Crocheted Cotton Washcloths from The Garden State

Thank you Bobbi R from New Jersey, The Garden State for these 18 crocheted cotton washcloths. I've been really pleased with the nice of number of cotton washcloths folks have made and donated.

The Garden State is clouded in mystery and uncertainty. There is no "official" documentation to indicate why the state was so named. However, a book published in 1926 indicates Abraham Browning from Camden names it saying, it's like a barrel over flowing with good things to eat with both Pennsylvania and New York grabbing from each of the 2 open ends. However, long before that there is record of Benjamin Franklin referring to the state as a barrel who ends were open. No official reference though from Benjamin Franklin as to garden.

Thank you Bobbi for your thoughtful donation, please keep up the good work.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 313
Scarves: 205
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 141
Squares: 332
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 157
Cotton Washcloths 158+18=176
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)

**Though it's safe now to say, we here in Ohio are FINALLY past the danger of frost, we did just have hail again the other day, so truly items are still needed for those living out in the elements. Shortly (fingers crossed), we'll pass that by and shift to stock pile mode. We continue to knit and crochet and collect items all year long. I'll continue to deliver to the shelters until they hit the limit they can store, then I'll store here until items are needed again next fall. Sadly, that time will be here all too soon, and we do want to be ready.**

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 Palmetto State

Donations from the state of South Carolina, The Palmetto State are from the hook of Emma C. Emma is our newest pair of helping hands. We're thrilled to have you join us from your beautiful South Carolina. For anyone that's curious how the state got that name for it's nickname...it's the state tree, The Sabal Palmetto. Thank you Emma for your thoughtful donation of 3 pairs of mittens, 7 hats, and a scarf.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 306+7=313
Scarves: 204+1=205
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 138+3=141
Squares: 332
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 157
Cotton Washcloths 158
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)

**Though it's safe now to say, we here in Ohio are FINALLY past the danger of frost, we did just have hail again the other day, so truly items are still needed for those living out in the elements. Shortly (fingers crossed), we'll pass that by and shift to stock pile mode. We continue to knit and crochet and collect items all year long. I'll continue to deliver to the shelters until they hit the limit they can store, then I'll store here until items are needed again next fall. Sadly, that time will be here all too soon, and we do want to be ready.**

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 Personal Care for the Homeless

Trying to stay health can be a difficult job for the best of us, even a roof over our heads and hot water. The ability to clean up, shower etc certainly aids us. Thank you AnneMarie for this thoughtful donation of tissues, toothpaste, deodorant, and hand sanitizer. This will go a long way to help those without take care of themselves. Thank you for your on going support, it's so greatly appreciated.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 306
Scarves: 204
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 138
Squares: 332
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 157
Cotton Washcloths 158
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)

**You may have noticed our followers number has grown a bit, which is always nice. Would love to see it grow more, help spread the word...tell your friends, neighbors, co-workers. Maybe they would like to follow us and keep up on what's going on.**

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!

The Power of One

Our good friend Sandie in Florida knows someone who knows someone. The friend of a friend passed away and left this array of squares and circles in her closet. I say the power of one, because one person told one person, and that one person told Sandie in Florida and that one person packed these up and shipped them me here in Ohio. Now as you can see the array of sizes, (some just beginnings of squares) is pretty wide. And they aren't the size you all make and send; but at some point I'll play around with these or see a spot in another ghan that needs a little something and put them to use.

Thank you Sandie's friend of a friend.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 306
Scarves: 204
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 138
Squares: 280+52=332
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 157
Cotton Washcloths 158
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**I'm once again encouraging all you who visit to please please leave comments. Let us know you were here by leaving a comment. Support each other with your comments. Remember it's easy, and you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments. Scroll to the bottom of the blog post, click comments, type your comment, then click the drop down box and select name and url...simply leave the url space blank. This helps the blogs placement with search engines which in turn helps us find more helping hands, which translates into more people we can help. Sooooo, pretty please....leave us a comment. Don't be a scaredy cat. You can do**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hats and Scarves, Warm and Stylish

Our good friend RoseMarie has done it again with signature buttons and flowers. Many thanks RoseMarie for your crocheted hats, scraves and headbands. As always we appreciate your thoughtfulness and your on going support.

As of the writing of this post, it appears all the gliches we've been experiencing with blogger not posting things on time etc, has been fixed. Let there be dancing in the streets...but check for traffic first please. We want a injury free dance zone!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 304+2=306
Scarves: 202+2=204
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 138
Squares: 280
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 157
Cotton Washcloths 158
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**I'm once again encouraging all you who visit to please please leave comments. Let us know you were here by leaving a comment. Support each other with your comments. Remember it's easy, and you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments. Scroll to the bottom of the blog post, click comments, type your comment, then click the drop down box and select name and url...simply leave the url space blank. This helps the blogs placement with search engines which in turn helps us find more helping hands, which translates into more people we can help. Sooooo, pretty please....leave us a comment. Don't be a scaredy cat. You can do**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donations from The Old Domion State

Our good friend and long time supporter Gail B hails from Virginia, The Old Dominion State. She donated 8 pairs of great socks. They look and feel like out door socks (like something a hunter, hiker etc might wear), so should be nice and warm.

