Flattered, thanks
I write. You read. You say, I inspire, motivate, and encourage you. But, I feel you give me as much if not more.
I can’t do this in silence – battle obesity. That’s the very reason I started this blog in July 2010. We’ve been through a lot together. Some have come and gone, but most of you are still right here with me. Listening to me rant, rave. Helping me travel this bumpy path to fitness and health. This is NOT easy. This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. You all get to say you helped me turn childhood obesity statistics upside down.
Some days are easier than others. Some days I need you more. Somehow on days when I’m struggling I get a Facebook message or an email from one of you — you all make my heart sing. Here’s some touching words I’ve received over the past few weeks:
“Your blog is astounding Chrisetta, you are truly an amazing person. One to take notice of and follow. I am a better person for knowing you.” ~Ashley …A better person for knowing me? This one made me cry. Really, really cry.
In response to me saying I was going to start a food movement…“Great blog post, as usual, but you should change the words “I’m starting a movement” to “I’ve started a movement” because it’s already begun!” ~Kathy
After a rant about losing my zest for workouts…“You have done SO MUCH! Truly, cut yourself some slack. You’ve laid out your concerns and anguish, now sit back and open your heart and spirit — that gal’s gonna come tumbling out.” ~Debbie
“You are amazing.” ~Scarlett
“I’ve recently discovered you and have been following your progress on FB and your blog. My friend’s birthday is this weekend, she’s a fan of yours as well. I’d like to surprise her with a copy of your cookbook (autographed?) THANKS for your inspiration…” ~Carole
“Just writing a note to tell you how I enjoy your blog and FB page. Your food pics look amazing.” ~Jennifer
From LeeAnn – Community Coordinator at New Seasons Market: “I can’t thank YOU enough for finding me here at New Seasons Market and being so persistent from the start on being here with us. Last night was ‘a feather in my cap’ here at the store! I knew people would LOVE you and you came through like a rainbow – it was a great event and I hope we can do it again sometime soon! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.”
I’m flattered. On a regular basis I’m reminded why I share my story publicly, openly, and honestly. Really, I’d be a fool not to. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
For once and for all, Farewell Fatso!
Chrisetta Mosley
I am a product – and now a survivor – of childhood obesity. As a child, my family always told me that my extra weight was merely baby fat and I’d eventually grow out of it. I never did. Instead, my childhood is filled with memories of not being able to ride a bike, flattening its training wheels from being over the recommended weight, and avoiding P.E. classes by any means necessary. For years, I wore my fatness like a wounded soldier wears a Purple Heart - with pride. I owned the look. I dressed it up. I worked the room. There wasn't a skinny girl who intimidated me. I made sure my hair was laid just right. Nails polished. Outfits coordinated to the tee. Accessories to compliment every outfit. But everyone has a breaking point, and mine came in the spring of 2004 when I tipped the scale at nearly 400 pounds 388 to be exact. I was MISERABLE trapped inside of that body. I no longer wore my Purple Heart with pride. Rather, I was ashamed and frightened. Ashamed that I had allowed food to become my everything – frightened I would die because of it. Drastic times called for drastic measures... Today, I’m bound and determined to live a better, healthier, active lifestyle. I realize I’m no longer a passenger in my life, I’m the driver. I’m overcoming my inhibitions and I’m slowly but surely saying farewell to my old childhood nemesis, obesity. For once and for all, Farewell Fatso!