Patriotic Red, White and Blue

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

A Bit of The Irish

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

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

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

A Box of Crayons

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

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

Donations from The Bay State

Thank you Melody and Penny from Massachusetts, The Bay State. Melody and Penny belong to a group called Knotty Knitters. Thank you for your thoughtful donation and your on going support. We surely appreciate it.

Hope you are still having fun with your group, and please don't be strangers here on Bridge and Beyond. We look forward to see you and your other members again, Soon!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 472
Scarves: 252+6=258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Have you all read about the contest, have you taken advantage of all 3 opportunities to get your name in the hat....gotta get in it to win the give away. What are you waiting for. Annoucement and details found on July 1st post.**

***Did you read The Please Do's and Please Do NOT Do's?***

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!

Veterans Served Us, It's Time for US to Repay the Service

(I borrowed this post from my last 4th of July post, the sobering facts remain)
This isn't a current flag, it's hoisted and proudly flown at Fort McHenry in Maryland. I took this photo a few years ago, while hubby and I were touring. Look at the size of this flag. I wanted to share it with you today, July 4th as we celebrate our Nations Birthday. It's a day to be proud, a day to remember how we got here, who's sacrificed for us.

Sadly, many of those who did serve and protect us, who fought for our freedoms probably aren't celebrating today, not with a family picnic and fireworks. Why? Because they are homeless! They live hand to mouth, out in the elements, in unsafe conditions, wondering in some cases if they'll make it through the night. Wondering if they'll ever be dry and warm again. Yes, it's summer across the country and they currently are going to freeze at night; but the warmer months pass all too quickly. Soon, they'll be huddled against the wind, the rain, the snow and sleet.

Accordingly to The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans 1/3 of all adult homeless people are Veterans. Half those homeless Veterans served during the difficult Vietnam Years. While the bulk of homeless Veterans are male, about 5% are female, and that number is rising with more females in the service of our country. Most homeless Veterans are single, and live in an urban area. Many have health issues, be they mental illnesses, alcoholism and or drugs; or a combination thereof.

As you celebrate with a good meal and fun times with your loved ones today, make a commitment. A commitment to make something for the homeless. Making one thing can be HUGE. Knit or crochet and make a difference. Make a hat, a scarf, a pair of slippers, a pair of mittens, a cotton washcloth, or a square. They've given so much, let's say Thank You and serve others through our yarn.

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

**Read about the contest and giveaway...CLICK HERE**

New Helping Hands from The Bay State

Say hello to our newest pair of helping hands, Rose M, from the state of Massachusetts; The Bay State. We're thrilled to have you join us Rose. Thank you for your thoughtful donation of hats (17), slippers (38) and mittens (1). I'm particularly thrilled to get that number of slippers from. Awesome. All the folks, men, women, and children use those at the various Family Shelters.

Look at the great variety of sizes and colors Rose made. Special thanks too Rose for pairing up and joining your slippers.......such a nice time saver for me. Can you tell us what pattern you used? I think maybe you used more then one, but it appears one was pretty prevalent. Our folks are always intersted to know what pattern people use...particularly for slippers and mittens.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 455+17=472
Scarves: 252
Slippers: 83+38=121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 256+1=257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Have you all read about the contest, have you taken advantage of all 3 opportunities to get your name in the hat....gotta get in it to win the give away. What are you waiting for. Annoucement and details found on July 1st post.**

***Reminders of Do's and Don Do...some might be new to you, PLEASE read***

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

Donations from The Golden Gate Bridge State

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

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

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

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

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

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

Team Work is Awesome...Announcing A Contest-Give Away

Below in no particular order you see afghans made from your thoughtful donated squares. There are many different colors, many different sizes, many different types of squares (rectangles) which make many different types of afghans. Some are traditional in design, some have a definite pattern, some come together without a pattern. Some squares were knitted, some were crocheted. Some afghans where assembled with squares from lots of different hands, while others were made with squares from the ame volunteer. Please share with me the joy at seeing what the beauty of team work can do. Each thumbnail is clickable and will link you to the blog post to see the afghan picture larger as well as details about the afghan and sometimes who the squares came from (when I could remember, lol).

Please take time and look through these and see how many of your squares you can find. PLEASE leave a comment stating you found your squares in afghan #..As you can see there are 5 afghan pictures per row . If you can point out your squares even better, which square in which ghan.? You may also leave comments on the actual post that highlights the afghan made from your squares. Enjoy and please be chatty. Let's see how many comments we can get.















