MizFit’s Halfassed Friday Rhyme. (subtitle: Im emptying the wallet, People, & need your help.)

by

Last days before Christmas.

They busy for you?

It is up in herre

& MizFit’s a Jew!

A few gifts to buy.

as Ive no craft gene.

To give what *I* make?

exceedingly mean.

Ill find time to relax

I have a few plans

of ways to forget

the holiday demands!

(You having guests?

People coming next week?

You hosting a dinner?!

that’s not for the meek!)

This weekend I shall

embrace some mindfluff.

Watch Elf, Fred Claus,

(I know. My life’s rough.)

There’s plenty time later

For reflection & such

New Years is coming.

(Though I dont resolve much.)

That’s it, Peeps. Miz done.

It’s gym time for me.

Stay warm. Have fun.

Ya’ll on Monday Ill see!

Ok people.

Im copying Hangry who, in turn, was emulating Peanutbutter Boy but with a non-foodie twist.

For every comment I receive on this post I shall donate 10 cents to Safeplace, a local domestic violence shelter.

So out yerself.

Delurk.

Share a little somethin’somethin’ & force Ren Man & me to dig deep into our pockets.

(Yes I shall go by total number of comments. we’re all grownups here. if you comment more than once I can kick in the extra cents. if good fortune should smile upon us, and we get over 1000 comments, I may count uniques after that.)

You have until Christmas Eve morning to spend my money so get to it.

Let’s make someone’s New Year a little brighter through our commentversation.

POSTS BY EMAIL

Never miss a post. Enter your email to get my latest posts delivered to your inbox.

Comments

  9. aishchai? that’s this weekend (wink)
    and thanks you guys.

    SERIOUS COMMENT:

    With all the stretched finances, increased alcohol consumption and the pressures of family holidays domestic violence is one crime which, sadly, is guaranteed to spike over the holidays.

    It’s not a lot but every little bit helps and Im still working to find a COMPANY (hello PR Peeps!) to match anything we make.

    FLUFF COMMENT:

    I know some of you shall attempt the napkin trick along with me. please to report back on your results.

  12. Like the sneaky double comment above! TA cruising in at warpspeed. I have nothing but caffeine and sleep deprivation to offer today *rushes back to work*

    TA x

  13. This is my first visit to your site thanks to your comment on Roni’sWeigh about how you are doing this to raise money. I know a woman (relative actually) who has dealt with domestic violence in her life and I had to take part in your comment/fund raising effort. Thank you.

  15. It’s not often I have the opportunity to blather about anything and be virtuous at the same time.

    As long as I’m blathering…I’m not a member of the tribe, but you’d never know it by looking at my holiday decor. Red and green is OK, but I have more of a fondness for Hannukah Blue. As a result, my holiday stuff revolves around snowflake and snowman designs.

    Starts this Sunday, right? Same day as Winter Solstice this year. So, a happy Hannukah and a merry pagan celebration to all this weekend. May your oil never run out.

  17. I know a woman (relative actually) who has dealt with domestic violence in her life and I had to take part in your comment/fund raising effort.

    patty? I got chocked up after reading your comment. some may say it’s because my toddler has been refusing to let me sleep—-I beg to differ.

    THANK YOU FOR STOPPING BY AND SHARING.

    Yep dragonmamma. this weekend. yep dragonmamma I AM CRACKING UP that your movie was returned to me for insufficient postage when the POST OFFICE TOLD ME HOW MUCH TO USE!

    why laughing? because I refuse to get miffed this holiday season!

    Miz, who is loving that, today, she is yammering in her own comments and paying to do so!

  18. Miz– How sweet and selfless are you and the hubby this holiday season!! Thanks for looking out for those less fortunate.

    BTW– crossed the pond!! YAY! Have a great weekend!!

  19. Of course I will comment for a cause- its hard work…but someones gotta do it 😉 Hope you have some great plans this weekend! We have the usual- holiday parties and such 🙂 Excited for a short work week next week hoooray!

  20. I was wondering where that was! I was blaming the post office, which I try not to do since my husband is a letter carrier.

    (You do know about “media rate”, right? DVDs, tapes and books can be sent much cheaper as long as you tell them what’s inside.)

  24. Cool idea. I’ve got nothing clever to contribute to the conversation but at least I contribute this virtual 10 cents to the pot!

  26. bea? anyone? Feel free.

    My plan had been to donate 50 cents or at least a quarter a comment when I averaged how many comments I get—-and then I had a vision of being so lucky that I was deluged with comments and scaled back.

    If I don’t get what I hope—I’ll just jack up the amount per comment 😉

    Gonna total it all up Christmas Eve morning (and hope I’ve got that ‘company’ into match!).

  27. Love the poem. Love your funds idea. As someone who benefitted once from the kindness of volunteers at a domestic violence agency, I thank you. Rock on, my friend.

  30. I love adding my two cents worth and I just love spending someone elses money LOL…. Anyways great cause every little bit helps. My sister lived in domestic violence all of her adult like until she ended her own life. Thanks miz it means so much.

  34. Well I gotta get in on this too. I love hearing these stories of random acts of kindness 🙂

  35. Ok. Worthy cause, good job. Now, because I am me… We have a snow day today. Coming down hard, and there is going to be plenty of domestic drama around here if my sons do not do some serious shoveling of their bedrooms!

    Paper napkins. My inner Martha just died a little… Cooking for the holiday? Crown Roast of Pork. Will not be patronizing the butcher who mangled the beef tenderloin…

    Thank goodness you’re not a goy…Santa would not be grooving on Chia Cookies!!

  36. This is absolutely a great cause Miz. I’m married to a wonderful woman that was battered by her 1st boy friend and it took her years to get out of that relationship. Please add my 10 cents to this effort. Thanks

  37. (*clink of change in the MizFit tzdakah box. SHOSH? You out there? ;))

    Marianne? I love that you’re you.

    And here’s a little known story.

    Once upon a time TinyMizMiz was a goy.
    She baked cookies for girls and boy.
    She longed for a Christmas toy.
    Her parents were filled with pride & joy.

    Then Santa came to try.
    Took one bite & shouted WHY??
    Oh golly gee Oh me OH MY!
    These chia cookies make me cry.

