The T21 Traveling Afghan Project

Then and Now: Amber R.

2012-02-07T11:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my! Do you remember this adorable little girl from this post??

Well, little Miss Amber has grown quite a bit since she first received her afghan in June of 2009! But as you can see, she is loving it just as much as she did back then!

She's just as beautiful as ever!!

An Afghan For Mia R.

2012-02-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

Little Miss Mia was born on July 12, 2007 and passed away on April 24, 2008.

Here is the afghan I made in Mia's memory:

And here it is, along with a picture of the adorable little angel!

Per Mia's Mom:

Thank you so much for Mia's Memory Afghan. It's beautiful, just beautiful- and huge! I put a photo of sweet Mia on it because sadly I can't post a picture with Mia. We can't wait to get the one for Julius. Thanks so much for your work- it means more than you know.

You can read all about Miss Mia on her Mom's blog, Mia Hat Eins Mehr (while the blog is written in German, you can translate it automatically in most web browsers.) And congratulations to Mia's family on the recent arrival of her new little brother, Julius!

An Afghan For Ozzie N.

2012-02-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

Many years ago, I had a Dad order an afghan for his son. First, he wanted to make sure I was engaged in fair trade practices.

I'm very intrigued about ordering an afghan for Oz. What does that mean, exactly. Who is making it - is some little old lady donating her time? You don't have her locked up in the basement, I hope. Is there info about this on the main site that I should check out?

I gave him the appropriate information and assured him that no little old ladies are harmed (or locked up) in the creation of an afghan. Once he was satisfied with my information, he went ahead and ordered an afghan for his son.

Now, most people will let me know what color they would like their afghan to be and leave it at that. Oh, but not THIS Dad! This Dad deals with illustrations as his job, so he was well prepared for me! I opened up an email from him containing an image. (Oh, how I wish I had saved that image!) In it, Ozzie's Dad had illustrated exactly how he wanted his son's afghan to look, complete with a rocket ship, moon and planets.

Now, I've been hooking afghans for a very short amount of time. I taught myself how to crochet about five years ago and the T21 Traveling Afghan was created in February of 2009. That's a VERY short amount of time in the grand scheme of learning a new craft!

However, I took the challenge and got right to procrastinating in regards to this afghan! Finally, approximately a year after I had received the order, I began making the afghan. I figured I would crochet a basic black afghan and then crochet the other pieces and sew them on.

I had the blanket, edging and all, complete. And then I put the project aside...for another year.

Eventually, I downloaded a spaceship pattern (after extensive searching) and gave it my best attempt. It was an utter failure. The afghan went back into the closet and I procrastinated on it some more.

A few weeks ago, I was determined to tackle this afghan and get it right. After all, it had been over TWO YEARS since the afghan was ordered! (Thankfully, Ozzie's Dad is an awesome individual and has become a good friend!) So, I sat down and I got to work.

Although the color scheme changed from orange/blue to orange/black, it turned out pretty darn well, if I do say so myself!

Note: this afghan is actually square, but I was trying to photograph it while my daughter kept running back and forth over it! Therefore, it looks a bit distorted!

But don't take my word for it! Check out Ozzie and his way cool afghan!! (I mean, the kid has only been waiting half his life for it!)

How adorable is he??

You can learn all about Ozzie and his family on their blog Down With Oz and on their other blog, Down Town Ds!

An Afghan For Josie V.

2012-02-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

Remember the handsome Mr. Jake with his afghan?

Well, this is the afghan I made for his sister, Josie!

And this? This is the unbelievably adorable Miss Josie with her afghan!

You can read all about Josie, her brother Jake and the rest of the family on their blog, Van Nice Family Journey!

An Afghan For Ryleigh S.

2012-01-31T11:16:00.000-08:00

Look at this adorable little girl! This is Miss Ryleigh and her afghan! As you can see, they are getting well acquainted!

When I ship off an afghan, I typically (unless I completely forget) include a couple of business cards and a postcard I had made for the T21 Traveling Afghan Project. The postcard has a photo of Emmalee (my daughter) holding up the afghan.

Miss Ryleigh has decided she really likes Em and "talks" to her! How stinkin' adorable is that?!?!

Just another example of the ties that bind, across the miles!

Enjoy, Miss Ryleigh!

Then and Now: Ashlyn M.

2012-01-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

Do you remember sweet Miss Ashlyn from this post?

This was Ashlyn back in September of 2009 when she was battling cancer!

Well, you know what?? This is Ashlyn now! Look how amazing she looks!!

As you can see, she still loves her afghan! You can follow Miss Ashlyn on her very own Facebook page!

An Afghan For Chloe W.

2012-01-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is adorable Chloe with her afghan!

An Afghan for Jake V.

2012-01-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

This is Jake's afghan:

This is Jake WITH his afghan!

How cute are they??

You can read all about Jake and his family on their blog, Van Nice Family Journey!

How cute is he?!?

Persephone's Family

2012-01-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

Little Miss Perse has been signed up for the Traveling Afghan for two and a half years! She signed up very shortly after the project was started! Therefore, it is with great joy I share these photos of her loving it up!

Opening the Afghan

Reading the journal with her Dad!

Taking the Afghan to School!

One GORGEOUS Persephone!

Thank you for taking such good care of the afghan, Persephone!

Thomas' Family

2011-11-30T07:56:00.000-08:00

How adorable is this little guy!?!

Thomas had a great time with the afghan! I think the photos speak for themselves!

An Afghan For Gabby H

2011-11-29T06:27:00.000-08:00

Somehow, I missed adding photos of this beauty with her afghan, even though she was one of the first little kiddos to receive one!

This is Miss Gabby and afghan!

You can learn more about Gabby and her family on their blog, The Phamily Blog!

Keziah's Family

2011-11-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

Keziah had a blast with the afghan! Here's what her mom had to say!

Kizzy, who is 15, wrote in the book with the afghan herself. She put in this picture and the following one of herself with her boyfriend Tom at a dinner dance to celebrate his last day at school.

Kizzy attends a mainstream school and enjoys it very much. She loves chocolate, boy bands, short skirts, her handsome brother, Apple Macs, watching DVDs with subtitles and writing out the dialogue, cuddling her mum, dropping her clothes all over the floor, her brilliant inclusive drama group Total Ensemble, dancing and music.

She doesn't like: her mum moaning about her room, being told chocolate cake isn't a healthy breakfast, people "looking" at her, her brother switching channels on the TV and songs in the car all the time, cheese, going to sleep.

Her full name is Keziah Mary Akiko Baxter. She is very proud of the fact that she is a quarter Japanese.

Kizzy is just beautiful! I'm glad she had such a good time with the afghan!

Che's Family

2011-11-21T10:14:00.000-08:00

Che had the afghan, and as you can see, he shared it with one of his very best friends!

Thanks for taking such great care of the afghan, Che!

Keeley's Family

2011-11-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

Five year old Keeley had a grand old time with the afghan!

Her mom said they felt so privileged to be part of this fantastic project! As you can see, Keeley loves the afghan! It was lovely and cuddly and perfect for a little lie down with her favorite hand puppets!

Thanks for taking such great care of the afghan, Keeley!

An Afghan For Grace H.

2011-06-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

While I don't have photos of Miss Grace with her afghan, here is the one she received!

Rocky's Family

2011-06-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

The ever adorable Rocky had the afghan for his week! And what a week it was!

Ethan's Family

2011-06-28T13:22:00.001-07:00

Ethan's family has had quite a time with the afghan! According to his mom, the afghan has had many cuddles, kept her babies safe and warm at night, hosted a few doll tea parties, been an amazing peek-a-boo blanket and was shown an incredible amount of love from Ethan and his sister, Georgia!

