SMOKERS... LETS KICK the HABIT!!

[Daktari]

Thanks LP! I spent a good part of the morning going back through the thread and will keep doing so when needed. I appreciate the support offered here and am lucky to be part of such a great community! :)


S'grand to come back to this thread and read that more folks are choosing their lungs over their addiction(s). :cheerleader:

Keep the faith those of you who are giving it a go. If you lapse just carry right on and don't give up giving up.


LP, you've done brilliantly making it to half a year. A whole half a year!!! Go you! :cheerleader: :cheerleader:


Think it's 2 and half-ish years since I gave up tobacco and it 6 and half months since I gave up the other thing that was killing me.

[Lady Pamela]

S'grand to come back to this thread and read that more folks are choosing their lungs over their addiction(s). :cheerleader:

Keep the faith those of you who are giving it a go. If you lapse just carry right on and don't give up giving up.


LP, you've done brilliantly making it to half a year. A whole half a year!!! Go you! :cheerleader: :cheerleader:


Think it's 2 and half-ish years since I gave up tobacco and it 6 and half months since I gave up the other thing that was killing me.

I just wanted to say thank you for the kind words and support!


And as for your small green print..ha
CONGATS TO ALL OF IT!
Keep it up.

.

[Lady Pamela]

AS OF THE 4TH I AM

http://www.melodic.net/img/cover/img2/7months.jpg

SMOKE FREE!

I have stopped myself of smoking 7,840 smokes to date.
I have stopped myself from smoking 392 packs of smokes

Still blows my mind.
smiles


.

[funkyfemme]

AS OF THE 4TH I AM

http://www.melodic.net/img/cover/img2/7months.jpg

SMOKE FREE!

I have stopped myself of smoking 7,840 smokes to date.
I have stopped myself from smoking 392 packs of smokes

Still blows my mind.
smiles


.



:clap: AWESOME!!!!!!!!! :clap:

[funkyfemme]

They say it takes 21 days to break a habit so I'm hoping "they" are right! Feels like it anyway. I'm not twitchy anymore although I have moments where I feel like I want a smoke but it passes. I have avoided alcohol (until Sunday) knowing that would trigger me wanting to smoke. I had a margarita Sunday evening and I was amazed that I didn't have the first craving. I'm sure if I'd kept drinking I would've caved though.

Anyway, thanks for letting me share!

Congrats to you LP!!!! Sounds like you got this!! Keep it up!!!!! :)

[DapperButch]

Congrats Lady Pamela! That is awesome!

Great job funkyfemme! Keep it going! There will always be times that you have cravings...just wait it out and they will pass. Good job being conscious of how having that second drink may have brought up cravings (and maybe made you more vulnerable to giving in). Thinking ahead will serve you well in this battle. Great job!

[Lady Pamela]

They say it takes 21 days to break a habit so I'm hoping "they" are right! Feels like it anyway. I'm not twitchy anymore although I have moments where I feel like I want a smoke but it passes. I have avoided alcohol (until Sunday) knowing that would trigger me wanting to smoke. I had a margarita Sunday evening and I was amazed that I didn't have the first craving. I'm sure if I'd kept drinking I would've caved though.

Anyway, thanks for letting me share!

Congrats to you LP!!!! Sounds like you got this!! Keep it up!!!!! :)

Congrats to you for the 21 days!
Keep it up!

As for the 21 days in my own opinion, I think it is a personal journey and has no time frame.
Just the fact that you are 21 days clean is amazing and should be credited. Ya know what I mean...smiles

As for myself,
I work very hard at staying in the moment with any addiction.
Over confidence has lead to relapse in my past.
And that simply is not an option for me anymore.
So I stay in the here and now, hopeful for tomorrow's
And celebrate the me I am becoming...Make sence?


For all of you on this ride,
Stay strong today.
Know you are not alone.
And check in often...smiles

[Lady Pamela]

Congrats Lady Pamela! That is awesome!