    That’s a poem. From my thumbs to you.
    What made this BIGBIG Miz a Jew.
    Is any of this rhyming true?
    I leave that decision up to YOU.

    what dont I leave up to you? please to send this post on to a friend. I know. Im asking. Help me show a bigbig company here in the ATX that we blog peeps know how to raise money and that they should MATCH US (if they can :)).

  40. LOL, Miz! Well, here’s my ten cents. 😉

    OT: the pinning? Not hard on WordPress. There’s a check-box off to the right before you post that will let you “Pin this to the front page.” On other apps? Not so sure. Try the help section of the app you’re using, maybe? Before WordPress’s was obvious, that’s how I found mine. 😉

  45. Thanks, Miz. You have the true holiday spirit, blue/white or red/green – it makes no difference. We are all brothers/sisters under the skin (we are FAT RELATIVES!!!) and when we help each other we are really helping ourselves.

    Have a Cheerful Channukkah or a Merry Christmas or a Festivus for the Restofus, but for sure, CELEBRATE.

  47. That is funny about the package being returned for more postage, when the PO told you how much to put on. Wow! LOL

    One time I was standing in line at the PO and one of the workers was telling the person in front of me that a package had 20 cents postage due and I piped up and said how come we don’t get money back when we use too much postage. The post office didn’t respond well to that question.

  49. Wow, that’s really nice of you. Back in the day (ie when I was at college) I did some volunteer work for Avalon, the local battered wives shelter… and usually, when I get one of those “free turkey” gift cards from our grocery store for shopping 21 weeks out of 23 and spending at least $40.01 per trip, I donate those as well…

    Good on you, mate!

  50. Hey there, Miz! Thanks for doing some thinking for me. The comment you left motivated me to plan ahead. Even if I do indulge, at least I am aware.

    Cute poem, and love the generosity! I hope it spreads.

  51. Ah how can I resist a request like that? 🙂 Nice work Miz, this is a great idea and a very selfless gesture.

    We just got an email here in work with our totals for the charity donations this year – between all 250 of us employees we have raised €18,000 which will go towards various disadvantaged groups of people, this is one of the rare times I’m so proud to be part of this workforce! 🙂

  53. Sorry that money is just for Christmas this year, not to spread over the whole year.. that wouldn’t really do much… :o)

    Oh I got another 10c in! :o)

  55. Oh yay! I love spending other people’s money. I just wanted to say that your mention of not having a craft gene reminded me of a sad phase I went through in college. I got it in my head to start decorating wreaths. I’m sure I totally sucked at it and I now feel bad for all the recipients of my “crafts”. I have since decided that I don’t have the talent nor the patience to make anything with my hands.

    Now I’m going to go link to this post on my blog.

  56. THANKS YOU GUYS.

    and with regards to the post office—you know I wanna yell at them BUT then Id be damn sure never to get my magazines again.

    and one doesnt mess with Miz and her MIND CANDY for the recumbent bike.

    thanks for the links.

  57. Look at all that popcorn! Mmmm.

    Am trying to stay warm:D

    That’s super that you’re doing the comments thing too! I heart your rhymes.

  61. Leaving to host a holiday party at Victoria’s school today but needed to spend your moo-la first! 🙂

    I am SO NOT READY for the holidays. I need to get in gear!

    Upside of the Guat trip? Lost 4 lbs! 🙂 Tons of work and no snacks! 🙂 And loads of bottled water! 🙂

    Love to the tornado!

  63. restating why (chingching):

    With all the stretched finances, increased alcohol consumption and the pressures of family holidays domestic violence is one crime which, sadly, is guaranteed to spike over the holidays.

    Im so thankful for all I have.

  64. What an awesome way to raise money and awareness of a terrible issue during the holiday season (‘cuz I was clueless about the domestic violence spike during the holidays!).

    Please to donate a shiny new dime on my behalf. 🙂

  66. I love love love your blog because you are living (electronic?) proof that real women with real lives can be in great shape and do it with a sense of humor. I’m trying to get into the fitness blogging thing as a way to get in better shape, and I’m de-lurking because I think this is a great cause. Happy Holidays to the Fit Family.

  68. It snows
    I shovel
    a path to my hovel

    The wind blows
    I shovel
    New path to my hovel.

    So glad for a shovel
    and my safe hovel.

    And donate a rhyme
    So you add my dime

    : – )

  71. i will donate $1 for every pound i should lose
    ($12 at this moment)
    tell FGF where to mail a check to you Miz (i believe you have my e-mail)

    This is a cause I feel VERY strongly about. I have several clients (read: teen girls, usually with babies) and even some close grown up friends of mine who are in DV relationships and are either in denial about it or don’t know how to get out of them.

    Really, I’m serious. Tell me where to send a shiny green check. This comment is now with $12.10

  75. Here’s another 10!

    LOL re: “Hangry”. My husband has a thick French accent and I can never tell if he’s “hungry” or “angry” (and I’m normally really good with accents!)

  76. What a great idea!

    Kara’s second birthday is tomorrow. Mine was last tuesday, Kent’s was the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Busy doesn’t even begin to describe what’s going on over herre.

  80. It’s 6 am
    Hardly thinking straight
    But I think
    Your fundraiser is great!
    THANKS, MIZ!!!
    (*yawn*…off to start the morning madness. Greatful that the biggest drama here is getting Thing 1 to do his homework and getting Thing 2 to leave him alone while he does.)

  87. What a wonderful idea!

    Here’s my $.10 🙂

    Christmas for us is a rather laid back affair. A little eating, a little drinking. And when I say little, I mean a lot.

    And I think that’s a fantastic cause you’re donating to. As someone who’s experienced domestic violence, anything that can make getting out of that situation easier is so necessary. My mum thankfully had my grandparents to turn to, but a lot of people don’t have that.

  91. thanks to all of YOU (& I see my best friend from college up there as well. *waves like a mad woman*) as we’re at 93 and it’s not yet 9a where I am.
    It is all about the Band as, without you, there’d be me rattling around like a lonely dime in an old tin can.

    AND

    Someone here in Austin (not a company. A reader) emailed, asked to be anonymous but is matching what we make here.

    Remember I’m not totaling until chrismas eve morning (gonna figure out how to pin the post) so lets make HER dig deep into her wallet as well.