Georgia was quite enthralled by the afghan and its travels. She took it to school for show and tell and told her friends and teacher all about the afghan! Then she even did a Question and Answer session all about Down syndrome and her little brother!

What an amazing little advocate she is!

As always, the photos speak for themselves!

Ethan, Georgia and Jo, thank you for showing the afghan such a grand time!!

Erin's Family

2011-05-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

Gemma's friend Erin was the next kiddo to get her turn with the afghan!

As you can see, it was love at first site!

Erin also lives in London!

Gemma's Family

2011-04-27T09:19:00.000-07:00

Miss Gemma was one of the first kiddos to sign up for our project, so I'm so excited she finally got her turn!

Per her mum:

Gemma is 5 years old and lives in Mytchett in the Uk. She had a great week looking after the traveling afghan. She took it away on holiday for 5 days to a little holiday village called Pagham. During the day she took it out with her & sat on it whilst we had picnics & at night it kept her warm and snuggly. It has been lovely for Gemma to be part of the travelling afghan!

As you can see, Gemma and the afghan got along wonderfully!

What a beautiful little girl! Thanks for hosting the afghan, Gemma!!

An Afghan For Nathan S

2011-04-06T06:56:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Nathan has received his afghan! This afghan spot was actually auctioned off to help raise money for the adoption of a kiddo with Down syndrome! Nathan's family was the winner and here is the result!

And this adorable little guy is the blankets owner! How stinkin' cute is he??

Another satisfied customer! Ha ha!

Antalya's Family

2011-04-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

Three year old Antalya had a great time with the afghan in London!

You can learn all about Antalya and her family on their blog Down to Life! And check out this post about her time with the afghan!

An Afghan For Mackenzie F.

2011-03-08T07:15:00.000-08:00

Miss Mackenzie is loving up on her very own afghan! As you can see, they made fast friends!

Enjoy your afghan, Mackenzie!

An Afghan For Aiden M.

2011-02-22T09:50:00.000-08:00

This absolutely adorable little cherub is loving on his own afghan! How cute is he! Enjoy your afghan, Aiden!!

An Afghan For Eamon C.

2011-02-08T06:52:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous little Eamon is enjoying his very own afghan! His mom and I made a swap and here is the result! One very happy little boy and his big brother!

An Afghan For Cameron C.

2011-01-18T06:34:00.001-08:00

Mr. Cameron has his own afghan! And as you can see, they're getting along famously!

Enjoy that afghan, Cameron!

Melanie Sader

2011-01-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

The Sader family needs help to bring home their daughter, Melanie!

Please visit A Walk In Lily's Garden to put your name in on any (or all??) of the available 18 items, including an Afghan Of Your Very Own in your chosen colors! For every dollar you donate, your name goes into a virtual hat one time on the item of your choice. Winners will be chosen by Random.org.

Please help this family realize the dream of holding their daughter in their arms forever!

To make a flat donation to the family, please visit this page on Reece's Rainbow's website.

Kaley's Family

2010-12-29T10:38:00.000-08:00

The adorable Miss Kaley had the afghan and enjoyed it immensely! How cute is she??

Ella's Family

2010-12-27T07:32:00.000-08:00

Here's another beautiful little Canadian who took her turn with the afghan!

Miss Ella is absolutely adorable and enjoyed having her turn! In the last photo, you can see Miss Macy, from the previous post, handing the afghan off to her buddy, Ella!

You can read all about Ella and her family on their blog, One Beautiful Life! And check out the following posts to see more photos of the afghan's visit: Guess What Came Today, Perspective and Pneumonia.

Macy's Family

2010-12-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

The afghan is still bouncing its way around Canada and Miss Macy was next on the list!

How absolutely adorable is she?? You can learn more about Macy and her family on their blog, Falling In Love! (And check out this post about the Traveling Afghan!)

Castian's Family

2010-12-22T07:53:00.000-08:00

Hunter, our buddy from the previous post, got to hand deliver the afghan to his buddy Castian! (Have I mentioned how much I LOVE seeing these hand off photos?!?!)

That's two cute Canadian boys, folks!

Here are some more photos of Castian's time with the afghan! He even took it to his Down syndrome groups annual dinner and dance around Halloween time!

What a picture perfect visit! You can learn all about Castian and his family on their blog, Our 47 Pieces of Heaven! And check out more of the family's visit with the afghan here!

Hunter's Family

2010-12-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

Mr. Hunter has had his turn with the Traveling Afghan and, as you can see, he enjoyed every moment with it!

You can learn all about Hunter and his family on their blog, Casa De La Tonteria! You can also see more photos here and here!

Down Syndrome Awareness Bracelet

2010-09-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

There is a beautiful little girl out there named Coco. You may remember her from a previous post regarding her very own afghan.

Coco has an older sister named Claire, who took it upon herself to contact a jewelry designer in regards to a Down syndrome awareness bracelet. The designer Sarah Aghili went right to work!

As you can see, the piece she designed is just beautiful!

Fifty percent of the proceeds from this bracelet benefit the Down Syndrome Aim High Resource Center (DSAHRC), the association that Claire and her family are involved with.

This bracelet is only $24.00 and can be ordered directly from Sarah's website!

You can read all about Coco (and her big sister, Claire) on their family blog Coco's Corner!

An Afghan For Josh W.

2010-09-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

Mr. Josh has received his very own afghan! His mom sent him on a scavenger hunt to find where it was before he got to open it! As you can see, it was love at first snuggle!!

Josh's mom wanted an afghan to accompany Josh during his hospital stays! I hope they form a life-long friendship!

This is one happy nine year old!!

Tristan's Family

2010-09-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

The afghan got to spend some time with Mr. Tristan and his family! According to his mom, Kari, he slept with it every night. The afghan also got to cuddle up with with Tristan's family while they read through the journal that is accompanying the afghan on its travels!

Tristan even shared it with his sisters!

That is one well loved afghan!!

You can read all about Tristan and his family on their blog, Justin, Chanelle and Tristan!

An Afghan for LC H.

2010-09-03T08:39:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Pudge has her own afghan and she puts it to daily use with her morning picnic!

She even shares it with her little brother Zippy!

You can learn all about Pudge and Zippy (aka LC and Jace) on their blog, The Adventures of Pudge and Zippy!

Aidan's Family

2010-08-30T08:24:00.000-07:00

The afghan spent some time with the ultra adorable Mr. Aidan in Canada! As you can see, they made fast friends!

I'm loving seeing all our Canadian families!! The afghan will remain in Canada for quite a few more weeks, visiting all our friends up north!

An Afghan For Glenn S.

2010-08-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

Here's Glenn's afghan!

We've Been Plugged!

2010-08-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

I'm used to this project touching the lives of people who know and love someone with Down syndrome. I'm used to the families being appreciative and affected.

What I'm NOT used to is someone who had no previous knowledge of what T21 is being so moved and in awe of the project that they plug it on their own podcast! However, that's just what TMass, of the TMass Chronicles has done!

Approximately two-thirds of the way through Episode Five: Faith & Tolerance, is the segment titled The Unauthorized Plug. In that segment, TMass explains what the project is and what it has taught him. The ENTIRE episode is completely worth a listen!! It touches very close to home on a topic very close to MY home.

There is also a link to our project on the bottom of his blog, The TMass Chronicles. Check it out!

An Afghan For Chelsea B.

2010-08-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

This adorable little girl is Miss Chelsea! Chelsea received her very own afghan and is showing all the love she can!

You can learn all about Chelsea and her family on their blog, Dream Big!

Wysdom's Family

2010-07-30T06:55:00.001-07:00

The afghan is enjoying its stay in Ontario, Canada, as you can see from the following photos of Mr. Wysdom and his sister, Blyss!

The afghan arrived just in time to accompany the family on their vacations, so it is continuing to wrack up the miles!