Great job funkyfemme! Keep it going! There will always be times that you have cravings...just wait it out and they will pass. Good job being conscious of how having that second drink may have brought up cravings (and maybe made you more vulnerable to giving in). Thinking ahead will serve you well in this battle. Great job!

Just wanted to say thank you so much!

And good advice as well.
Have a wonderful day.
And thanks for showing up for others on this ride.


.

[funkyfemme]

Congrats to you for the 21 days!
Keep it up!

As for the 21 days in my own opinion, I think it is a personal journey and has no time frame.
Just the fact that you are 21 days clean is amazing and should be credited. Ya know what I mean...smiles

As for myself,
I work very hard at staying in the moment with any addiction.
Over confidence has lead to relapse in my past.
And that simply is not an option for me anymore.
So I stay in the here and now, hopeful for tomorrow's
And celebrate the me I am becoming...Make sence?


For all of you on this ride,
Stay strong today.
Know you are not alone.
And check in often...smiles



Thank you so much and yeah, totally makes sense!!

I so hear ya on staying in the moment. I don't want to get overly confident either cause I've been there, done that and failed miserably! I really don't like counting the days but then I do. I'm just being careful, present and ENJOYING not smoking. I'm also constantly thinking about situations that may cause me to smoke and staying one step ahead. I wonder when that will cease. Eh, I'm just gonna keep working this and stay strong. I'm glad this space is here and it's good to know I'm not alone in this.

:)

[Lady Pamela]

Thank you so much and yeah, totally makes sense!!

I so hear ya on staying in the moment. I don't want to get overly confident either cause I've been there, done that and failed miserably! I really don't like counting the days but then I do. I'm just being careful, present and ENJOYING not smoking. I'm also constantly thinking about situations that may cause me to smoke and staying one step ahead. I wonder when that will cease. Eh, I'm just gonna keep working this and stay strong. I'm glad this space is here and it's good to know I'm not alone in this.

:)

Your definately not alone..smiles
And this thread actually helped me to stay honest to myself. Ha!

I plan and prepare so that smoking people do not effect me as much.
In time that grows easier but I can not say that it goes away altogether.
I used to use other stuff and though it is very few and far between,
some remnants of that creep in on a whim..You just have to breathe, exhale and walk on with your chin held high.


.

[Lady Pamela]

http://media-cdn5.pinterest.com/upload/68961438014198103_b25hDT89_f.jpg


Often when we read sayings like this, we think of those we care about or for.

Today my challenge for myself and you is this,

Look inward with such love and praise.
Show yourself just how special and WORTH IT you are!

Name out loud or on paper, everything you are greatful for.

Do this everyday for a couple weeks,
And see the shift that happens.



.
.

[Lady Pamela]

Looking forward to my year mark...ha!

I will take another month please...smiles

[Scuba]

CONGRATS BLAZE, FUNKYFEMME, PAMELA AND ALL QUITTERS!!

Just stopping by to say that it's been a good 2 years since I last smoked. Breathing is a beautiful thing and one I think we kind of take for granted!!

KEEP IT UP!!

[Justin]

Ok......time to start gearing up yet again to quit again, and I hope this time for good. Stress or life changes is always my downfall. I'm so tired of this monkey on my back so to speak....uuuugh I'm so done I hate it!!!!

[Lady Pamela]

CONGRATS BLAZE, FUNKYFEMME, PAMELA AND ALL QUITTERS!!

Just stopping by to say that it's been a good 2 years since I last smoked. Breathing is a beautiful thing and one I think we kind of take for granted!!

KEEP IT UP!!

Just wanted to say Thank You..from all of us.
Support is one of the greatest gifts I hold very dear.

Keep up the great work yourself.

[Lady Pamela]

Ok......time to start gearing up yet again to quit again, and I hope this time for good. Stress or life changes is always my downfall. I'm so tired of this monkey on my back so to speak....uuuugh I'm so done I hate it!!!!

Congrats on your desision.
Lots of great ideas on this thread and great people for support..smiles

Hope to see ya posting.

.

[not2shygrrl]

Congrats to you for the 21 days!
Keep it up!

