at such a young age; can you see what a big heart she has? I bet you can. It leaps right off the computer screen. These lovely, warm, bright, cheery afghans will be loved by those who receive them. Several are nicely sized for children and others will be great for Moms. These 5 crocheted afghans will go to our folks at Faith Mission.

Keep up the good work Rebeccah, and again many thanks for your thoughtful donation. We're thrilled to have your helping hands.

I'm not sure I could pick a favorite, they are all so nice; but the the 3rd picture reminds me of an Indian blanket. Pretty awesome.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1+5=6
Squares 54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

**The upcoming month of February our focus will be slippers. Knitted and crocheted slippers, slippers for men, women, and children. We will continue to collect all the items (give a square will be dormat for awhile), but if you wonder what to make...need an idea of what to make...make slippers** I'll be adding additional information, patterns, and ultimately a calendar in the tabs across the top of the page. Stay tuned.

Hats warm cold homeless heads

6 nice big hats for our folks in need. The 4 black hats will be great for the men, the pink naturally for one of the ladies. No doubt one of the younger boys will love the blue hat.

Thank you once again, Ronnie for your support of the cause. It's wonderful to have your help warming our homeless.

Just about a week left folks for our Rainbow Project and our Give a Square Project. Both will end the end of this month. But, stay tuned...we'll have something special highlighted for the upcoming month of February.

As always keep your hooks and knitting needles busy, hats, scarves, and mittens are needed all year long for men, women, and children. AND slippers please for women and children. Keep up the good work all, and many many thanks for your thoughtful donations. They are truly appreciated.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

More designing fun for Faith Mission

This is a revised design. You might remembering seeing it HERE. I took out quite a bit of white and was able to add more pink and green from some of the more recent donations of squares and rectangles. It's more colorful this way I believe. I don't have any plans to change it further and plan to join it with white or pink; though I've also considered green. Must check my stash and go from there. Leaning white though now that I've removed some of the white squares.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Squares serve so many

More squares to add to the designing fun I've been having for our Mothers and children at Faith Mission. Thank you Sandie in Louisiana for your crocheted squares. They will be put to good use and are very much appreciated.

We'll be collecting squares for 11 more days (until Jan 31st), for our "Give a Square" program. As of the writing of this post (as you know all are scheduled ahead), we have quite a few designed and ready for me to assemble. Remember Give a Square won't go away never to return. It will be dormat for awhile until such time I feel like we need to make more ghans; so please if you like making squares, keep doing so. If you like to make a square or two when you finish other projects with the left over yarn; continue to do that and put them aside. I will be posting another time for you to mail them in. This method I believe keeps things at a manageable level.

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51+3=54

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Designing Warmth for the Homeless with your Squares

This reddish brown ghan has both knitted and crocheted squares and rectangles of various sizes from lots of people. I know several I've had on hand for quite a while (before Give a Square), and therefore don't know whom several are from (remember the groups that sent items when they disbanded); but the more recent contributions come from Joy, RoseMarie, Sarah S, Judy, Liz (minnisoda on the Ville), and James. If you see any of your squares above and I've missed naming you, please sign out. As I've mentioned before it's quite difficult to keep track of who sent what squares; though I do remember quite a few.

I really like this color combo, though in truth probably isn't one I would have thought of before seeing the squares. With the variety of sizing, I'll do lots of piecing this one together. At the moment, I'm thinking of joining it with a burgundy. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of this and previously posted designed ghans, as well as more designs coming from your thoughtful donations. Together, we're warming those folks at Faith Mission, one stitch, one square, and one ghan at a time.

Thank You!

2011
Scarves 27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Scarves for the Homeless

Scarves! Lots of different colors, crocheted scarves from our newest pair of helping hands, Adrienne. Many thanks Adrienne for your thoughtful donation. She sent a wonderful variety of crocheted scarves both in color and design. A couple I think are made from nice soft Homespun, two are cute fun frilly ones for the ladies and well....click on the picture so you can see these.

2011
Scarves 20+7=27
Hats 40
Mittens 1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51

Hope you've taken time to read about Rainbow Project, kids helping kids...how special is that?

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

A personal delivery for the Homeless

Look at this darling knitted matching set. Soooooo cute, so soft, and nice so nice and warm. Some little one will look adorable as well as be warm, thanks to SurlyGirl on Rav (Jessica). I know she said she used bulky yarn and DPN's for the mittens, but also said the pattern for the mittens was a really good one.

Many of us visit back and forth on each other's blog and feel like we get to know each other. Some of us are in groups together and chat that way, some email, but this was a donation made person to person. How cool is that. We're both on Rav, but found we live in the same city and so met up for the hand off. I consider that a bonus, getting to meet face to face.