What two beautiful kids!!

You can learn all about Wysdom and his family on their blog, The Wonder of Wysdom!

An Afghan For Trey F.

2010-07-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Another fundraising afghan was given to the IMDSA (International Down Syndrome Association) and ended up in the hands of the super cute Mr. Trey!

As you can see, he was very quick to become acquainted with his new blanket buddy!

Enjoy your afghan, Trey!

Missy, Trey's mom, wanted to share a bit of his story with you! She writes:

My husband Carl and I had been married for 12 years and had no children. We decided to go ahead and adopt since we really were missing having a child. We started the process in 2006 and inquired on several children only to be turned down over and over.

I then saw Treston in June 2008(He had a different name then) and inquired and received a letter in the mail stating they did not select us. This time I just felt so heartbroken, moreso than with the others. About 2 weeks later I received a call from a caseworker asking if I remembered him which I did of course!

She said that they thought he was a good fit for us but that he had special needs. She went on to say he has mosaic Down syndrome and wanted to know if I was still interested, I said of course! She then started telling me all the things he may or may not be able to do and that I should not get my expectations up too high. I said I still want him I don't care what his limitations are.

We met him in August and by September he was legally placed in our home. In November 2008 we adopted him. He was 23 months old when we adopted him in November. He walked at 22 months, he's been completely potty trained since he was 26 months!! He's very smart and the sweetest child I know. He's been such a blessing and although he has mosaic Down syndrome which most would consider a bad thing, it's what makes him HIM, and we would not change one thing!!!

Updated Video Montage!!

2010-07-28T13:35:00.001-07:00

Here is the updated video of The Traveling Afghan! Every picture I have received from each kiddo who has had the afghan in his/her grasp is included in the video.

This is the basic format, minus any bells and whistles. After paying for premium features for over a year, I have to opt out at this time (hey, we have a baby on the way, every penny counts!) If you are interested in contributing to upgrade our One True Media account, please email me at chandosjoy@gmail.com.

Enjoy! These kiddos are amazing and extraordinary!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

An Afghan For The World Down Syndrome Day Fundraiser

2010-07-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

On occasion, I have been contacted regarding creating an afghan for a group to raise funds for Down syndrome programs and awareness.

Awhile back I was contacted by The Down Syndrome Association of Orange County regarding their fundraiser for World Down Syndrome Day.

Of course, I said yes!

Here is Mr. Jaden, modeling the afghan that was sent to help this organization raise money! What a handsome young man!! Thank you, Jaden!

An Afghan For Julie B.

2010-07-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

Miss Julie contacted me via Facebook and asked if Miss Em and I would like to do an afghan swap. I immediately said yes!!

Not only did Julie make and send Miss Em an afghan, but she sent her a beautiful little baby doll to wrap in it as well! (Picture of that coming soon!) In addition, she made me a pot holder!! I was so excited!

Here is a picture of Julie, as well as one of her and her afghan!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I absolutely love seeing young adults involved in the Traveling Afghan and An Afghan of Their Own projects!

Julie is an amazing young woman and I've greatly enjoyed talking with her via Facebook and I cherish my potholder! It hangs very proudly in my kitchen!

Thank you Julie, from both Em and myself!!

Alexa's Family and Her "T21 Circle of friends"

2010-07-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

Not only has the afghan arrived for time with our THIRD Candadian family, but it went from one family with twins to another! How great is that!?!?

Little Miss Alexa has an extra chromosome, a twin sister AND another sister! Her mom made two posts about the time with the afghan titled, A Magic Blanket: The T21 Traveling Afghan and The "T21 Circle of friends". Please check them out to read all about the family's time with the afghan!

Here is a picture of Alexa AND ten of her friends who also share an extra chromosome! The afghan got some major loving in Canada this last week!!

Miss Alexa

An amazing group photo!

Adam:

Alexa:

Desiree:

Keith:

Mahdi:

Mau:

Mikayla:

Stavros:

Will:

Zander:

Please take a moment to check out Alexa's family's new blog and add it to your list of daily reads!

Hope. Love. Joy. And a little extra!

Nathaniel's Family

2010-07-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

Nathaniel and twin brother, Carter, are our second Canadian family to receive the afghan! You can read all about the brothers on their family blog, Here Comes The Dynamic Duo!

As you can see, the afghan has gotten double the love this week!!

As you know, a journal goes along with the afghan on its journey so each family can leave their mark on the afghan's progress. Nathaniel's dad is quite the artist and left the following comic in the journal!

Check out their post, The best blanky in the world... for more on their visit with the afghan!

An Afghan For World Down Syndrome Day

2010-06-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

Here is Mr. Jadon modeling the afghan I made for the World Down Syndrome Fundraising event in California!

Liam's Family

2010-06-30T06:27:00.000-07:00

The Traveling Afghan has finally crossed international borders!

The adorable Mr. Liam was the first Canadian to hold the afghan for a week and even got to take it along for the momentous occasion of his baptism!

As you can see, the afghan got off on the right foot in Canada!

An Afghan For River L.

2010-06-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

This was a sibling afghan I made for Mister River!

An Afghan For Sophia S.

2010-06-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is Sophia.

Sophia is an orphan with Down syndrome in Eastern Europe and today is her GOTCHA day! She is now the daughter of Jennifer and Hector Sanchez and their adorable three boys. (They blog at Three's a Charm.)

The afghan you see in these photos was given to Sophia's family through their local Down syndrome support group and was made by myself. Each square represents a gift or sentiment from each family. Together, they make a beautiful afghan of love.

I can't even tell you what an honor it is to have played a part in this amazing gift and the start of an entire family's new life. You can read the initial post about the afghan here

Welcome home, Sophia!

*If you are interested in learning more about Down syndrome adoptions in other countries, please visit Reece's Rainbow.

An Afghan For Riley E.

2010-06-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

Adorable Mr. Riley has finally received his afghan!

As you can see, they made fast friends!!

You can check out this post to see more photos of Riley with his afghan and you can learn all about him and his sister, Mickelli (and their parents!) on their blog, Just 2 of a Kind!

Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

2010-06-09T06:46:00.000-07:00

A lot of people ask what they can do for this project. I get numerous emails per week asking how they can pitch in. In one word, YARN! I can never have enough yarn!! If you have some you are looking to get rid of, email me at chandosjoy@gmail.com and I will be happy to provide you with a shipping address! The more yarn I have, the more afghans I can supply to unsuspecting recipients!

This project is about Down syndrome awareness and community ties! My family is participating in another project and would love your support on it!

This year, our area has its very own Down syndrome Awareness Walk, complete with Rachel Coleman from Signing Time! I will also have a booth set up representing The T21 Traveling Afghan Project at the walk, which I am all kinds of excited about!!

If you're interested in helping us raise money for this event, please visit our Team Emmalee page and select one of our team mates to donate to! You can choose from Emmalee's mom, Emmalee's Bubba (aka brother) or Emmalee's Ashley!

We will be having numerous fund-raising events between now and October to raise as much money as possible to support programs, education and awareness in our state!

Go Team Emmalee!! And good luck to ALL the families raising money and awareness for Down syndrome!!

Micah's Family

2010-06-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Mr. Micah is actually a local family, but is currently residing out of state for a few years! Here he is with the afghan, having a blast!

Micah also received some TLC from the afghan during one of his hospital stays!

You can read Micah's account of his visit on this blog post, titled "The Afghan".

I'm happy (and sad) to announce that the afghan is now on its way to another country, after having visited SEVENTEEN US states! But don't worry, it will be back before you know it!

Thanks to Micah and his family for sending it off and showing it a great time!

You can read all about Micah on his family's blog, "A Little Something Extra For Us!"