They say a picture is worth 1000 words, well how bout 22 pictures! Give yourselves a pat on the back. And remember I still have plenty of squares here (in case you don't see some or all of yours). I have ghans in que that have been designed waiting to be assembled, AND I have squares waiting to be designed. Stay tuned. I'm feeling itchy about designer more.

AND....I think it's time to have another contest. Why..? I like to to for One, for two comments have really died down which is a negative for the blog, and 3 I have goodies to give away.

Soooooooooo, to get your name in the hat leave a comment here stating which ghan is your favorite and why, get a 2nd name in the hat when after leaving a comment here you leave a comment on at least one of the above ghan posts (tell me which one please so I can keep track).

Want another chance to win, sure you do. Blog about it with a link here; or post a facebook link, or tweet about. Be sure and let me know if you blogged, tweeted, or facebooked. You have the full month of July to get your 3 opportunities to win goodies. It's a win win, you support each other by commenting on people's work, you get to reflect on the value of team work when you look at the pictures, and you get the opportunity to win. (Squares will NOT be collected until late this year, PLEASE hold off sending any for the time being).

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

Please Do, and Please do not Do

Been awhile since I've posted reminders of what to do, and what not to do. And while all is listed on the specific tabs on the top of the blog, I feel the need to post again here. I know not everyone is a blogger, but I do hope those who aren't still read things here to help us along the way.

Please DO include your name, your email address, your blog url, your profile page url from Facebook, Ravelry, Crochetville and the like so that I might make contact. I am sorry but truly do not have the ability to notify everyone via snail mail that their donations have arrived. Please DO include this, even if you wish to be anonymous here on the blog. I can honor your request to be anonymous here on the blog, but...when you don't include a note, or when the name on the box is your husbands, or when I know you by a nickname different then your real name or screen name etc. I spend lots of time trying to figure out who you are. I really like to let you know your items have arrived safely so you're not wondering.

Please DO attach things that are suppose to be pairs, like mittens and slippers. Sometimes you send multiple items in the same color and I have to measure, and or try on to determine what goes with what. Please save me time, it's so precious.

Please DO label items like hats, mittens, slippers....things where size is an issue. I don't know what size you made, or what size the pattern said they were suppose to be. The little paper tags attached with string work super well. Not only does it save me time measuring, trying on, guessing, and or comparing to others.............it saves time when they reach the shelters. Save precious time so we can get these items in the hands of those who need them quickly.

Please DO use ONLY washable fibers (wool and acrylic).

PLEASE, Please DO remove pet hair/fur and laundered if item has odor of animal and or smoke.

***********
Please, Please DO NOT use suede with your knitting and crocheting. It does not hold it's shape, wear well, or hold up when laundered.

Please DO NOT use open airy lacey stitches with your knitting and crocheting. If you can see your hand through the item, or easily poke your fingers through; it is too lacey and therefore not warm enough.

Please DO NOT spray donated items with perfume, if you're trying to cover pets odors, please launder instead.

Please DO NOT tie a knot and cut. This will never hold up. ALWAYS (no exceptions) leave tails when you join a new piece of yarn/or change color. AND ALWAYS work your tails in (except the last round of square). Please leave that tail. Sincere apologies folks, I know this takes your time when you make your items, but if you don't do them; I lay them aside until I have time. It truly takes more of my time then yours when you consider the number of folks donating.

Please DO NOT use white, ivory, or off white. It's also best to avoid pastels. The Darker colors are more versatile for both adults and children...be they male or female AND they don't show the dirt.

Please and thanks!

**Details of Contest/Give Away Tomorrow, July 1st........Don't miss it**

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!

How to Best Help Ohio's Homeless

There are so many ways to help homeless, both here in Ohio and in your state. You can donate money, you can volunteer hours, you can clean out your wardrobe and pass along gently used items you no longer need to various shelters. You can knit, you can crochet and or loom and donate here to Bridge and Beyond. We here at Bridge and Beyond, provide for Men, Women, and Children in Central Ohio. We donate hand knit and hand crocheted hats, scarves, mittens, slipper, cotton washcloths to those in need.

We donate to 3 family shelters: Homeless Families Foundation, Faith Mission, and The Family Shelter portion of The YWCA. We donate to Holy Family (a large food bank that feeds thousands), we donate to St. Vincent DePaul (in Vinton County, Ohio), we donate to The Bridge People (those truly living outside in the elements), we donate to The Mens Shelter through Faith Mission. We donate all year long, all 12 months of the year.