What you can't see is her 2nd box of donations; which included 2 more pairs of socks, 6 scarves, 4 cotton washcloths and 3 rain poncho's. I seem not to have a picture. Normally I take the photo and then make notes, so am not sure whether I did something to delete the picture; or in my quest to get 10 boxes opened, photographed, counted and thank you's sent out...I got myself mixed up. Argh. Gail's work is also so nice too, I'm sorry you didn't get to see the picture. As I was opening boxes, photographing, counting, making notes etc, I was also loading up bags. Things had already been delivered when I realized I was missing a picture to go with my note.

As always Gail, please keep up the good and many thanks for your thoughtful donation; both boxes.


2012 Donations:
Hats: 304
Scarves: 196+6=202
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 138
Squares: 280
Socks: 106+8+2=116
Rain Poncho's 154+3=157
Cotton Washcloths 154+4=158
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!

Hat Trick of Help for The Homeless

I built a pyramid with 32 packages (3 bars per package) of soap. lol, that was kinda fun. Our good friend AnneMarie sent soap and more soap. The shelters love getting personal care items as well as the warm goodies. I'm calling this donation of 3 3's a hat trick of help. For any hockey fans out there watching The Stanley Cup Hockey Play off's, and a hat trick is someone who scores 3 goals for those of you who aren't into hockey. She also crocheted 3 pairs of mittens, 3 hats, and 3 scarves. Nicely done and many thanks AnneMarie for your thoughtful donations. Please keep up the good work. Always a pleasure seeing you here on Bridge and Beyond.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 30+3=304
Scarves: 193+3=196
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135+3=138
Squares: 280
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 154
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 take a look at the listings with your names folks. We've made good headway getting states listed with those of you whom are bloggers; less headway with those of you who aren't. Please review the list of non bloggers, and the list of those with RAV, Facebook, Hive etc. pages and see if a state is listed with your name. If it's not, please...pretty please with sugar on it, leave a comment telling us what state your from so I can update lists, map, and database. You do not need to be a blogger to leave a comment. It's fast, and easy and it helps the blog. Type your message, then simply click the drop down box and select name and url. Type your name and leave the url space empty.**

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 Germany!

If you've been reading post lately, you know our Dear Friend, Katie B sends knitted and crocheted goodies all the way from a military base in Germany. If that doesn't make you believe in the goodness in people......I don't know what will. Thank you, Thank you Katie for remember your roots back here in Ohio and thank you to you and your husband for serving abroad. We are lucky to have people like the two of you serving us.

Katie's on going support of our cause is soooooooooooo awesome. She's crocheted and donated 10 cotton washcloths, 6 scarves, and 11 hats. Katie...you ROCK!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 290+11=301
Scarves: 187+6=193
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 280
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 144+10=154
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Reminder folks to tuck in your tails, best to do that as you work rather then leaving them til the end. Working them in as you go makes the item more finished and more secure. **


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 Gem State

Thank you Tamie G, our newest pairs of helping hands from the state of Idaho, The Gem State for this donation of 13 crocheted cotton washcloths and soap. These are items always needed by the various shelters and are very much appreciated. Happy to have you join us here, and hope to see you often.

AND folks with Tamie's donation and help....drum roll please...............
We've added another state to our map. Please scroll to the bottom of the blog. We now 35 states that have donated (only 15 states that haven't), and 6 countries outside the US that have helped us out.

Surely there's someone in: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Conn, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Miss, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas and or Utah that knows how to knit or crochet and would like to give to help someone less fortunate. Wouldn't it be FABULOUS if we had every state representative with a caring giving person? Throwing the challenge out there....which I do from time to time.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 290
Scarves: 187
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 280
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 131+13=144
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Reminder folks to tuck in your tails, best to do that as you work rather then leaving them til the end. Working them in as you go makes the item more finished and more secure. **

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!

The Show Me State Donates Cotton Washcloths

Pretty, colorful and always appreciated knitted washcloths from Susan S from Missouri, The Show Me State. Lovely color selection Susan, many thanks for your support...please keep showing us. I think making the corner to corner style might be favorite pattern.......I don't have to write that one down. lol I love all the designs but really do need the patterns written down so I can count and keep track where I am.

Keep up the good work Susan.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 290
Scarves: 187
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 280
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 131+10=141Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**If you've not read the information in the tabs across the top of the blog recently, please do take to do so. Things have been added.**

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 a Speedy Hook in Georgia

4 Squares, 5 matching hat and scarves set all crocheted and donated by Diana K from The Peach Tree State (Georgia). Unsure if Diana mailed her 3 boxes all at one time or whether they came at different times through out my time away; so am grouping them here all together. I love the pretty shade of purple! Obviously she used her left over yarn from the hats and scarves to make some granny squares too. Good utilization.
16 crocheted granny squares here....can you see how these plus the ones above are all going to go well together!
AND 6 more matching sets of hats and scarves. Woot Woot! Diana your hook must be on file! Many thanks for your thoughtful donations. Keep up the good work.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 279+5+6=290
Scarves: 176+5+6=187
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260+4+16=280
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 131
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!