Max's Family

2010-05-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

After Lilja, the afghan was passed on to her friend, Max!

Max's mom even had photos taken with Max and the afghan! How precious are these?!?!

He is just so cute!! You can check out the following posts on Max's family blog regarding his adventures with the afghan!

It's Our Turn!

Mother's Day

A Few More Pictures

Max Standing and Stepping

We Are Sad To See It Go

You can read all about Max and his family on their blog, Extra Smiles...Extra Giggles...Extra Love

Lilja's Family

2010-05-13T06:36:00.001-07:00

After the afghan came back home to Wisconsin, Emmalee handed it off to her friend Lilja!

Lilja and the afghan!

It's mine! Ha ha ha!!

Lilja handed off the afghan to her friend Max at one of our monthly Down syndrome family play dates!

As you can see, there was one HECK of a turnout at the playgroup!

Top Row: Michelle and Ruby, Debbie and Aaron, Karen and Rex, Tina and Brady, Heather and Clementine, Maria and Hendrik

Bottom Row: Christine and Lilja, Laurie and Teagan, Sara and Max, Melanie and Logan, Tina and Cameron, Erin and Tyler

As you can see, this afghan is getting loved on a GREAT deal!

Emmalee's Family (Round Two!)

2010-05-04T08:23:00.000-07:00

I had a conference to attend this past weekend, so I brought the afghan back home for a bit so it could attend! I have no words for the emotions I felt as I took in every word written by each family in the journal! It's amazing where this afghan has been and how loved it has become!

Here I am at the Circles of Life conference with the afghan! It had just arrived in the mail that day!

Here is our little table we set up so people could see the afghan and get information regarding it!

And here is my new friend, Tammy! She is thirty-three years old and lives in Wisconsin with her mom and dad! She is a VERY proud aunt and I had a great time meeting her and her family at the conference!

Here is Em with the afghan over a year ago! (You can see our first blog post, here!)

And here's one from this year!

Of course, the afghan is all about sharing, so here is Em passing off the afghan to her friend, Lilja! (You can see more pictures on Little Miss E's blog!)

The afghan is going to bum around Wisconsin for a few weeks and then it is off to Texas to jump out of an airplane to support Down syndrome awareness! How cool is that??

Stay tuned for more "cheese state" families!!

An Afghan For Meghan S.

2010-04-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

Back in August, Sonia and I ran a "Win Your Own Afghan" contest and we ended up with two winners! Miss MaKenna received her afghan awhile ago and now her friend, Megan has received her afghan as well!

Miss MaKenna is on the left and Miss Megan is on the right!

How beautiful are they?? Here is the winning post, made by MaKenna's mom on her blog! And here is another post about the afghans! You can learn all about MaKenna's family on their blog, The Idaho Neumanns!

An Afghan For Lily Z.

2010-04-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

One of our local families will be traveling to Eastern Europe to bring home their daughter, Lily!

You can read about their adoption on their blog, A Home For Lily!

Today I dropped the afghan off at one of our group's play dates, so Michelle would have it on hand to take with her when she goes to get her daughter!

I can't wait to see Lily with her afghan!! You can learn all about the entire family on their blog, The Zoromski Chronicles!

If you are interested in making a tax-deductible donation to help Lily's family bring her home, check out their family profile on Reece's Rainbow! Please be sure to include "Zoromski Family - Lilya" with your donation!

Sophia's Afghan On The News!!

2010-04-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

The Sanchez family has been a bit delayed in flying out to Eastern Europe to bring home Sophia, but I just read they boarded a plane THIS VERY MORNING!!

Recently, the news did a segment on their pending adoption! If you watch the short clip, you will see the afghan the family's friends had made for them!

This is the first afghan that has actually accompanied a family to bring their child home. What an honor!!

Hurry home, Sophia!!

An Afghan For Marissa H.

2010-04-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

Miss Marissa has her own afghan and, as you can see, her and her beagle are loving it up!

You can read all about Marissa and her family on their blog, To Love Endlessly!

An Afghan For Alayna C.

2010-04-14T07:16:00.000-07:00

Little LC Boom Boom's mom ordered both LC and her friend, Alayna, their very own afghans!

As you can see, Miss Alayna is in love with hers!

You can learn all about the beautiful Miss Alayna and her family on their blog, The Life and Times of Aidan and Alayna!

An Afghan For Sophia S.

2010-04-13T07:04:00.000-07:00

This post is a bit different because the owner of the afghan hasn't quite made it to her home, or her family yet. However, her afghan is firmly in place, waiting for her arrival!

The Sanchez family of Three's A Charm is waiting for their newest member, Sophia to be home in their arms.

Mr. Sheridan's mom, Lisa, organized an afghan to welcome Sophia home. Each family decided on a color for the afghan and I made the afghan in individual squares and then stitched them together to form an afghan!

And here is Sophia's mom opening the afghan:

You can visit this post on Sophia's blog and read why each family chose the color they did for her afghan!

Having gone through an adoption (and a half), we chose silver, because each cloud has a silver lining. Waiting for your child is hard, but having your child with you is worth the wait!

I can't wait to post pictures of Sophia and her afghan and am HONORED to be a part of this family's wonderful journey...through the creation of an afghan!

An Afghan For Joey V.

2010-03-27T05:48:00.000-07:00

Mister Joey received his sea and sand afghan!! This yarn is amazing! It was the first time I worked with a natural yarn! It is 85% wool and 15% mohair. It was donated by Brown Sheep Yarn Company! (The money Joey's family paid for yarn will go towards an afghan for another individual.)

You can read about Joey's afghan on his family blog, here.

Here is Joey with is afghan!

You can read all about Joey on his family's blog, Our Bundle Of Joey!

An Afghan For Matthew H.

2010-03-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Matthew has his very own afghan! You can see his mom's post about it here!

As you can see, it was love at first snuggle!

You can read all about Matthew, his parents and his (soon to be) little sister on their blog, Bill and Ria!

DJ's Family

2010-03-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

Mister DJ recently went in to have some surgical procedures done and look what was right beside him!

What better comfort than an afghan!

DJ is healing well! You can read all about him and his family on their blog, Ohio Patrick Family!

Sarah and Bridget's Families

2010-03-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Because I cannot even begin to write a more touching post than Sarah's mom, Joyce, I am going to snag two entries from Class of 2008 and re-post them here!

From Sarah's mom, Joyce:

by Joyce: For the past several months, we have had a button on our side roll that we titled "Where Fiber Meets Down Syndrome." It takes you to the official blog for the T21 Traveling Afghan created by CJ Field. The idea was simple, yet brilliant. One afghan that would travel with a journal from one family to another to spread awareness for Down syndrome. Sarah was lucky enough to receive the beautiful afghan last week.

When we were given the shipping instructions for the next person on the list, I was elated. We had been following this blog for sometime. The posts are always beautifully written and so full of love. Sometime around the holiday season, Lisa announced that she and her husband had fallen in love with a baby girl on Reece's Rainbow and would be starting the process of adoption. I was so touched by this gesture and curious to know more about this wonderful family. That evening, I spent a few hours going back to the beginning of Bridget's Light. It is a touching story in so many ways.

So with the afghan staying in Ohio, I thought it might be fun to meet in person. Lisa and I arranged a convenient location near Columbus. I truly did not anticipate how magical the meeting would be.

When we first arrived, Bridget's older sister Sara was holding her. Sarah immediately was smitten with young Bridget.

They hugged and embraced with sweet ease.

Sarah got down to hand Bridget the afghan and I watched as the two shared an undeniable common bond. Several chronological years separate the two, yet they were communicating as though they had been together before.

They interacted like two long lost friends. It was pure magic to watch. I looked at Bridget and saw little Sarah sitting there, and I believe Lisa looked at Sarah and saw a grown up Bridget. It simply made my heart swell.