As for the 21 days in my own opinion, I think it is a personal journey and has no time frame.
Just the fact that you are 21 days clean is amazing and should be credited. Ya know what I mean...smiles

As for myself,
I work very hard at staying in the moment with any addiction.
Over confidence has lead to relapse in my past.
And that simply is not an option for me anymore.
So I stay in the here and now, hopeful for tomorrow's
And celebrate the me I am becoming...Make sence?

For all of you on this ride,
Stay strong today.
Know you are not alone.
And check in often...smiles




there are soooo many success stories here from peeps who are now non smokers !! It is wonderful to have that control over our selves and for the betterment. To have any one of you "quitters" (as I affectionately call us) join and have your own story allows other to be empowered and hopefully supported here. Each journey is different, but it is our results that bond us here, and though getting here having been a smoker was damaging to me and others around me........I am pleased to be in the presence of each one of you here.......you are like me....human....willing.....supportive....hopeful. I know there are successes and failures, but both are learning tools. They are equally important here.

LP, I borrowed your post to add to.....well......just because :) ....I am totally proud of each of you here, it's not easy, but it is a choice you have made.

[Strappie]

Hi all..

I have to admit I took a long hiatus from this thread because I just didn't have it in me to quit.

I am here today to say I have 6 days Smoke Free under my belt. Some may say I'm cheating but to me it's not. I stopped putting all the toxins that cigarettes have in them in my body. I still get my nicotine fix with the help of a new eCig.

eCig's have came ALONG way since I bought my first one. A friend recently took me to this new place called ecigshopmn.com. I'm sure they sell the same ecigs in other states. These are NOT the same things that you can buy at the local gas stations or C-stores. These cost a bit more because of a few things. One (most important) Battery life. These things last much longer. My old one only lasted maybe 6 hours top. My new one lasts 24 some will last 3 days. Grated they cost a little more, I have two differnt kits. One cost me 59.00 and the other (my first one) my friend bought it for me it was $99.00 honestly I like the cheaper one the best.

This ecig is the best darn thing.

I guess if soemthing helps for you just do it... don't listen to anyone else. This works for me and I'm going to stick with it.

Good luck all!!!

[tazz]

Hi all..

I have to admit I took a long hiatus from this thread because I just didn't have it in me to quit.

I am here today to say I have 6 days Smoke Free under my belt. Some may say I'm cheating but to me it's not. I stopped putting all the toxins that cigarettes have in them in my body. I still get my nicotine fix with the help of a new eCig.

eCig's have came ALONG way since I bought my first one. A friend recently took me to this new place called ecigshopmn.com. I'm sure they sell the same ecigs in other states. These are NOT the same things that you can buy at the local gas stations or C-stores. These cost a bit more because of a few things. One (most important) Battery life. These things last much longer. My old one only lasted maybe 6 hours top. My new one lasts 24 some will last 3 days. Grated they cost a little more, I have two differnt kits. One cost me 59.00 and the other (my first one) my friend bought it for me it was $99.00 honestly I like the cheaper one the best.

This ecig is the best darn thing.

I guess if soemthing helps for you just do it... don't listen to anyone else. This works for me and I'm going to stick with it.

Good luck all!!!


***Congrats Strappie... Happy that you are taking the necessary steps to enjoy a toxin free Life... keep up the good work :)


~namaste'

[DapperButch]

Hi all..

I have to admit I took a long hiatus from this thread because I just didn't have it in me to quit.

I am here today to say I have 6 days Smoke Free under my belt. Some may say I'm cheating but to me it's not. I stopped putting all the toxins that cigarettes have in them in my body. I still get my nicotine fix with the help of a new eCig.

eCig's have came ALONG way since I bought my first one. A friend recently took me to this new place called ecigshopmn.com. I'm sure they sell the same ecigs in other states. These are NOT the same things that you can buy at the local gas stations or C-stores. These cost a bit more because of a few things. One (most important) Battery life. These things last much longer. My old one only lasted maybe 6 hours top. My new one lasts 24 some will last 3 days. Grated they cost a little more, I have two differnt kits. One cost me 59.00 and the other (my first one) my friend bought it for me it was $99.00 honestly I like the cheaper one the best.

