Just under a year.
That's how long it took for Bridget Thimsen to crochet over 350 toques, slippers and Afghan scarves. She's planning on donating every single one to the Estevan Community Hamper and Angel Tree this Christmas.
"I'm supporting the Angel Tree because I feel they need some warm clothes for the winter and something to cuddle up with."
Her project started around Christmas time last year to help her combat her bulimia. Thimsen has been battling the eating disorder for over six years, and she needed to keep her hands busy.
"I did this to help myself and to help others. I struggle with bulimia. Just before Christmas last year, the bulimia was trying to kick me in the ass and I didn't want to act on it because I am six years clean coming this December 31st. So I decided to make toques. My toques ended up with some slippers and some Afghans and I decided to donate all these items to the Angel tree this Christmas," Thimsen added.
Between work and her various commitments in the community, she finds the time to crochet each piece whenever she has downtime. She even joked that she crochets fast. Originally, she was only planning on making about 100, but Bridget said she just kept on going. Thimsen adds an extra layer of comfort to every stitch, keeping whoever receives the gift in mind.
"I say a little prayer after I'm done each one or as I'm doing it to give the person peace of mind as they cuddle with the blanket, or keep their toes warm, or keep their head warm."
The crochet pieces will be donated to charity soon and volunteers will be the ones handing out each piece this Christmas season. Overall, she was able to make 332 toques, 14 slippers, and seven Afghan scarves for the Angel Tree.