  92. I’ve missed commenting, Miz. Behind on all things blogosphere. But doing great with the personal training thing!

    But I truly must delurk for such a worthy cause as this 😀

  100. Thanks for the comment on my confidence post! You are so right.. that will be my goal for 2009.. more confidence.. head up and shoulders back! Thanks again!!

  102. What a great idea and a great way to celebrate the season! Wish I could take credit for “raising you with the right values”, but it is all you.
    Love,

    HOW COOL IS MY MOM?!

  103. I’m so proud to be a member of the bumbling band today! Here’s my 10 cents worth….
    …………………………………………….
    …………………………………………….
    ……………………………………………

    🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂

    Well, hell, you get what you pay for!

  106. AH! I knew I liked you for a reason other than your fabulous blog… a) You’re a fellow member of the Tribe and b) you’re charitable!

  110. So, instead of leaving my ‘two cents’ today, it’s ten cents?

    (Did somebody else get to that joke first? I didn’t read every comment.)

    Love today’s poem, Miz! Happy Hanukkah to you and your family!!!

  111. Go Miz Mizfit!
    (Still think ‘hanukkah squash’ might be the way to go…)

    Happy Hanukkah!
    (A little early, but that’s better than late)

  113. Happy holidays one and all. This is a wonderful thing you are doing, Miz — thank you to you and the anonymous matching donor!

  121. thank you thank you.

    again WHY we are doing this:

    With all the stretched finances, increased alcohol consumption and the pressures of family holidays domestic violence is one crime which, sadly, is guaranteed to spike over the holidays.

    and a few of you have emailed me asking about sending me money to donate.

    Keep it in your ‘hoods!

    Drive around Christmas Eve night and do a few random acts of gift giving to those who might be spending their Christmas out of doors this year.

    Find a shelter close to home and send your check that way.

    *thanks so much*

  122. MizFit..I’ve always wanted to say this to you but there was never a really good place for it…. except now..

    You have the best arms I’ve ever seen! I literally think of your biceps when I’m in the gym for inspiration.

    Get me some tickets to THAT gun show!!

  124. Wow – that’s awesome. Thanks for your generosity, and the reminder of how lucky I am to be safe and warm.

  125. #77
    via her site MizFitOnline. For every comment she receives on her blog post, she will donate at least 10 cents per comment to SafePlace, a local shelter where she resides
    ****
    This sounds like YOU reside in a shelter! I don’t think so…I pity the fool who tries to mess with you!

    (I swear I didn’t write this just to make you spend another dime.)

  126. I knew you wouldn’t have any trouble racking up those comments. You have such a good heart. It’s a great cause too. Hope you have a great weekend.

  130. LOL at #131.

    That is really funny.
    not funny that people live in a shelter you know what I mean well FORGET IT 🙂
    here is my 10 cents.

    great idea MizFit!!

  131. Keep it in your ‘hoods!
    Drive around Christmas Eve night and do a few random acts of gift giving to those who might be spending their Christmas out of doors this year.
    Find a shelter close to home and send your check that way.
    *thanks so much*

    I have never felt so honored to know you… and that’s saying a lot. You’ve always impressed me, but never as much as today.

    With the economy going sour and so many important programs being cut (including mental health programs and programs for battered and abused women) more and more people are finding themselves in very dire straights. The numbers of homeless and the need in food pantries is frightening, and for everyone who can’t bring themselves to part with cash for these charities can give those canned goods you got on sale and decided you didn’t want. You can also give at many grocery stores, adding your change to their food pantry bags (something you will hardly notice, but will add up if everyone does it)

    This is also a good time of year to do your “spring” cleaning. Find clothes you don’t wear in good condition, shoes, housewares, and donate it. Several agencies are doing neighborhood pickups at this time of year. For example, in my neighborhood this week Big Brother/ Big Sister will be coming around picking up donations which are to be left out at the mail boxes.

    It’s easy, painless, helps keep your lives (closets and cupboards) organized, and provides a huge blessing to those in need.

    Miz Fit, have you talked to any of your sponsors, BlogHer, or the other blogs you write on about matching funds or supporting challenges like this of their own?

  138. Wow – you are really raking in the comments!!!

    I’m back to make you spend another 10 cents. Hehehehehe

    Such a generous woman, in so many ways.

    Happy Hanukkah, and many blessings on your house.

  139. Here is my 10 cents.

    I wanted to comment again on the the nonmotorized tm post, but..

    I just want to say thank you for taking the time to post a response to my comment. I was surprised and happy.

    And now it is my gym time.. no. .I am lying.. I haven’t done any XMAS shopping and I have to run before the snow hits hard.

    HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

    PS I found LAnce through your site and loved reading someof it.

  140. Oo i like spending other people’s money. Especially when it goes to a good cause. Then I can feel sanctimonious but I haven’t done anything.

  141. ops clarification on my PS…

    Loved reading some of it meaning I didn’t have time to read all the posts. 🙂

  142. I am delurking after almost a year.

    (does that earn me a cue confetti)

    you are amazing and more than that I now realized that I need to do something in my ‘hood as you say.

    THANK YOU MIZFIT

  144. I will send a check too. Send me the address. It won’t be huge and it won’t be per comment but why not ask us to chip in?

  146. Kate (#137) GREAT IDEA about blogher (I mean I dont think they love us fitness peeps like the mommy bloggers or food bloggers but hell, I have a child :)) and I shall email them and see.

    If only I didnt fly by the seat of my Nike trail shorts and preplanned a bit more….

  147. this is a great idea! i found your blog through lynn, and i’m going to post a link to it on my blog in hopes of getting more traffic – not that it looks like you need it :)!

  150. NO way am I going to make it through readnig all these comments! LOL!

    What a great idea! This time of year does bring out the giving spirit, and we’ve helped our local food bank, Heifer International (great cause), and Helen Keller International. Always loved the story of Helen Keller, mostly because we share a birthday.

    Leaving for the holidays tomorrow. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year, Happy Solstice, and anything else I might be forgetting.

  152. Miz,

    You get a whole a lot more comments than I do. So I’ll match your donation for my own local food shelter.