One quick picture of the four of us before we got in the car to drive back to Cleveland. The entire way home Sarah could not stop talking about Bridget. I think she fell in love. It was such a pleasure to meet beautiful Lisa and her two adorable daughters. I can't think of a better way to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day than this.

And here is Sarah's post regarding the visit!

When I went to bed on Saturday, I knew it would be my last night with the afghan.

Today I was meeting Bridget to give it to her.

She is so cute!!

I just love her.

We became pals real quick.

I showed her the journal that is traveling with the afghan.

I think she liked seeing my pictures.

End post.

Bridget's mom also made a post about the exchange on their blog! And stay tuned for Bridget's own post about HER visit with the afghan!

As you can see, Bridget and Sarah truly define the ties that bind! You can keep up with each of them on their blogs, Class of 2008 and Bridget's Light!

An Afghan For Zoey N.

2010-03-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

Miss Zoey from Little Wonders received her afghan! If you aren't familiar with this little one, she has quite the story to tell!

Paraphrased from her family's blog:

Zoey's entrance into this world marked the commencement of a miraculous journey- a journey of challenges and obstacles, a journey of beauty, grace, and hope. She made her entrance with an extra 21st chromosome, and so began her family's walk with Down syndrome. One extra chromosome, a multitude of blessings, trials, and lessons.

Her frail body arrived with AV Canal Complete and Transient Myeloproliferative Disorder, a transient form of leukemia, necessitating a lengthy stay in Children's Hospital Los Angeles. It was also determined that Zoey had suffered an in-utero stroke.

Despite these initial trials, Zoey flaunted her feisty spirit and persisted on to complete a successful heart repair surgery. In February 2008, Zoey was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms, a catastrophic seizure disorder emanating from her stroke site. After various therapies and treatments, Zoey's seizures finally were brought under control with Topamax, a drug that gave Zoey the upper hand on epilepsy. She is also blessed and lucky to be a candidate for a hemispherectomy if her seizures were ever to return.Strange to call that lucky but it truly is just that: lucky.

In October 2008, Zoey was diagnosed with AML M7, Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, and, in true Zoey fashion,she remains in remission after six rounds of chemotherapy. But to limit Zoey's existence and achievements to a medical timeline or the confines of a genetic condition would be the ultimate disservice to this little fighter girl and God.

Zoey is a testament of God's faithfulness and timing. Zoey is a beacon of light in a shadowy world of hardship. She is an illustration of perfection in her innocence and resiliency. She is a representation of all that is good. She is a daughter and a sister who has been the guide for her family and their faith on a walk into the unknown. She serves as the captain of a ship on uncertain seas. She is an expert teacher on living each day and each moment in the present. Though her strides thus far have already been numerous, she undoubtedly has much more to share with this world.

As you can see, a picture is worth a thousand words!

If you want to learn more about Miss Zoey, or keep up with her, check out her family's blog Little Wonders!

An Afghan For Brooklyn S.

2010-03-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

The beautiful Miss Brooklyn has received her afghan!

Per her mom, Brooklyn loves it! What a beautiful little girl!

Charming!

2010-03-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

I typically don't wear jewelry unless it has significance to me. I received a charm necklace from Addy and Sam in exchange for an afghan and I recently also received a matching charm bracelet! The necklace has two charms, one with Em's name and one with B's. The bracelet has charms with their first and middle names, as well as a charm with Baby J's name and a heart stamp on it.

Em loves to point out each charm and tell me who's name is on it, just as she does with my necklace. I'm all about finding ways to work on her letter and word recognition!

(Keep Addy and Sam in mind for any gift giving needs you may have! Not only do you get a great product, but you help support a business run by one of our own moms!)

Due to Em's interest, I thought a great birthday gift would be a charm bracelet of her very own! I can't believe my "baby" will be six this year!! Thanks to this project, I come across a LOT of links to stores and items in other countries. One of the sites I've found is a great online store called Molly Brown, designer children's jewellery.

I immediately fell in love with their charm bracelet. The charms are colorful and more childlike than I have found at other locations. Plus, it's something Em can add to over the years. I thought now would be a great time to start something meaningful she can collect and add to.

Do you have any collections or meaningful rituals you engage in with your child? How do you feel it has helped his or her development?

A New Series!

2010-03-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

Since this blog gets a bit of traffic (presumably) from new parents or newly diagnosed parents of Down syndrome, I wanted to start a new series on the blog about general information pertaining to our kiddos. This will also provide some "filler" information when we are waiting on pictures of the Traveling afghan or an afghan of their own!

With summer around the corner, one struggle I have with Em is SHOES. Being a flip flop addict myself, Em wants to wear them so badly, but I just don't feel safe with her wearing them. She still stumbles and trips over her feet quite a bit in them.

Having Down syndrome, it's hard to just run off to your local store and pick up any old pair of shoes. Kids with Down syndrome tend to have chubbier feet and need wider width shoes. In order to determine what size she is, I use this guide on finding your child's foot measure. They even have videos that were a huge help!

Wide width or not, I don't think one should have to sacrifice fashion for function. I typically find shoes that fit Em, but are less than adorable, or shoes that are adorable, but less than comfortable for her. I did find a site with adorable girls sandals that have a wide range of styles, colors and (most importantly) FIT!

For the most part, our kids are more typical than not. However, clothing and shoe fittings can be a bit exhausting when you're trying to balance an odd fit.

What struggles/solutions have you experience or found in regards to dressing your child?

Sarah's Family

2010-03-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Sarah and her mom, Joyce, keep a blog entitled Class of 2008. I love following Sarah (a 2008 high school graduate) on her life journey! I will post some of the pictures of Sarah with the Traveling Afghan and link the numerous blog posts her and her mom have made as well!

Upon arrival, Sarah opened up the afghan and took a look at the journal that accompanies the afghan on its travels!

Then, the afghan joined Sarah at music therapy! (You have to click on the link to Sarah's blog to hear about her session with her teacher, Bonnie!)

After a strange night for Sarah and Joyce, the afghan became quite the symbol of comfort for them both! (Again, go read their post!)

Sarah also took the afghan to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and took some great photos and a video!! (You'll have to visit their blog to see it, since I have no idea how to put it here!)

Their next stop? The memorial for Cleveland firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

And one of Sarah and the afghan in front of a gorgeous view in Cleveland!

Please take a few moments to visit Class of 2008 and learn all about Sarah and her family! She is certainly one remarkable young woman!

Sarah,

Thank you so much for taking such great care of the afghan and taking it to so many places! I am honored to have you as a member of this project!!

An Afghan For Lilly B

2010-03-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

I don't have photos of Miss Lilly WITH her afghan, but here is the one that was sent to her!

Ben's Family

2010-03-10T14:34:00.001-08:00

Look at this absolutely adorable little man!

Mr. Ben took his time with the afghan in Ohio and, as you can see, they made fast friends!!

An Afghan For Konner S.

2010-03-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

Adorable Mister Konner has received his afghan! As you can see, he is quite in love with it!

What a cutie!! I hope Konner enjoys his afghan for years to come!

Spread The Word To End The Word!!

2010-03-03T13:10:00.000-08:00

Today, March 3, 2010, is National End the R-Word Day, a time for us to stop and reflect on how our own speech affects those around us. Please take some time today to join the over 80,000 individuals who have pledged to eliminate the r-word from their everyday conversations. You can take the pledge at R-Word.Org!

Spread The Word to End The Word!!

An Afghan For Isaac W.

2010-03-02T12:26:00.001-08:00

I frequently cruise the web, looking for articles on individuals with Down syndrome and their families. On one such day, I came across an article about Isaac Watson on the Einstein Syndrome website. The article explained how Isaac became a member of his family and announced their loss when Isaac went to meet Jesus.