One of the ways we help is our project Welcome Home, where we provide homemade Afghans to those families that transition from Shelter living to their own home/apt. We provide Afghans to say Congratulations on your new home, we provide Afghans to say Good Luck in your new life. We currently provide these Afghans to those making that transition from The Homeless Families Foundation.

The above Afghan (still in need of a name) is being knit from yarn I had here in my stash, as well as yarn that's been donated by good people like yourselves. This feather and fan stitch afghan is a bit different then the heavier, more solid afghans we've been donating. I'm uncertain about donating this when done, or trying to explore a way to use this afghan to collect funds to donate to Homeless Families Foundation. I don't how realistic this idea is. Have any of you held a raffle to collect funds? If so, was it successful? How did you do it? How much money were you able to collect?

Silent Auction? How would that process work? Ideas? Anxious to hear them.

The afghan is approaching it's half way mark.

Also....love to have suggestions for a name. You know I love to name afghans, but am completely blank thus far on this one.

Sing out.

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

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

**Working Calendar now complete through Dec. 31st 2012**

****Contest, Give Away Announcement and Details on July 1st****

Thanks to Bunny below in the comments, this ghan now has a name. Love the name Sea and Sand.

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!

Unknown Donation from St. Louis

Thank you ????? unknown crocheter from St. Louis. Received these 2 awesome hats and scarves and the mailing label tell me it came from St. Louis, but......there was no note to indicate who are thoughtful person is.

Love having new helping hands, and hope to see you again here; but wish I knew who you were. I've looked through some recent emails but didn't find what I thought was a match for this donation. If you're out there reading this, please make contact either here on the blog or through email at sandycrochet@gmail.com. Anonymous donations are ok...certainly; but please for my bookkeeping let me know who you are.

These hats and scarves are so nice and warm and soft. Looks like they're made with double yarn for added warmth, awesome!

2012 Donations:
Hats: 449+2=451
Scarves: 250+2=252
Slippers: 82
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 23
Mittens: 252
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

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

**Working Calendar now through years end Dec 31, 2012**

****Contest, Give Away Announcement and Details to be posted on July 1st****

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!

Awesome Cotton WashCloths

Look how pretty these corner to corner knitted washcloths are. Love the colors, particularly the orange. I don't really need more cotton....but, I really like that orange. Thank you Sue W (SSeger on Rav) for your thoughtful donation. We greatly appreciated it.All 3 family shelters receive these cotton washcloths we knit and crochet. Often their used in their move in packs. You're finally able to get a roof over your head and you want a shower, how bout one with your very own specially made for you washcloth!

And, The Homeless Families Foundation often adds some of our knitted and crocheted cotton washcloths to their Welcome Home Package. You've lived in a common space, a shelter and finally you get a place of your own. How nice to have nice new washcloths!

So you see, they really are a nice item. Keep up the good work Sue.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 449
Scarves: 250
Slippers: 82
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 23
Mittens: 252
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 363+6=369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

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

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

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

Fabulous Giving from the State of Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donations from Virginia for Ohio's Homeless

Lovely and thoughtful crocheting from the state of Virginia donated by our newest pair of helping hands, Dorothy M. Thrilled to have you join us Dorothy. Thank you for this thoughtful donations of hats, mittens, slippers, scarves, and rain poncho's. A special thanks for tagging everything and joining your mittens and slippers. That saves me tremendous amounts of time. I do ask everyone to pair their items and label with size. Not only does that help me, but it's helps at the other end as well when things are distributed at the various shelters.

Great color selection here too. Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

Dorothy included a note with her donation that indicated she retired in 2011 and has more to knit and crochet then she did before. She contributes to other charities as well.
2012 Donations:
Hats: 439+5=444
Scarves: 248+1=249
Slippers: 81+1=82
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 147+4=151
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 196+2=198
Cotton Washcloths 354
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, facemasks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc)

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

From Michigan to Tennessee and Back Again

We've been sharing stories of why some of us knit or crochet for charity. I find all the stories heart warming and inspiring and hope you do too.

If you've missed reading them, here they are. Please do take time to read them, and as always leave us a comment so we know you were here. Remember you do not need to be a blogger to do so. Simply type your comment, then click name and url in the drop down box and leave the url space blank. We like knowing who visits and reads our posts, we like having support for each other's crafts/donations and stories, and spending time on the blog leaving comments etc. helps the blog which in turn helps us help more people in need. So please, those of you who are shy (and I know there's a good number of you out there), please leave messages when you visit us.

We've been sharing stories...about why we donate. If you've not read them, please do. And when you read them, please leave a comment so we know you were there/here. Remember you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments. And leaving comments, spending time on the blog reading does help the blog.