    I live in the poorest region of the bay area (gulp when you read that 2 parents with 2 kids qualify for poverty level at $70,000!) and this year our food banks and homeless shelters are getting less than half what they’ve received in the past. While their clients have doubled.

    So a comment for you, (or more) and a promise for me.

  153. Hey MizFit, I just had a brainstorm … I’m going to do a 15% match of whatever you raise on your blog. I know it isn’t a ton of money, but it’s a little bit more for a GREAT cause.

    Thanks for inspiring me!

    Trixie

  158. I KNOW, Alice. Funny in a way.

    and Im a little thinking I shall up the give to 25 cents per comment but, in my land of delusion (and since Im waiting to total until Christmas Eve morning), I thought (think?) Id get a bazillion comments.

    we’ll see. I reserve the right to up the ante.

  161. Miz,

    Sent notice of this to ALL the editors and powers that be at BlogHer so they are aware of this (helps to be one of the “in” folk). Let’s see how this explodes.

  162. THANK YOU DEB. I sent my little email in as well.

    For some reason it breaks my heart to think that, at this time of celebrating, some women are living in fear and terrified.

    women (AND MEN) helping women.

    people helping people.

  163. For me it’s the children of those women. Those children who need a Christmas and the women just can’t give it to them. I can’t tell you how much food I’ve put in the baskets so these kids will at least get a meal…

  165. That website made it very easy to donate. Though I wish I could have somehow tied it to your contribution but maybe I keep posting comments and you have to donate more and more money, that will somehow tie it all together.

    Maybe a separate post to list the link to the website for this type of donation is in order. Who knows who’s crazy enough to do it in this BB group of yours? Could be lots of folk…
    🙂

  167. yada yada yada contrary to this public blog post (but hey, seven of you still dont know my real name :)) we Jews like to give anonymously.

    So I didnt think to contact safeplace, POD, and let them know about our fundraising attemptendeavor.

    I just sent them an email.

  170. I was just reading an article about our local DV shelter that said basically the same stuff that you said in your comment 127. A tragic confluence, huh?

    This is a remarkable thing to do! Thank you.

  174. Well, tell them to hook my anonymous donation to yours if you want. I don’t know that it matters. But hey, I commented again.
    Yay.

  175. I just bookmarked the spoonflower site. I’m going to go back again when I have more time and design something!
    Hear, hear to the work-life balance article. Totally agree with all of those points.
    Cha-ching for SafePlace!
    Teresa
    RecipeComparison.com

  182. totally NOT ME. it is all YOU.

    Again, without you, there’d be *me* rattling around like a lonely dime in an old tin can.

    speaking of tin cans I wonder if THAT’S FIT would link.

    (Oh day job I curse ye. Im gonna email them in a moment…)

  191. ok yes I’m commenting again but you inspired me to go to my local domestic violence shelter and donate $10. its not a lot but it was all that I had to give. merry christmas!

  195. Here’s my two (er 10) cents! What a great idea. I’ve been wanting to go to our local shelter’s thrift shop in search of smaller clothes. I will go today (walking there to help with the exercise I’ve been missing), look for clothing AND donate at least $20 (which is what you’re up to here). Thank you for inspiring me!! I needed that kick in the butt.

  199. I will delurk too. I’m one of your few male readers and wanted to say that for me I needed your reminder to step back and look around my community and remember that it may not seem big to me to donate five dollars here or there but that it really can help those less fortunate than I.

    happy holidays.

  201. Listening to The Great Mother (a CD of heartbeats & lullyby) and typing a comment for battered people everywhere. Or at least in Austin.

  203. As I haven’t written today’s post (about an experience that had me thinking of you the almost the whole time), I’ll make sure to link (although my readers/commenters seem to have already commented here. I may be sponging readers off you).

  206. How wonderful! I hope you and your hubby have special blessings in the new year for your generosity. Perhaps you’ll get to see first-hand what your giving has accomplished!

    God Bless!
    Christin Bland

  216. This is such a wonderful idea, and shows again that you are so much more than a fitness guru (though we knew that was true already). I’ve been really worried about all those families without enough to eat, losing their homes, the additional people living on the cold winter streets…I hadn’t thought about the increase in DV. It’s really scary…and if I were in that position, I would sure hope people would do something, make a stand to help me!

  217. I wish I was a big big company who could match this. Or even a small company. Love the rhyme today- have a great festive weekend! As fer us, we are heading to hand out more blankets tomorrow with a group for the homeless shelter. My girls are LOVING it.

  219. Well, I think I’ve commented before, but I’m more commonly lurking around 🙂
    Yay for good causes!
    and holidays!

    >love.

  223. Oh My Gosh!! 228 comments??? You go girl.

    Yes, I am playing hostess all next week to multiple relatives and will be cooking my ass off.

    Have a great weekend. Hopefully we will be skiing in the mtns tomorrow.

  234. As a former dealer with domestic violence myself, I applaud your efforts (even though the domestic violence shelter in the town in which I lived at the time was less than helpful, they’re probably not all that way).

    this is awesome.

  237. Wow… a LOT of comments so far.

    I liked the poem! How festive!

    I spent all week being “holiday”… watching xmas movies, eating xmas feasts, and revelling in xmas decorations and traditions. Funness.

  244. A very close relative was a victim of domestic abuse. It can happen to anyone. Thanks for doing this MizFit! No one should have to live like that.

  251. Dear Miz,
    YOU are someone truly special. Thank you for your generosity, and for giving me added inspiration.

    much love,
    k

  253. thank you for pointing out as you did far far above (#66) why we need to do this right now.

    I had not thought at all about the economy impacting domestic violence.

    Amber

  255. THANKS TO ALL *YOU* and to the people who had started their own form of giving back in their community and let me know about it via email.

    we need to get the amount up…Im gonna wait the weekend though before i up the ante just in case I receive a zillion comments and need to mortgage the house 🙂

    MOST IMPORTANTLY a link. To the national domestic violence hotline (thanks to the woman who reminded me I was remiss. Im rolling on my thumbs with the handheld so this is all I have right now):

    http://www.ndvh.org/

  256. Not in the slightest bit surprised that in this time of frivolous family fun my beloved Miz Fit and her bumbling band still spare a thought for those who don’t have the luxury of enjoying the holidays free from worries and woe.