I immediately contacted the family and offered to send them a memorial afghan. Barbara, Isaac's mother, accepted my offer. Her goal is to share the afghan with a new member of the Down syndrome community when the time presents itself. For now, they are simply holding onto a piece of love from afar.

A few days ago, his family celebrated his ninth birthday, the first since they lost Isaac. His mother sent me the following pictures with the afghan.

This family has an amazing faith in God. I admire their strength and dedication, both in Isaac's life and in his passing.

I hope the afghan brings them a bit of peace, as well as the family which receives it from them.

An Afghan For Amelia B.

2010-03-02T12:25:00.001-08:00

If you read blogs, chances are you are familiar with Gina and her girls over at Mom Blog! I "met" Gina several years ago when I was gathering information regarding adopting a child with Down syndrome. Gina was ready, willing and able to fill me in on the pros, cons and everything in between.

Over the years, I have watched her beautiful little girls grow and blossom! Her is Miss Amelia with her very own afghan!

You can check out Gina's post here, and learn all about Miss Amelia and her family on Mom Blog!

One Year Anniversary!

2010-03-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

Today is the first anniversary of The T21 Traveling Afghan Project! To celebrate, I'd like to share some facts and information!

In the past year, the traveling afghan has visited:

Nine states and twenty-seven families:
Alaska- Buddy Walk
California - Sheridan, John Michael, Joaquin, Gabby, Joey
Iowa - Mayson, Hope, Nichole, Ashlie
Kansas - LC
New Hampshire - Emily
North Carolina - Marissa
Ohio - Delphine, Leightyn, Dorothy, DJ, Violette, Joylynn and Melvin
South Carolina - Patrick, Eian, Koby, Lilly, Wil
Virginia - Landon
Wisconsin - Emmalee

It has attended a number of Buddy Walks and The Buddy Cruise (where it was photographed with Emily Perl Kingsley!) It has been in the local newspaper.

We currently have the following number of families waiting in fourteen countries:
United States - 312
Asia - 1
Australia - 7
Belgium- 1
Canada - 13
India - 1
Mexico- 2
New Zealand -2
South America -1
United Kingdom- 11
Germany - 12
Puerto Rico - 1
Sweden - 3
Switzerland-1
The Netherlands- 1

That's a total of 369 families awaiting the arrival of the afghan. If we can stick to one week per family, the afghan will be traveling another 7 years.

Our participants range in age from newborn through the age of 42.

I've been asked what goals I would like to see reached for 2010.

First and foremost, I would like to see the afghan hit twice as many families as it did in the first year. There was a great deal of additional travel time during 2009 in order to hit a number of events all over the country. I'd like to see us hit twice as many families this year.

I'd like to get more families signed up in the states and countries where we only have a few participants.

I'd like to get some more "star power" involved What stars are touched by Down syndrome?
Sarah Palin (son-Trig)
John C. McGinley (son-Max)
Chris Burke (self advocate)
Sujeet Desai (self advocate)
Pete Sessions (Congresman from Texas, son).
Gene Stallings (former Alabama footbal coach, son)
Roy Rogers and Dale Evans (daughter, passed away at two years old)
Albert Pujols (baseball player, step-daughter)
George Will (writer, son)
Eva Longoria (actress, sister)
Julie Newmar (acress, son)
Jamie Foxx (actor, sister)

Personally, I wouldn't mind being on Ellen. My friend Ben, who is 18 years old and has Down syndrome, has a dream of dancing with Ellen on stage. I would like to meet Ben, on Ellen, and hand him the Traveling Afghan.

As for the Afghan Of Their Own project, here are some stats on that!

I was asked how long it takes to make one of the afghans and how much yarn it takes. I have whipped up an entire afghan in less than twenty-four hours more than once. Typically I complete one afghan every three days. In a week's time, I usually have two to three complete.

Each afghan takes six to seven skeins of yarn, which is approximately thirty-five to forty ounces.

The Brown Sheep Company in Nebraska recently donated enough yarn to complete four or five afghans. Their yarn is amazing (85% wool and 15% mohair).

The most requested colors? Pink and purple.

In the last year, there have been 57 afghans made for individuals with Down syndrome (and three afghans made for friends or family members of an individual with Down syndrome), residing in the following locations:

Alabama: Kaden

California: Nicholas, Joaquin, John Michael, Gabby, Sheridan, Nicholas, Joey and Zoey

Colorado: Jayna

Connecticut: Sophia

Georgia: Pierce: Rest in Peace, Sweet Boy

Idaho: MaKenna and Megan

Illinois: Benjamin , Avah and Gabby

Indiana: Delphine and Isaac

Iowa: Mayson, Faith, Jake and Josie

Kansas: LC and Alayna

Michigan: Ashlynn, Logan, Amber and Konner

Missouri: Matthew

Montana: Avery

Nebraska: Elliot

New York: Gabriella, Coco Rose and Tyler

North Carolina: Marissa

Ohio: Brooklyn and Leightyn

Pennsylvania: Amelia

Texas: Sydney and Baby Girl C

Utah: Rhett , Jaxson and Lily

Washington: Ella Grace

Wisconsin: Matthew

Australia: Hannah and Amarli

England: Gemma

Germany: Benjamin and Mia

And Julie, who I don't have an address for, as of yet!

The state with the most afghans? California. They have NINE afghans of their own!

There are twelve afghans in the queue for 2010.

As a goal, I'd like to see each state become home to an afghan of their own.

I am also making a personal goal to get the completed afghans in the mail on a weekly basis. I am horrible at getting to the post office!

I am often asked what inspired me to begin this project. I wish I could give some big, profound reason, but it simply came down to an idea. A simple idea to send one handmade afghan from one online blogger friend to another in our Down syndrome community. From the moment I began considering adopting a child with Down syndrome, this online community has been amazing. I will never forget Gina sending me the first "bible" on raising a child with Ds. I devoured it cover to cover.

I have met some amazing people. I have made significant friendships. I have found our second family. This afghan is just a link in it all.

I am very excited to see what the second year of the T21 Traveling Afghan Project has to hold!!

Here are some other posts on the One Year Anniversary of our project! Check them out!
An Afghan Of Her Own (Sophia)
The Afghan Arrives (Amelia)
Just 2 of a Kind (Riley)
Happy Anniversary (Bibliomama)

An Afghan For Sophia A.

2010-02-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Miss Sophia has received her very own afghan!

As you can see, it couldn't be more loved!!

Joylynn's Family

2010-02-22T13:35:00.001-08:00

Miss Joylynn and her family have had their time with the afghan in Ohio!

Joylynn will turne fifteen on March 15th. Her younger sister, Rebekah is thirteen and also enjoyed being a part of so many other T21 families all across the United States! The afghan was also shared with Joylynn's Down syndrome teen club!

As you can see, a good time was had by all!!

Many thanks to all our Ohio families who are keeping the afghan on the move! You guys are amazing!!

Violette's Family

2010-02-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

Miss Violette recently received the afghan from her buddy, Little Leightyn Lovebug!

Here they are, sharing the afghan experience!

And here are some photos of Miss Violette and her family, enjoying the afghan!

You can read all about Violette and her family on their blog, Yo Mamma Mamma!

Buddy Cruise 2009

2010-02-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

This past summer the traveling afghan got to go aboard the Buddy Cruise!

From their website:

Buddy Cruise Inc. is a not for profit organization serving families and friends of individuals with Down syndrome on a national level. It is our purpose to provide education and promote public awareness of Down syndrome by arranging and conducting special events, namely cruises. These events will be a forum for prominent educational speakers addressing a wide range of Down syndrome and disability related topics. We encourage self-advocate sessions. Buddy Cruise, ideally, will set sail each October, National Down syndrome awareness month, to honor those who are touched by Down syndrome.