**Sharing stories about why we donate:
My story Here
Wendy H tells here story HERE
Sandie P's story HERE
Diana K's story HERE
Sue F tells her story HERE
Sherry K tells her story HERE
Katie's story is HERE

And now, you can read why Sue W from Michigan donates. You might know Sue from Ravelry as SSeger. She's moved from Michigan to Tennessee and now is back in Michigan.

The reasons I knit for charity are: I just can not sit and watch TV and not have knitting in my hands. There are so many people out there who have less than I do, so I want to help them. I don't have much money, but I have yarn.
I started knitting for charity about 25 yrs ago when I lived in Muskegon, MI. The mall put up a mitten Christmas tree for the poor, well I did not knit mittens, but I made scarves for the tree for several years. Then I moved to TN. Stopped knitting for a while, then I found a group in Nashville that I knitted for. Got a computer, and signed up with Revelry. There I was able to find even more charities to knit for and that is how I found Bridge and Beyond.

*Thank you Sue for sharing your story with us. We're happy to have you join us from whatever state you're from. Hope your move went well.*

**Anyone notice this is post #763? WOW, can you believe it? I'm thinking about another contest...by way of celebrating....please stay tuned for an announcement**

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!

Crocheted Donations from Tennessee

Thank you RoseMarie for your thoughtful donation of 13 rain poncho's, crocheted slippers, scarf and hat. RoseMarie also included personal care items in her donation of soap and shampoo, which the shelters are always happy to receive. RoseMarie has been such a faithful supporter now for some time, always adding "her special touches" to her crocheted goodies.

RoseMarie hails from the state of Tennessee which if you read my last post when she donated you know to be The Volunteer State.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 438+1=439
Scarves: 247+1=248
Slippers: 79+2=81
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 147
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 183+13=196
Cotton Washcloths 354
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)

We've been sharing stories...about why we donate. If you've not read them, please do. And when you read them, please leave a comment so we know you were there/here. Remember you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments. And leaving comments, spending time on the blog reading does help the blog.

**Sharing stories about why we donate:
My story Here
Wendy H tells here story HERE
Sandie P's story HERE
Diana K's story HERE
Sue F tells her story HERE
Sherry K tells her story HERE
Katie's story is 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!

My Hats off to you, Katie in Germany

Katie B has knitted and crochet and donated 40 hats. Hats in a variety of sizes and colors. All fabulously made to warm the cold in need people here in Ohio all the way from Germany! Katie we love having your skilled hands help us with the cause of giving to those who need help.

A hat is such an important item to have. A hat can make a huge difference in how warm and or dry you are. We loose lots of heat through our head. There is some controversy about how much heat we loose when our heads not covered. Scientist originally thought one lost about 45% of the body's heat when not wearing a hat; some no longer believe the percentage is quite that high; but all do agree it is ESSENTIAL for survival outdoors. Add that it can keep you dryer, add that it can keep you from ear aches....and you can see how important a hat is to someone living outdoors, under a bridge...asleep in an alley. Many people in need also wear hats in doors, even if they're lucky enough to have a roof over their heads.....because often they live without proper heat.

Thank you Katie for your thoughtful donation, we surely appreciate all you do.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 398+40=438
Scarves: 247
Slippers: 79
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 147
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 183
Cotton Washcloths 354
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)

We've been sharing stories...about why we donate. If you've not read them, please do. And when you read them, please leave a comment so we know you were there/here. Remember you do not need to be a blogger to leave comments. And leaving comments, spending time on the blog reading does help the blog.

**Sharing stories about why we donate:
My story Here
Wendy H tells here story HERE
Sandie P's story HERE
Diana K's story HERE
Sue F tells her story HERE
Sherry K tells her story HERE
Katie's story is 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!

Why Katie B. Donates, all the way from Germany!

About a week ago I posted about why I donate and asked you to share with us why you do. What motivates you. Though clearly we all have the common denominator of wanting to help others, we do have some different internal reason that keep us all going. If you missed reading these inspiring stories, please take a minute and click to catch up. If you've not shared with us your inspiration, please send me an email and let me know.

**Sharing stories about why we donate:
My story Here
Wendy H tells here story HERE
Sandie P's story HERE
Diana K's story HERE
Sue F tells her story HERE
Sherry K tells her story HERE

And now you can read why Katie B, who's on a military base in Germany crochets and donates by sending her items here to Ohio to help the homeless.