    Miz, did you see on the Safeplace site -Matching Gifts Challenge 2008- that any contributions up to $500 will be matched by an anonymous donor??

    Making a donation via the site is very easy and straightforward too, if any other commenters wish to donate more than their time and words here.

    Every little bit helps.

  258. Miz, did you see on the Safeplace site -Matching Gifts Challenge 2008- that any contributions up to $500 will be matched by an anonymous donor??

    I HADNT. (go Miz. so focused on getting the give going she missed the fine print :))

    THANKS CARA.

  259. Mizfit, you and your family are amazing.

    Last night, my mom and I made up grab bags for the homeless. We had enough supplies for 9 and they included: mittins, socks, a can of coke, a granola bar, hand warmers, chocolate, hot chocolate mix, and an orange – all tied up with a bow. We distribute them to the first 9 homeless people we see downtown, along with a Sweatshirt or Jacket.

  262. What a fantastic idea!
    I’m new here. Just sent your way today to see about the generous things you are doing.
    Good luck to you!

  267. okay i know this is costing you 10 more cents but i wanted to say that this post has inspired me to donate to my local women’s shelter, too. i hadn’t thought about how bad times could impact society in non-purely-economic ways. thanks miz!

  269. Thanks to the gazelle, I found my way here to comment so you can give more money to the shelter! What a great idea and kudos to doing something positive this holiday season. Happy crazy cold holidays!

  271. I’m even more in love with you now, MizFit, that you’re showing this amazing Christmas spirit on top of your regular awesome spirit. 🙂

    Keep up the great work!

  278. For you and for my favorite spin instructor, who asks us all to “please be kind to someone today!” thanks miz.

  283. What a great way to spend some money at the holidays!
    I posted just to get the dime out of your pocket!

  287. You just gave me goose bumps. Thanks for doing this and setting a good example.

    I was just at the grocery store and saw Salvation Army. I never have any cash. Then, I put one and two together and got some out when I paid for the groceries.

    We’ve been so blessed this year, and especially this month. We’ve been able to help a lot this Christmas.

    Thanks for giving!

  289. I just did the math and the time I spend typing this makes the shelter more money per second than I make at my ickety job. Whoo!

  291. I will send this to friends and hope I can help you reach 500?

    I am embarrassed to say I don’t think about domestic violence this time of year. I have been blessed to not have it in my life and end up focused on doing for the homeless.

    your post has made me laugh AND think.

  293. right back at all of you as more than a few members of the Bumbling Band have emailed to say they will match in their own communities what we raise here…

  299. COMMENT COMMENT COMMENT!! I love that you’re doing this and I’m sorry my first comment on your blog requires you having to spend money 😉

  317. Not trying to steal thy moniker, but isn’t it cute?? My granddaughter calls me SweetP. Anywho, I’m in for a match of the total…either for an Austin shelter or one up here in the sticks!

    I’m so glad you had the idea and that you’re spreading the word. I needed a little holiday cheer today.

  319. I’m here following Charlotte’s request! What a great idea!!! Here’s to American’s paying it forward!!

  324. Came over via michellesmiles…I just wanted to leave a comment to support the cause. Love what you are doing – not only the financial donation but also raising awareness.

  325. Here via Reb at SibuPegasus and I am spreading the word via my blog, too.
    I added this quote from Hamilton Wright Mabie:
    “Blessed is the Season which engages the whole world in a Conspiracy of Love.”

    Awareness raised AND money raised? You rock!

  326. Oh Generous Miz Fit:

    You are truly a wonderful person. Thanks.

    Shameless plug city:

    I am proud to announce that I have a brand spankin’ new radio show and would love the bumbling band to listen in. Each week I will be doing give-aways, too!

    The show is called the 101 Foods That Could Save Your Life radio show. It streams live at http://www.WYLL.com at 8:30am CST on Saturdays. Too early for you? Well you can find the podcasts at http://www.101FoodsThatCouldSaveYourLife.com

    Happy Holidays! Sending Miz Fit some delicious, crispy Latkes cooked in canola oil, tamped dry with paper towels with a side of apple sauce and sour cream – yum!

  336. Thank YOU, Miz, for all that you do. I love reading your blog and I think you are a really positive influence on people. Peace and happiness to you and yours. 😉

  337. OKAY, Im gonna wait through the weekend, see if we hit 500, and then most likely up ante.

    double what we make here & *donate* that to Safeplace.

    not that I dont think we can get to 1000 by christmas eve morning—-but just in case.

    SPEAKING OF MORNING.

    if you have some free time during this one check out comment #335, Dave Grotto.

    He has a radio show launching this morning and, should you miss it, PODCASTS TO FOLLOW!

    support a fellow Bumbler & learn a few things along the way!

  350. what an incredible thing to do! It is such a shame that places like this need our support, if only there was no need for them.

  355. Some exceptionally bad things once happened to me just before Christmas nine years ago… not domestic violence, other violence, but makes me happy to be able to add a comment here. Thanks!

  357. Wonderful person–>Miz.
    Great idea, nice thing for me to read about first thing today, you rock.
    Um about me? I have a huge chocolate lab doggie and a cranky white long haired cat. I love food and cooking but am pretty much a terrible baker which pains me so.
    There.

  362. My attempt at busting a rhyme:

    Click Clack Moo!

    What a great thing to do!

    You’re a great inspiration.

    Glad to know you!

  364. You are amazing and I am going to let the staff over at SafePlace know about all of you! As a former employee of the agency, I can tell you they do GREAT work. They were one of the first DV organizations to focus on teens as well as adults… many resources have come out of that!

    see the new(ish) national teen dating violence helpline/chatline based in Austin http://www.loveisrespect.org/

  371. THANK YOU THANK YOU and a reminder why:

    With all the stretched finances, increased alcohol consumption and the pressures of family holidays domestic violence is one crime which, sadly, is guaranteed to spike over the holidays.

    It’s not a lot but every little bit helps and Im still working to find a COMPANY (hello PR Peeps!) to match anything we make.

  379. a dime it is
    for those in need
    i care naught for those of greed
    so here’s 10 cents
    to help those ladies
    who’s men are lacking
    in social graces

    what a nice thing to do. i’ll pass this along….

  389. This is such a wonderful idea and a wonderful thing for you to do. You are truly going to make a difference to many people.