Their mission is to provide educational opportunities and resources for families, while promoting awareness, acceptance, inclusion and advancement for individuals with Down syndrome through unique venues.

Here are a few photos of the 2009 event! I am awaiting some more!

Here is Mr. Piers with the afghan:

And the wonderful and talented Emily Perl Kingsley!!

For more information (and to make your reservations for next year) check out the 2010 Buddy Cruise!

An Afghan For Saoirse

2010-02-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

Little Miss Saoirse received an afghan of her own as a gift from Mr. Sheridan. Saoirse's mom, Michelle is an independent physical therapist who works with children in early intervention in parts of Sacramento, California.

Michelle claims some pretty adorable kiddos as patients! Included are Sheridan, Joaquin and Joey! In addition, she has worked with many children who have Down syndrome and other disabilities (e.g. cerebral palsy, etc).

According to Sheridan's mom, she is amazing! Not only her skills as a Physical Therapist, but the children literally love her...as do some of their parents! Michelle also teaches the graduate pediatric PT course at the local university and in the past has held mock clinics where she invites the families she works with to participate in order for students to learn first-hand what it's like to work with infants, young children and their families.

Saoirse is their first child and Michelle had a wonderful home birth!

I'm hoping both Michelle and Saoirse enjoy their very own afghan!

An Afghan For Nicholas W.

2010-02-05T17:45:00.000-08:00

Mr. Nicholas received his very own afghan! As you can see, he is hard at work, covered in the threads that bind!

An Afghan For MaKenna N.

2010-01-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

Miss MaKenna in Idaho was the winner of the "Win Your Own Afghan Contest" because of this entry, which was just beautiful!

You can read about the arrival of the afghan on their blog entry, "Thank you CJ for the afghan!"

Here are pictures of Miss MaKenna and big brother Zane enjoying the afghan! If you are friends with MaKenna's mom, Maria, on Facebook, she's posted some great videos! I have actually gotten to see a kiddo open an afghan as if I was right there! Thanks, Maria!!

To learn more about Miss MaKenna and her family, visit their blog, The Idaho Newmanns!

An Afghan For Leightyn T.

2010-01-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Here is Miss Leightyn's afghan!

We're still waiting for photos of her with it!

Leightyn's Family

2010-01-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

The afghan took a trip out to see Ms. Leightyn Love Bug in Ohio!

You can read her family's account of the visit on their blog posts Lazy Wednesday, Fun In The Snow and Afghan Goes To Playgroup!

Here are some pictures of the afghan on its adventures with Mis. Leightyn!

You can read all about Leightyn and her family on their blog, Little Leightyn Love Bug!

An Afghan for Gabby G.

2010-01-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

Here is Gabby's afghan! I'm just waiting on photos of her WITH her afghan!

Making Its Way

2010-01-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

I may not be great at math, but at the current rate, the afghan will be traveling for a good five years. I have not decided whether I will cut the journey off at this point or continue it. This project has a way of taking things in its own direction on its own time.

For now, the afghan is headed from North Carolina to Ohio. It will bum around Ohio for a few weeks and then head to Maryland, where we have four families signed up. At that point, I will likely be sending it over to Germany for the next few months.

I know everyone is anxious to get it and I promise it will make its way to each and every family who wants their turn with the afghan, it's just going to take some time. A lot of time!

I am cranking out afghans as quickly as I can. I have five sitting on my kitchen table, waiting to be mailed off. I have one in my car, already boxed up and addressed. I just have to make it to the post office to send them all on their way.

My goal is to reach fifty by the time March rolls around. March 1, 2010 is the one year anniversary of the beginning of The T21 Traveling Afghan Project. One entire year. I am simply amazed!

I am excited to see what the next year holds in store for our own project.

I get a lot of comments about how amazing the project is and how many people it has touched.

I want to know more. Please leave me a comment or send me an email (thet21travelingafghanproject@gmail.com or chandosjoy@gmail.com) letting me know WHY you think this project is significant or HOW it touched you or your family.

I want to hear from you!

Mosaic Down Syndrome

2009-12-30T11:39:00.000-08:00

One of the things (among many) that I love about this project is the people I "meet" through it.

One of those people is Casey. Casey has been a contact of mine for quite awhile on Facebook. Only recently, did I become aware that Casey has Mosaic Down Syndrome. I asked him to write a piece for our website and he happily agreed!

This man amazes me. He does so much in regards to advocating for individuals with Down syndrome. He is a father, a husband and an amazing human being!

But don't take my word for it!

Mosaic Down Syndrome

Hello Everyone. My name is Casey Morton. And I have a form of empathy that has a foundation in relation to your self, and your children. On a level, I hope to help gain hope, and look to the future with wide eyes, and a hopefully an honest reassurance that can bring something for each person reading on. I am 29, I am a father of two, and my youngest is 2 yrs of age and his older brother is 8yrs [with a form of autism]. And I myself have something that is called Mosaic Down Syndrome. I’m turning 30 by new years eve, and am also on the Board of Directors at IMDSA (International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association) as also its Newsletter editor.

I like to think, I have accomplished a good amount of things. Yet, I was a young man and knew the feeling of my diagnosis very well; Mosaic Down Syndrome as both a curse, and a blessing. Feeling very abnormal, and not to sure if I was normal. Relating to mythological beings on the movie screen, because of how detached I felt growing up with family and the people around me. My comfort was at home usually by my self, in my room or in front of the television, or listening to music daydreaming. Feeling isolated and agoraphobic; with frustration on everything outside my front door. See when I was inside my room, home, or wherever I felt normal, when I was outside felt I could I feel fingers pointing and the staring. Now, I did have a few friends, yet could never fully relate. “Should I tell them?” –Or- “would they still let me hang-out if they knew?”

Later on for me, it was the birth of my son that really got some real sense knocked into me. With his brother, and mother I now have a loving family! I completely adore them all and would do anything for. We are just like any family, just like you. We go on daily, and work things out as everyone else does. And, I never feel that I’m above, or behind the pack… I’m here to simply help, as a friend.

Casey Morton

"Having Down syndrome is like being born normal. I am just like you and you are just like me. We are all born in different ways, that is the way I can describe it. I have a normal life."
~ Chris Burke

With A Very Saddened Heart

2009-12-23T10:07:00.000-08:00

This isn't one of the posts I like to make. As a matter of fact, I wish I wasn't making this post at all.

Awhile back, I was contacted by someone who wanted to gift an afghan to Mr. Pierce. He was fighting his second battle with leukemia.

Pierce lost his battle on December 18th and will be put to rest the day after Christmas.

I want to extend all my thoughts and prayers to Pierce's family over their loss.

I am so, so sorry. There are no words to heal the pain you are experiencing.

Rest in peace, Pierce.

Marissa's Family

2009-12-23T08:25:00.000-08:00

The adorable Miss Marissa from To Love Endlessly has had her turn with the Traveling Afghan! She had taken it on a big trip with her and cuddled up under it's warmth while enjoying some of the holiday's festivities!

Here are a few pictures of her with the Traveling Afghan!

You can read all about Marissa and her family on their blog, To Love Endlessly!

An Afghan For Delphine C.

2009-12-21T12:39:00.000-08:00

Miss Delphine got a Special Delivery in the form of her very own afghan! Since her mom, Melissa, is a knitting expert, I was a bit nervous at sending off a piece of my own work, but it was received with rave reviews! (I'm sure the fortieth one is much better constructed than my first few, but all are holding up at this point!)

Delphine seemed to have a blast with her new afghan! You can see her mom's post on their family blog (linked above.) But here are some pictures from the blog!

Big brother helps her open it up!

One very tired little girl!

