Weight has been an issue for me for a long time. As a child, food was one of my greatest comforters and "friends". I'd even sneak food out of the kitchen and run up to my room to enjoy it in a feeble attempt to fill whatever void I might be feeling ... fear, loneliness, anxiety. Food was (and is) an escape ... and when you're a child with a fast metabolism it's not such a big deal. But like a tiny spark that's lit in a forest of dry leaves, those indulgences which seem harmless at first can quickly escalate into addiction and over-indulgence. That small flame quickly turns into a roaring blaze that becomes unmanageable and leaves destruction and chaos in its wake. I've lived through wild fire seasons in California, some right on my doorstep, so I know how immediate and overwhelming the destruction can be. Why do I share all of this? Because I'm not alone in my struggles. Because I'm ready for change, and if my honesty can help even one person, it will be worth it. Also, let's be honest ... I can't do this alone. So, the more accountability and light shed on the hidden places, the better. I am beginning a program called Take Charge. Take Charge is an Intense Behavioral Therapy (IBT) System of Medical Nutrition Education administered by Sal Dileo, Pharmacist at Pleasantville Pharmacy in Pleasantville, New York. (pleasantville-pharmacy.com/about-us) I know how frustrating the process can feel ... "another weight loss program. I've lost and gained, lost and gained before ... why should this time be any different?" One of the things that makes this time different for me is that I am ready to choose health, to choose me, and to do what it takes to step into the fullness of who I am created to be. I don't have all the answers, but I don't have to because I will not be doing this alone. If you'd like to learn more about the Take Charge Program, feel free to give Sal a call at 914-769-0002. Your initial consultation and weekly weigh-ins with him are FREE. I will be giving you regular updates on this blog ... of the good, the bad, and the ugly, so stay tuned and feel free to ask me any questions you might have. And when you come into the Pharmacy, you are welcome to ask me how I'm doing and give me lots of encouragement ... It takes a village! :)

Thanks for reading!

Carrie