Many thanks Jessica for your thoughtful donation. Hope to see you again soon in person and or here on Bridge and Beyond.

**Still have time enough to send squares before the end of the month for Give a Square**

2011
Scarves 20
Hats 39+1=40
Mittens 0=1=1
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Designing with Blue and Green

Blue and Green, what fun! Squares and rectangles from lots of folks. I know some are from Sandie, Joy, Alexis, Rose Marie, Jessica and Yvonne as well as my long term stash from before Give a Square. If I missed someone, please sing out. I try to scan the pictures and remember who sent what group of squares. I really can't keep track of each individual one; but don't want to leave anyone out.

This blue and green makes me think of a favorite formal from my high school years. My mother thought I was a bit wacky when I selected blue and green satin fabric for her to make me a dress. The top was turquoise, and the bottom was green. It was a basic empire wasted dress, sleeveless and floor length. I wore it to the winter formal. Loved the dress so much the following year for she added an overlay of a blend of the colors so the dress would look different and I wore it to the prom. Several years later a friend borrowed it for her sister to wear in her wedding. I've never heard back from her since and so never got my dress back. Makes me sad, even to this day. I've gained weight so naturally couldn't wear it now; but Mom made it and it was my favorite.

Am having great fun folks designing with your squares and rectangles, keep em coming. Please keep checking back in...I've got more for you to see.

2011
Scarves 20
Hats 39
Mittens 0
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Pink and Purple Afghan Design

Keep checking in folks. I've been throwing squares and rectangles all over the living room coming up with designs for afghans for our folks at Faith Mission from your generous donations. The above pink and purple combination is sure to bring a smile to someone's face. This is bagged and ready for me to assemble when I finish colorful blocks which is currently in the works. What girl doesn't like pink and purple? Young or old, lol.

This design is made from both squares and rectangles, some are knitted and some are crocheted, some are granny squares and others are sampler style. I know off the top of my head many are squares from Joy, Rose Marie, Karen V, James, and some I've had for a good while from a couple of defunct groups that sent their odds and ends anonymously when they disbanded. Do you see any of your squares or rectangles here? If so, sing out.

Please stay tuned folks, cause while I had the living room a mess...I really went at it designing. Hubby took a look at the living room with squares on all the chairs, coffee table, carpet, etc and said I best leave, "don't want to be in the way of your creating!"

2011
Scarves 20
Hats 39
Mittens 0
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 51

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hats, Scarves, and Squares, The Giving Continues

Thank you James. James does beautiful work (all items are knitted), and has been a long time supporter of the cause here at Bridge and Beyond. We appreciate your dedicated, your hard work, and duration James! 3 nice warm soft hats, 1 fabulous scarf, and 4 squares to add to my collection. Please keep checking in for designs and finished ghans for our folks at Faith Mission from the squares from Give a Square (as well as those I have on hand).

Hand knit and crocheted items give warmth in several ways folks, so please keep them coming. First they give hope to the person who receives them. Hope that things will improve for them. It gives physical warmth from the cold which is so needed, and it let's them know they are not forgotten, that someone somewhere who doesn't know them has taken precious time to make something special...JUST for THEM!

2011
Scarves 19+1=20
Hats 36+3=39
Mittens 0
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 1
Squares 47+4=51

Rainbow Project....kids helping kids runs through the end of January. Have you read about it? Please do.

Recently, Toby (a lady who helps Rae prepare and feed the homeless on Sat am), hand delivered some of our hats, scarves, and mittens to 2 schools who sadly have children in need. Cold children without, some of whom make their way to school despite the difficulties of being homeless, or living in a shelter. Stiles and Darby Dale Elementary schools are part of the Southwestern City School District who've experienced many failed levies and many cuts. We may not be able to make up for the shortfalls with failed levy's, but we can and did make children warmer through your generous and on going support of knitted and crocheted items. Yet again, an example of the word "beyond" in our title.

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!

Completed Vacation Afghan for the Homeless

Happy to say I was able to finish my DD (Christine's) Vacation Ghan. She was quite close to having it completed before she had to return from her visit. This ghan was made in strips, both vertical and horizontal. A variety of stitches were used included double crochet, v-stitch, single crochets, shells, and front post double crochet's. I love how well this turned out and am very proud of her.

I wrote down the measurements, but can't find my note. My memory is something around 54 x 72. Here's a close up of the edging. The edge is 4 rows, with the last row being shells giving it a scalloped edge.

Thank you DD for all your hard work during your vacation.

2011
Scarves 19
Hats 36
Mittens 0
Socks 5
Slippers 3
Ghans 0+1=1
Squares 47

This ghan will go to Faith Mission and keep someone nice and warm due to it's size and thickness.

Please remember 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. It truly DOES make a difference. THANK YOU!