  391. Hi there

    Was pointed in this direction to add tothe 10 cent donation by Shauna (Dietgirl). Great idea and a very worthy cause.

    Janne

  400. What a great idea! I having been reading your blog as much as I would like lately, but it’s always a treat (for either the mind, the body or the spirit).

    Merry Christmas!

  406. Wow! Good for you.

    How fantastic – the power of blogging to support a really, really important cause. Particularly at this time.

    So, here’s my comment for what it’s worth. And thanks to DG for sending me here.

    Happy Chrismukkah!

  410. As a woman who survived ten years of domestic violence during my first marriage, and have been blessed with a safe and happy relationship with my second husband of eight years, thank you, Miz Fit, and God Bless You from the bottom of my heart!

  413. THANK *YOU* Tammy for commenting and for sharing.

    Im hoping we hit 1000 only (merely? mostly?) because of the people who said they’d match what I made.

    if we hit 500 Ren Man and I will just double what we were gonna give AND (according to comment #264…I cant find it on their site) an anonymous donor at SafePlace will MATCH THAT!

  419. What a lovely thing to do MizFit. Here’s my comment, and have a wonderful holiday – what you’re doing is what the festive season is all about.

    🙂

  422. Been linked through from Dietgirl. Awesome cause, holiday karma will hit you with the happy stick!

    Hope you have a wonderful holiday.

  437. What a great idea!
    You’re very generous, I hope you have the brilliant holiday you deserve!

  442. THANKS CARA. here is the link all made pretty:

    CLICK HERE and read about Safeplace’s donation matching 2008 initiative.

    Im so so longing to get to 500 as then our 100 (gonna double) will become TWO HUNDRED as will the donation of our matching Austin donor (FOUR HUNDRED!).

    and other people who have offered to match in their towns just might decide they wanna go from 50.00 to 100 as well.

    It’s all about touching as many lives as we can.

    and yes. next time we COMMENT FOR THE GREATER GOOD Miz shall be ALL KINDS of more prepared and have companies ready wait and standing in the wings (hello Blogher!) to match our donations and then some.

    there’s a first time for everthing, right? 🙂

  454. What an awesome idea, Miz! It’s too easy to get caught up in the holidays and forget that there are so many less fortunate than we are.

    Have a great holiday season! I’m flying into Dallas tonight, and hear it’s supposed to be around 20 degrees! And here I thought I was leaving North Carolina for warmer climes!

  455. I’m down with this, as my college-age children say! Mizift, I’d follow you anywhere. Keep doing whatya doing and going whereya going and I’ll follow. Love to all.

  458. I heard on the television show “Sunday Morning” today how we all need to dig deep into our pockets and give to those in need during these hard economic times. How we can’t wait for the government to do it, and how we all have to do what we can NOW. Thanks for getting us all involved.

  463. You go girl! When you’re all done collecting the dimes, drop the bag o’ coins on the head (ahem….) of the abusers. Here’s my dime for the cause.

  469. Thanks for donating and reminding us of the challenges faced in families experiencing domestic violence. I hope “my few cents” help for the greater good.

  472. Oh man.
    for a second i was like “1000 comments?! Thats $10,000!!”

    I think I need to go back to school.

    OR YOU WERE AN ENGLISH MAJOR AS I WAS! I had to double check double check that Id be right with the 100.00 🙂 and if we hit 500 Ren Man and I shall double our give since it is then MATCHED at safeplace.
    Kelly Turner
    http://www.everygymsnightmare.com

  473. quick reminder why:

    With all the stretched finances, increased alcohol consumption and the pressures of family holidays domestic violence is one crime which, sadly, is guaranteed to spike over the holidays.

    and a little adding of more people. some whom I gave an early heads up about the post and (THANK YOU!) they accidentally commented THURSDAY.

    yada yada yada thank you thank you.

  475. From one member of the Tribe to anoher, thanks the the opportunity to perform a mitzvah. Yasher koach!

  481. tossing in another dime o’mine to say GO WOMEN OF MYSTERY!

    more than anything you all have so bolstered my faith in people helping people.

    by your commenting.

    by the emails youve sent me.

    people truly are kind generous and thoughtful at heart.

    thanks for the reminder.

  486. I wonder who’ll get the honour of 500? I rather hope it’s the Miz herself, though I suppose who doesn’t matter nearly as much as the what it represents. Miz you should be proud of yourself and your bumbling band, this truly is what the holidays should be about, love and compassion.

  497. yay! i drop in on charlotte’s “the great fitness experiment” blog now and then, and saw her post about YOUR blog . . . what an awesome thing to do! very in the spirit of christmas; thanks to your inspiration, i’ll be thinking of a way to pay it forward myself the next few days.

  498. WOO HOO!
    great way to start tonight the first night of Hanukkah.

    now Im still thinking Ren Man and I need to up our donation to 20 cents per comment….

  508. What a wonderful idea, what a great cause. Thank you for this small opportunity to do something for others. May your Mitzvah bless you a million times.

  510. Awesome cause. I volunteered for a women’s phone line (http://wire.org.au) for a couple of years. Sadly, domestic violence is far more common than most people realise.

    All the best for the festive / new year season!

  511. What an awesome way to raise money and awareness of a terrible issue. Have a wonderful hanukkah and new year.

  519. What a great idea. Hope it does not break the bank for you. I know you will have a wonderful holiday season, and an awesome new year!

  521. Myths and Facts about Domestic Violence (from http://www.kdva.org/myths.html)

    MYTH: Domestic violence does not affect many Americans.

    FACT: A woman is beaten every 15 seconds in the United States. Additionally, 63% of young men between the ages of 11 and 20 are serving time for homicide for killing their mother’s abuser.

    MYTH: Battering is only a momentary loss of temper.

    FACT: Battering is the use of violence and other forms of abuse to establish control and power in a relationship. One in five female victims reports having been battered over and over again by the same person.

    MYTH: Stress causes battering.

    FACT: Obviously some batterers experience stress, but stress does not cause abuse. Many men under severe stress do not batter. Even if the practitioner helps the batterer reduce his stress, the violence will continue or eventually resume because the batterer still feels entitled to assault his partner.

    MYTH: Drugs and alcohol cause the violence.