Ohio and Tennessee Team Up and Donate

Above 6 donated knitted and crocheted washcloths (particularly love the basket weave tan and brown one. These 6 cloths are donated by either Judy B from Ohio or Suzann W from Tennessee. Great Donations from either The Buckeye State or The Volunteer State (how perfect that nickname is).
These 6 knitted washcloths are also either donated by Judy B in Ohio or Suzann W in Tennessee. Both my notes say 6 washcloths, both pictures have 6 washcloths so when I went to edit pictures and label pictures in preparation for writing the scheduled post I didn't know who's 6 belong to whom. I also keep the notes you include with your donations (when you do), and or cut the mailing label off the box or pouch and stack them on my desk to use for posting. Each note has notes like: photo, email, blog and what the donation was. When I take the photo I check it off, when I sent thank you email...I check it off, when I write blog post I check it off and pitch the note. Soooooooooooo, you see my puzzle. I use the notes to label the pictures......never had this happen before where the same number of cloths, or hats etc were listed.

So, I thank you both Judy B and Suzann W for your thoughtful donations. I appreciate them both. Sing out if you're reading this and tell me who's 6 cloths were yours. Rest assured both groups of 6 are needed and appreciated.

Edited***Thanks Suzann W from Tenn for helping by identifying your 6 are the bottom six. Appreciate the helping hand!***

2012 Donations:
Hats: 279
Scarves: 176
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 119+6+6=131
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!

Yippee for Cotton WashCloths from The North Star State

Minnesota has 2 nicknames really. The North Star State and The Land of 1000 Lakes. Both seem most appropriate, though I tend to remember North Star more. Unsure if one nickname is more official or has been around longer. But, these knitted (11) and crocheted (6) cotton wash cloths are donated by our good friend, Liz from Minnesota. Thank you Liz. We really never have enough it seems. This item is always on the request list from both family shelters (The Y and Homeless Families Foundation). Colors are brighter then my pictures shows. Believe this was the last picture I took right before changing batteries.

Thank you for your thoughtful donation Liz and your on going support. We sure appreciate it and you.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 279
Scarves: 176
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 102+17=119
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Folks please review tabs for specific items for reminders and guidelines regarding colors, sizes, tucking in ends. I've also added some patterns you might find helpful**

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 SunShine State

The warmth in Florida pretty much negates the need for big warm scarves there, so our long time friend, Sandie continues to support our cause with 2 nice large scarves. Thank you Sandie for your on going support, and...as of the writing of this scheduled post....thank you for including some sunshine. Though it's quite cool today, it is at least sunny. History tell us we here in Ohio have several more weeks before we hit the all clear for frost at night warnings...something to be celebrated for sure.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 279
Scarves: 174+2=176
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 102
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts etc)

**Folks please review tabs for specific items for reminders and guidelines regarding colors, sizes, tucking in ends. I've also added some patterns you might find helpful**

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!

I Tip My Hat

I tip my hat, I tip my hat, I tip my hat...........lol. I tip my hat to you Cheryl 33 times. Fabulous colors in these 33 knitted hats. She uses wide ribs so they have lots of cool texture and they're very stretchy which makes them great for heads of many sizes. Cheryl G. I keep forgetting to ask you what type of yarn you use...is it sock yarn? It's so nice and soft.

In addition to the hats Cheryl, a friend from years ago when we went to school together, sent 4 cotton washcloths. Many thanks Cheryl for your on going support. Please, keep up the good work.

In the previous post you see a white plastic bag. This is the donation her darling hubby totted when he ventured here from Florida for The Ohio State Spring Football Game.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 246+33=279
Scarves: 174
Slippers: 65
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 135
Squares: 260
Socks: 106
Rain Poncho's 154
Cotton Washcloths 98+4=102
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!

What a Haul Mr. MailMan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Mittens Donated from the Keystone State

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Designing Crown Jewels

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

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

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

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



All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donations, Thank you Crochet Magazine

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

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Large warm soft Scarves for Ohio's Homeless

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

What your Donations Become

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

**PLEASE read size and color requirements on tabs across the top of the blog. Some items have changed. Patterns are also available.**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Scarves from New Jersey Donated in Ohio

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donating Crocheted Cotton Washcloths

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

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

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

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

**another post not showing up as scheduled**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donating Day at The Beach Afghan

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donating Yarn can be Inspiring

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

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

**Once again blogger is not working properly, this should have been published by now, for the last week, I've had to come to the edit and post everything manually, very frustrating and slowing up the process of getting all your wonderful donations properly posted, my apologize...assume it's because blogger is making way too many changes, much like facebook forcing them and they haven't worked out the bugs. I want my old Blogger back!!**
All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

2 Wonderful Boxes Donated for Ohio's Homeless

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

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Beach Ball Afghan Donated

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

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

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Hitting The April Focus with Zeal

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Donations from The Bead Queen

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

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

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

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!