Springtime Design

So far the name that popped into my head for this afghan design is Springtime....is that lame? Got another idea? The blues and yellows made me think that. Depending what I do with some other designs I may or may not have blue and or yellow to edge and join this afghan with. Maybe even dark green? Only time will tell. Are you looking through all these afghans recently designed and finding your squares and rectangles? I hope so.

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

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 269
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Please stay current with updates, leave comments with any questions and or email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com**

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!

Pastel Garden Afghan Design

Right after designing this and photographing this, I decided to remove the teddy bear square in the upper right corner. It's part of Wee Irish if you'll remember. The idea hit me as I was getting ready to label and bag these squares. So I figured I didn't need to take another picture. I would know the one square not pictured would be in it's place. I'm hoping I have enough light green to edge and join this afghan.

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

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 269
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Please stay current with updates, leave comments with any questions and or email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com**


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!

Rust Can be Pretty

When I think of the word Rust, I think of old, worn out or in need of work. Well this afghan design isn't old, or worn out, though it does need work, lol. It needs edged and joined. That word though was the first that popped into my head. Remember I told you I was designing like a mad man for a couple of days. So, unless someone comes up with a better name for this one...and I'm open to that; this one will be named Rust.
I still have plenty of designs to share with you. Remember, back a few posts I've mentioned a major design fest here in my living room. You should be seeing lots of your squares folks here, and in previous posts, as well as in upcoming posts. Did you miss them? Scroll back and see if you can identify some of yours. PLEASE PLEASE make a point to read the change in policy regarding knitting/crocheting and donating squares. Click HERE, or refer to the squares tab on the top of the blog.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 269
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Please stay current with updates, leave comments with any questions and or email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com**

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!

Purple Mountain Majesty

I've tried to match this camo tan yarn up with several previous afghan designs and just couldn't get firmly behind it. But.........here now, I believe is a match. I think this camo tan donated yarn will work really well with this afghan, I've named Purple Mountain Majesty. Who see's some of their squares here?

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

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 269
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Please stay current with updates, leave comments with any questions and or email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com**

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 our Nations Capital

Thank you Alison, our newest pair of helping hands from our Nations Capital, Washington DC for this thoughtful donation. Alison's blog has been added to the blog log. Please hop over and see her and welcome her to the group. Look at these lovely knitted scarves (11). Lots of different colors and different designs and stitches and yarn/fiber. All so nicely sized! I like nice big enough to wrap up in scarves.

Did a close up to show you 2 with really interesting stitches. The green on the let is a really awesome cable, and I'm not sure what to call the one on the left. The picture doesn't show it's color well, it's light blue. The above dark purple (3rd from the right) is the same fun and interesting stitch. Alison, Love to know what stitch that is and what patterns you used on these 2 scarves. Very cool! Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 258+11=269
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Working Calendar updated, Please see NEW requirements for donating squares in the squares tab. If you'd like to know the reason behind the change...check this post.**


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!

Grandma's Garden Pretty Pastels

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

I'm calling this afghan, Grandma's Garden. Will be checking shades and amount of pinks, violets, and blues I think for edging and joining this afghan. Or maybe yellow? As always it depends on what I have in the stash in the right amounts; but please feel free to jump in with an idea here or anytime.

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

**Please stay current with updates, leave comments with any questions and or email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com**

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 Desert Night

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

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

2012 Donations:
Hats: 476
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

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

Donations from The Volunteer State

Woot Woot...a new pair of helping hands. I always love having new folks join us. Marie P is from Tennessee, The Volunteer State. We're thrilled to have you join us with your skillful hands and big heart Marie. 4 Awesome soft warm knitted hats, love the grey too. She's covered top and bottom...top being the head with her donation of hats, and bottom being feet with her donation of socks (4). Both are always a hit!

The hats are a nice mix in sizes on top of being so nice and soft and warm. Many thanks for your thoughtful donation. Hope to see you here often on Bridge and Beyond. Don't be shy. Do let us here from you. I always encourage folks to chat via comments and support each other's work. You do not need to be a blogger to leave a comment. Type your comment, click the drop down box and select name and url, leave url empty. That's all there is to it.

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. Or Click HERE

2012 Donations:
Hats: 472+4=476
Scarves: 258
Slippers: 121
Shawls: 2
Sweaters 3
Vest 1
Afghans: 24
Mittens: 257
Squares: 345
Socks: 116+4=120
Rain Poncho's 198
Cotton Washcloths 369
Misc Items are not counted individually (such as personal care items, headbands, gators, yarn, wrist warmers/fingerless gloves, face-masks, neck warmers, t-shirts, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrushes etc).

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

Patriotic Red, White and Blue

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

A Bit of The Irish

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

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

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

A Box of Crayons

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

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

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

Announcement and Details about the Contest and GiveAway HERE.

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

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

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

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

Donations from The 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!