    FACT: Addictions are used as excuses to free the batterer from responsibility for the behavior. This theory does not explain why the batterer uses violence, why he targets a woman for abuse, nor why he batters when sober. The addictive batterer must be treated for two separate problems–his addiction and his violence. He will not necessarily stop battering if he gains control over his addiction.

    MYTH: Battered women provoke the violence.

    FACT: Any woman can find herself battered. The victim is not at fault but rather the batterer, the partner who has committed a crime. No one can be responsible for another person’s deliberate choices and actions. Domestic violence victims, however, frequently hear comments from their abusers like, “I did it for your own good,” or from outsiders, “you must have really made him mad.” These statements can confuse a woman and lead her to take responsibility for the violence or blame herself. No matter what, domestic violence is not the victim’s fault.

    MYTH: Only women are victims of domestic violence.

    FACT: Approximately 95% of those battered are women; however, in a small number of cases, women are the batterers and their male partners, the victims.

    MYTH: The problem is couples assaulting each other.

    FACT: Again, nearly ninety-five percent of victims are women. Although some women are violent to their partners–often even in self-defense– it is impossible to understand battering by counting up the number of times one person hits another.Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse in the attempt to increase power and control.

    MYTH: Domestic violence occurs only in poor urban areas.

    FACT: Women of all cultures, races, occupations, incomes, and ages are battered by husbands, lovers, boyfriends, and partners. One in four pregnant women has a history of partner abuse.

    MYTH: Domestic violence is a push, a slap, or a punch and does not produce serious injuries.

    FACT: Battered women are often severely injured and even murdered. Between 22% and 35% of women who visit emergency rooms are there for injuries related to ongoing partner abuse.

    MYTH: It is easy for a battered woman to leave her abuser.

    FACT: Women who leave their abuser are at 75% greater risk of being killed by the abuser than those who stay. Nationally, 50% of homeless women and children are on the street because of violence in their home.

    MYTH: Domestic violence does not affect children.

    FACT: Child abuse occurs in up to 70% of the homes where domestic violence occurs. When a parent is victimized by domestic violence, children are abused at a rate 15 times the national average.

    MYTH: After a woman leaves an abusive partner, the abuse stops.

    FACT: Separated women are three times more likely than divorced women, and 25 times more likely than married women living with their husbands, to be victimized by a batterer. Batterers frequently take advantage of court-ordered visitation to inflict harm on their former partners and their children.

    MYTH: Batterers who seek custody do so out of love for their children and a desire to be good parents.

    FACT: Custody litigation frequently becomes a vehicle whereby batterers attempt to extend or maintain their control and authority over the abused parent after separation. Fathers who battered the mother are twice as likely to seek sole physical custody for their children than are non-violent fathers.

    MYTH: Allegations of child abuse increase significantly in divorce and custody disputes; women frequently fabricate allegations of abuse to hurt their former partner or to gain an advantage in custody disputes.

    FACT: Allegations of child sexual abuse are rare, occurring in only 2-3% of all divorce cases and fewer than 10% of custody cases. Less than 1/2 of all allegations of abuse against fathers are made by the child’s mother, most are made by third parties. Allegations of child sexual abuse are not more likely to be false when made during custody/divorce proceedings than when made at other times.

  522. What to do if you are a Victim of Domestic Violence

    1. Call 911 and report the incident. Write down the police report/incident number and keep with your records.

    2. If necessary, seek medical attention. Have injuries documented and photographed.

    3. Go to a safe place such as a domestic violence shelter.

    4. Seek the support of caring people. Tell someone you trust about the abuse. They may be your friend, a family member, a neighbor, a co-worker, or staff members of support agencies. Talk to them in a private, safe place. You do not need to face abuse alone.

    5. Have a safety plan. If your partner is abusive, have a plan to protect yourself and your children in case you need to leave quickly. If you are abusive, be honest with yourself, think of the consequences, and get help. Call a local domestic violence shelter for more information.

    6. File for a Protective Order that will tell your abuser to stay away.

    When you decide to get help, find a support system that works for you. A trusted friend, family member, or professional can help you devise a safety plan and find a safe place for you to stay, if necessary.

    If you are a victim of abuse, you are not alone. You have the right to be safe! You are not responsible for violent behavior! No one deserves to be beaten or threatened!

  523. What to do if someone you know is being abused:
    *Gather all the information you can about domestic violence.
    *Lend a sympathetic ear may be the best help you can offer.
    *Acknowledge that no one deserves to be hurt.
    *Guide your friend or relative to community services . *Share the information you’ve gathered about abuse with her privately.
    *Let her know she is not alone and that people care about her.
    *Give her the emotional support she needs.
    *Don’t tell her what to do, how she should feel, or make excuses for the abuser.
    *Be there for her when she needs you.
    *Help her develop a safety plan.
    *If she decides to leave, contact the local domestic violence hotline or battered women’s shelter .
    *If you hear or see battering incident occurring, call the police immediately.
    *Consider volunteering for your local domestic violence project.

  527. Im thrilled to be emptying the wallet and, should we NOT go over 1000, Ren Man and I are ponying up 20 cents per comment.

    Miz

  529. Miz…Here’s some motivation with a swift kick in the pants for your audience. We can all use it to embrace the New Year!

    SOAPBOX of the week: permission to pause

    “All the animals excepting man know that the principal business of life is to enjoy it.” – Samuel Butler, author

    Ain’t that the truth! I’ll wager that you scarcely remember the last time you cashed in a handful of your jillion back-logged sick days for some blissful R&R. And, when you hark back to those retreats filled with unadulterated fun, you wonder, under furled brow, why you needed to convince yourself that you’d “earned” this. What are you saving up for anyway? Perhaps you’ve forgotten the definition of the pleasurably promising word: Va·ca·tion. If you find you qualify as one these vocab-deficient, self-neglecting workaholics, there’s no need to identify yourself…just get off your can and vacate the premises! Be it for a week or a wink, allow yourself the time off and time out. Because you deserve it! Don’t merely survive. Thrive! We are all in the business of living first. And business is goood!

    Copyright 2008 by Kimberlie Dykeman
    The book “Pure Soapbox” available nationwide online and where books are sold.
    A portion of the proceeds of all book sales is donated to LIVESTRONG.