You can learn all about Miss Delphine and her family on their blog, Banana Migraine!

An Afghan For Lily S

2009-12-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

I have to say that I absolutely adore Lily. A lot of people like to oooh and aaah over the chromosomally enhanced babies and toddlers in our community and the older kids may get over-looked now and then.

Lily isn't one to be overlooked! The pictures on her blog, Lily's Life is Great, is just that, GREAT!

She is full of spunk and personality.

I was honored to make her an afghan of her own (just as I'm honored for send one for each and every child I'm able!) Her mom posted some photos of Lily with her afghan in this post, Cool Things That Come In The Mail!

Here is Lily, with her very own afghan!

You can read all about Miss Lily on her blog Lily's Life Is Great!

In The Local Paper

2009-12-15T06:39:00.000-08:00

Next up?!?! Ellen?!?!

I finally managed to get The T21 Traveling Afghan Project in the paper! Woo hoo!!

Appleton mom CJ Field's crocheted afghans comfort families with Down syndrome

APPLETON - Sometimes, when Appleton mom CJ Field is crocheting afghans, her 5-year-old daughter Emmalee gets out her own crochet hook and ball of yarn.

Like many children her age, Emmalee, who lives with Down syndrome, tries to do what her mom does.

These days, crocheting and boxing up afghans for other families with children who live with Down syndrome takes up much of Field's free time. Field, a nanny, creates afghans as an outgrowth of the T21 Traveling Afghan Project, an effort she began in March.

C.J. Field crochets an afghan Friday in her Appleton home. She founded a project called The T21 Traveling Afghan Project, in which an afghan travels throughout the United States and overseas from family to family with a member who lives with Down syndrome. Field has organized a fundraiser at Harmony Cafe in Appleton. (Post-Crescent photo by Sharon Cekada)

One afghan is traveling the country and overseas, visiting family after family. The families take photos with the afghan for the project's Web site, which also displays pictures of children with their individual afghans.

"Afghans represent security and safety and warmth and comfort," Field said late last week. "It's essentially like sending a hug. Emmalee helps me pack up the afghans and send them off. Every time she picks out colors and I make her one, she wants to shove it in a box."

Field started the project to further unite an online community of bloggers that gains strength in sharing similar family experiences. That project and community are inspiring her to hold an offline awareness-raiser and benefit Wednesday for an international Down syndrome orphan ministry.

The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at Harmony Cafe, 233 E. College Ave. A suggested donation at the door is $5.

It supports the work of Reece's Rainbow, a Maryland-based adoption agency that finds homes for children with Down syndrome and other special needs. The event is Field's way to rally others around the agency's fourth annual Christmas Angel Tree Project.

"I think it's a really good push for awareness," said Michelle Zoromski of Combined Locks, who is adopting a 5-year-old girl with Down syndrome from Eastern Europe through the agency. "Other families would love to bring children home and they don't have resources or support to do that."

Andrea Roberts, the agency's executive director, said this season volunteers such as Field are raising funds for a specific child awaiting adoption. The agency's goal is for each volunteer to raise at least $1,000 for the child's adoption fund.

Money from donations, a silent auction and sales of contributed afghans Wednesday will funnel into the fund for "Melissa," an almost 4-year-old girl from Eastern Europe.

Field, whose daughter was 15 months old when she adopted her through Florida's foster care system, said she hopes the event might bring the child who is waiting overseas one step closer to home and family.

Emmmalee Field, now 5, holds an afghan her mother crocheted for the T21 Traveling Afghan Project.

"Once a family is matched for Melissa, I will be making Melissa an afghan of her own," Field said.

Kara Patterson: 920-993-1000, ext. 215, or kpatterson@postcrescent.com

An Afghan For Avah M.

2009-12-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

While the majority of the afghans I make are for children with Down syndrome, once in awhile I will get a request for what I like to call a "sibling afghan". I make these in a different pattern, but with the same amount of love and dedication!

A former co-worker asked me to make one for Miss Avah's second birthday and I was happy to do so!

Here is the newly two Avah and her afghan!

I will be available to make more sibling afghans sometime next year, once I get the current ones in the queue made and sent off.

I am currently waiting to hear back from a number of families who have received their afghans so I can post the pictures!

To date, there have been 38 afghans made for children with Down syndrome (including the traveling afghan) and two sibling afghans!

And I have quite a few more to get done, so off I go!! I hope everyone is enjoying their holiday season!

In The Spotlight!

2009-12-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

Down Syndrome Dot Com has profiled our project on their website! Please go check out the article posted there about the T21 Traveling Afghan Project!

A Community Wrapped in an Afghan

Also, please check out Jasmine's new project on her blog Windmills and Tulips called T21 Abilities! This is a great way to link our blogs and help one another celebrate what our kids CAN do!

Down Syndrome Dot Com

2009-11-23T12:53:00.001-08:00

One of the reasons I love this project is because it gives me the opportunity to come in contact with other organizations benefiting the Down syndrome community.

One such site is Down Syndrome Dot Com.

This site is a place for people touched by Down syndrome to start their own blogs for free, to network, share, brag, pictures, etc.

I am a member, but have not had a chance to be very active on the site. However, they have one heck of a community going there and I encourage you to check it out!

LC Boom Boom!

2009-11-19T09:23:00.000-08:00

Little LC Boom Boom recently had the traveling afghan in her grasp and got to take it to some of her favorite spots. She also got to share it with her buddy, Alayna!

They were absolutely tickled to have it with them and loved reading about its adventures so far in the accompanying journal.

Here are some of the pictures LC's Mom sent me!

You can learn all about LC on her blog, Little LC Boom Boom!

String Ring Raffle Winners!

2009-11-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

First, a HUGE thank you to all the people who purchased rings. Had you not, then we would have none to give away!!

Here are those of you who made it possible to have this fundraiser!

Heidi C. from the UK
Gina M.
Lily's Life is Great! (6)
Coco's Corner (3)
Somewhere Over The Rainbow (2)
Hapa Girl, Hapa Family
Genetically Enhanced (2)
Tris A Charm (2)
Kathleen R. (2)
Little Wonders (6)

That's a total of twenty-six rings sold, which gives us six rings to raffle off, in addition to the one donated to us by The String Ring company!

Here are the people that bid:
Jan S.: 10 bids
Patricia C.: 9 bids
Jessica B.: 15 bids
Holly C.: 5 bids
Amanda W.: 10 bids
Life Just Is (Ash): 20 bids
Pam A. Buddy Cruise): 20 bids
Little Wonders: 20 bids
Your Special Needs Resource Directory (Anara M.): 3 bids
Genetically Enhanced: 5 bids
The Flege Farm: 10 bids
Somewhere Over The Rainbow: 5 bids

Here's how we did it!

1. I wrote down everyone's name and assigned them a number. I also wrote down how many bids they paid for.

2. I wrote down everyone's assigned number the amount of times they bid and cut out all the numbers.

3. I put all the numbers in a basket and shook them up REAL good!

4. I had my assistant pull out five numbers.

And wah-lah! We have five winners!

Here are our winners!!

Pam A. Buddy Cruise):Won TWO!
Little Wonders
Amanda W.
Life Just Is (Ash)
The Flege Farm

If, by chance, I left out anyone (in terms of orders OR bids) let me know IMMEDIATELY and I will fix it!) I don't THINK I did, but I'm not the most organized woman in the world!

In all, we've raised $132.00 for Melissa!

If anyone has any suggestions for another online fund raiser, let me know!

Otherwise, I am still looking for donations for Melissa (which can be made in the sidebar) as well as sponsors and silent auction items for the big fund raiser in mid-December in Appleton, Wisconsin!

Please feel free to contact me with any suggestions, donations or questions!!
thet21travelingafghanproject@gmail.com