I first learned to crochet about 4 years ago when my boyfriend (now husband) joined the Army and was sent to Basic Training. I started with just simple granny squares and after I made enough to complete an afghan I realized that I couldn't keep making items for myself or family members all the time. So I went on the Internet and looked for charities that accepted crochet items. I loved the concept of HAP which provides afghans to wounded soldiers. People send in rectangles and they use 49 in each blanket so each blanket could potentially have rectangles from 49 different people. Working on rectangles kept me occupied when Andrew was away.

Once we were married and sent to our duty station in Germany I had to adjust to military life. It was and still is hard to deal with your life revolving around the military all the time. Sometimes I just need an escape from it so I decided to focus instead on another charity and somehow I found Bridge and Beyond. I think I read about it on Crochetville. I like how so many different items are accepted so that way I don't get bored making the same thing all the time.

Crocheting is such a good stress reliever for me. Helping out others while doing something I love is a win win situation.

**Thank you for finding us Katie, and thank you to you and your husband for your service to our country.**

The Pink Lilly is my favorite of all my Lillies, because it's heavenly scent. I look forward to this one blooming every year. This picture is from last year. The rabbits I can't seem to get rid of have totally eaten this one to the nub...so, it's not going to bloom this year. Anyone want to come hunting in my backyard....Rabbit Stew Perhaps?

****I'd also like to mention here that HAP is a closed group, and is in fact soon to shut down for a variety of reasons. Thought I should mention that in case anyone was thinking of searching them out.****

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!

Why Sherry K. donates

About a week ago I posted about why I donate and asked you to share with us why you do. What motivates you. Though clearly we all the common denominator of wanting to help others, we do have some different internal reason that keep us all going. If you missed reading these inspiring stories, please take a minute and click to catch up. If you've not shared with us your inspiration, please send me an email and let me know.

**Sharing stories about why we donate:
My story Here
Wendy H tells here story HERE
Sandie P's story HERE
Diana K's story HERE
Sue F tells her story HERE

And now, you can read why our friend Sherry K. donates and gives of herself. Thank you Sherry. Glad to count you among us and glad to call you friend (and all the other good people here).

When I was about 7 years old my mother had a friend who lived across the street from us. She had 12 children and still had time to crochet. She was always making baby blankets and I loved to sit and watch her. So I believe it was her that gave me the desire to crochet and I have crocheted many blankets over the years. I even belonged to a group that made blankets for the elderly in nursing homes for a while. But at that point I didn't really think of that as giving to charity.

In 2007, I became very ill and could not work. Up to that point I was very busy raising my family and working 70 hours a week. I had let the crocheting go by the wayside even though I had boxes of yarn put away. Once I became ill my husband lost his job shortly thereafter. For a period of 8 months we didn't know how were were going to pay the rent or have food on the table. Every month we had a leave on 3 days notice on our door. Also, many times we stood in lines at the food pantries. It made me realize just how many people that were in the world with the basic needs for living. My husband got called back to work a year ago and shortly before that I was approved for disability so we are much better off.

This started a desire for me to help those less fortunate and the homeless are close to my heart. I know there are needy everywhere but I have a firm belief that you should help your own first. I checked online for charities and found Bridge and Beyond. I,ve sent in a couple of boxes but intend on sending much more. I met a friend through this charity who has led me to other charities as well, but Bridge and Beyond will always be my first choice to give to since it will help the homeless.

I am very limited in what I can do but crocheting and a little knitting I can do so I decided to use my skills and yarn to warm those in need.

**We so glad you were so inspired Sherry. I'm blown away thinking of the women with 12 children having time to do anything. She was obviously a very special woman. Sorry you were so ill, how wonderful to have you here with us.**

2012 Donations:
Hats: 398
Scarves: 247
Slippers: 79
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 22
Mittens: 147
Squares: 345
Socks: 116
Rain Poncho's 183
Cotton Washcloths 354
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)

The above picture isn't current, in that I've gotten further along on that afghan since I had time to get a photograph. It has a couple more stripes currently. It's knitted, feather and fan stitch. Currently, I have 2 thoughts regarding this afghan I'm working on. Initially, thought it would be donated; as all the others have been (from your squares etc) to The Homeless Families Foundation for the Welcome Home Project. Then thought/wondered if I might do more good by having a raffle for it and use the money from the raffle as a donation. I've changed the design of this ghan now several times....probably about to change it again. Am using up grey, I had in my stash (have less then I originally thought I had), using the tan (donated), and the multi-colored skeins (6 also donated). Seems it may be smaller then I anticipated based on the yarn amounts I have so....re-thinking again the design. It's sorta changes on the fly as I knit.

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!