  530. Guess I better hop in. Haven’t been near the computer all weekend. Sneaky that you saved it for the day before Christmas Vacation or Hanukkah Vacation in your neck of the woods 😉

  536. Fantastic idea – So good to see such genuine charity – from you and everyone who’s going to match as well. Here’s my 10c worth!

  551. Ten cents for every calm ent? After I saw what the ents did to Isengard, let’s keep them as calm as possible.

    (Sorry, I couldn’t think of anything serious to say.)

  555. I think this is a great idea for a great cause. I hope you haven’t found yourself in over your head…..
    Good luck and happy holidays.

    The Grant Family

    p.s. (Kate sent me over)
    🙂

  556. I hope you haven’t found yourself in over your head…..

    Never, Rachel! it’s all about giving and perhaps prodding others to do the same in their towns.

    I cant wait to give…totaling it all up wednesday morning.

  560. two…

    I just tried to submit “two…” and got this error that made me smile…

    WordPress “You are posting comments too quickly. Slow down.” =)

    I guess I’ll just have to do some here and there whenever I’m online =)

  622. TWENTY!

    Happy Holidays MizFit

    There’s my 3 sets of 20 for you…OK, for charity. One of the best workouts I’ve had in a few days =) Hope this helps you help others. Thanks for the inspiration, and example.

    I want to share what I did to help this year, but then it wouldn’t be anonymous.

    The one thing I can share is…If you share when you have nothing at all it sure makes it a lot easier to share when you have more then you need. I’m grateful for all the opportunities there are to share.

    Time to get off my butt and get wrapping presents.

  628. Great idea, I wonder if I could make a similar arrangement with Ronald McDonald House @Stanford University (our local Domestic Violence Shelter) when I am in a better place. It is worth a check out.

    I’ve often wondered how safe such places are when they are rather famous as shelters and the occupants would probably benefit more from having an annonomous place to stay??

  642. A lovely and generous idea. It is fabulous that you are donating to such a worthy cause.

    Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

  643. What a generous and thoughtful act this is. I came late to this post, sent by Kate and want to cost you a little more, and help those who really need help.

  644. I’m here because Kate let us know via Multiply you were going to donate based on the number of comments you received on this post! So I came over to participate… I think it is great that you are doing this and Happy Holidays to you. 🙂

  646. Wow…this is a great idea and boy are you going to have a very heavy bag of dimes to carry…good thing you work-out 😉

    This is something very close to my heart and I’m happy to post…kudos for helping out.

  647. Here by way of Michelle Smiles. Thank you for doing this, and happy holidays to you and those you love.

  650. I can’t believe all the comments (and I really hope I’m not #666, ; )

    We finally finished our very last Christmas shopping last night and have everything wrapped and ready to go, too. It is such a relief. Now we can just sit back and enjoy the “Chaos”.

    I hope your Hanukkah Hysteria is enjoyable!!

  652. How many comments are we up to now? 600 some? This is being retweeted across the tweet-osphere and blogged across the blogosphere…

  662. One year we went down to the LA Food Kitchen an de-boned 100 partially frozen chickens. The line for food was out the door and wrapped all around the building. When was the last time you had to wait in the cold for 2 hours to get a bite to eat?

  672. What a great generous act! I pray that more people such as yourself continue to give donations or do charity work for others. Merry Christmas!

  681. seriously, you’#re amazing to do this so that women and kids with such terrible stuff to deal with all year round can be helped in the holiday season

  686. How about this, can I give 10% of your 10 cents per comment?? This would be great. It’s not much but let me know where I could help out. ~j

  694. GOOD MORNING AMAZING PEOPLE!! Announcement in todays post, and Ill twitter and repost 🙂 but we raised 71.00.

    AND Im GONNA DOUBLE THAT.

    So we’re donating 142.00 which is being matched by safeplace bringing it to 184.00

    AND so many of you are percentaging and matching and DOING IN YOUR OWN TOWNS.

    THANK YOU THANK YOU.

    this is all coming again.

    next time I shall get us sponsors to match.

    xo xo,

    Miz

  699. Fabulous idea.

    And to be honest, I wish I’d thought of it first. :o)

    I will also be matching your contribution to a local shelter…so bring on the comments!

  702. I think I am late with my 10 cent message, but I will be donating $100 to our local shelter for women and children. Thanks for your donation.

  704. How did I spend my Christmas eve. I listened to the man upstairs abuse his wife in front of his children. Will I ever get the sound of his young daughter crying for her mother out of my mind. Probably not. Why did I not call the police? A month before the man who lives directly above me abused his partner and when he determined I was the one who called the police he stalked me for about four days. I called my landlord to ask for help but was told hey they are just celebrating their Christmas go up and ask them to be quiet. In her words “It’s not that hard.” I informed her I did not want to get the shit knocked out of me. Needless to say she left it up to me. I might have gone up there,but it was impossible. The day before I had fallen on the ice and just that morning had gotten out of the hospital. Killamanjaro would have been easier to climb. I will say that things did quiet down after a while on Christmas eve, but I now walk in fear. Am I an expert in domestic advice. I would say the twenty years I lived in my parent’s home getting beaten on a daily basis counts. Will I ever forget that little girl’s cries? The more important question, will she ever forget the violence she grew up with. How will it make her forever view male/female relationsihips and herself. My wish for Christmas is we can reach a point in society where women and children are safe, and shelters are not necessary. Until then here is my comment and God speed the donation. I will pray for a corporate donor to match.

  706. I hope to be Miss Fit one day, and have learned a lot from you. Here’s to once again seeing you do something for others.

    Awesome!

    -DonnaLynn in Hawaii

  707. I think what you are doing is wonderful! After having spent 5 years in an abusive relationship, it’s nice to know that there are people out there who care!

  710. Oh you know me..and my rallying for a cause…especially this one…

    here’s my 10 cents and a deal for Ren Man….

    If he gives up his cash..(AND you hit 1000 comments) I will donate a .01 cent per comment to your cause and .05 cents to my local shelter!

  711. Thank you for another informative blog. Where else could I get that kind of info written in such an ideal way? I’ve a project that I’m just now working on, and I’ve been on the look out for such information.

Trackbacks

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This