This ecig is the best darn thing.

I guess if soemthing helps for you just do it... don't listen to anyone else. This works for me and I'm going to stick with it.

Good luck all!!!

Congrats on 6 days smoke free!

I would suspect it will be tough at the Reunion being around friends that you used to smoke with. Drinking also decreases our convictions to not smoke (or at least I know it would me, which is why I avoided alcohol and going out for a long time after quitting).

Good luck and everytime you want a cig, remind yourself as to why you are doing this.

[Lady Pamela]

Hi all..

I have to admit I took a long hiatus from this thread because I just didn't have it in me to quit.

I am here today to say I have 6 days Smoke Free under my belt. Some may say I'm cheating but to me it's not. I stopped putting all the toxins that cigarettes have in them in my body. I still get my nicotine fix with the help of a new eCig.

eCig's have came ALONG way since I bought my first one. A friend recently took me to this new place called ecigshopmn.com. I'm sure they sell the same ecigs in other states. These are NOT the same things that you can buy at the local gas stations or C-stores. These cost a bit more because of a few things. One (most important) Battery life. These things last much longer. My old one only lasted maybe 6 hours top. My new one lasts 24 some will last 3 days. Grated they cost a little more, I have two differnt kits. One cost me 59.00 and the other (my first one) my friend bought it for me it was $99.00 honestly I like the cheaper one the best.

This ecig is the best darn thing.

I guess if soemthing helps for you just do it... don't listen to anyone else. This works for me and I'm going to stick with it.

Good luck all!!!

Way cool and nice to see you here.
Keep up the great work.


.

[funkyfemme]

my 28th day without a smoke. It's going easier than I actually thought it would. I've had two drinks in these 28 days because I KNOW I will cave if I drink more than that. I kinda miss my wine at night but then again, I'm sleeping way better and feel tons better w/o it.

Like Dapper, I'm also avoiding going out with people that smoke because I just can't handle it right now. Yesterday while stopped at a red light I looked over and saw a cool little bar and all kinds of folks having a drink and smoking. That was HARD!! Damn I sooooo wanted to walk up and bum a smoke, have a drink and get my mingle on like the old days!! The good thing though was that as soon as the light turned green and it was outta sight, it was outta mind! YAY! I can do this!

Strappie, good luck to you and congrats on your six days!!

To everybody else, keep strong and congrats on all the days you've been smoke free too!!

Y'all have a great rest of your week!! :)

[Lady Pamela]

my 28th day without a smoke. It's going easier than I actually thought it would. I've had two drinks in these 28 days because I KNOW I will cave if I drink more than that. I kinda miss my wine at night but then again, I'm sleeping way better and feel tons better w/o it.

Like Dapper, I'm also avoiding going out with people that smoke because I just can't handle it right now. Yesterday while stopped at a red light I looked over and saw a cool little bar and all kinds of folks having a drink and smoking. That was HARD!! Damn I sooooo wanted to walk up and bum a smoke, have a drink and get my mingle on like the old days!! The good thing though was that as soon as the light turned green and it was outta sight, it was outta mind! YAY! I can do this!

Strappie, good luck to you and congrats on your six days!!

To everybody else, keep strong and congrats on all the days you've been smoke free too!!

Y'all have a great rest of your week!! :)

Just wanted to say WAY TO GO!
The hardest part for myself has been triggers in the social area as well.

I think at 30 days you need to treat yourself to something..ha
I had a yummy steak dinner at a great steak house...Seriously it does matter.
You would do it for someone else right?...Then why not yourself.

Anyway..so proud of you and keep it up!

Looking forward to seeing you in a couple days on your Month 1 anniversary!



.

[funkyfemme]

Just wanted to say WAY TO GO!
The hardest part for myself has been triggers in the social area as well.

I think at 30 days you need to treat yourself to something..ha
I had a yummy steak dinner at a great steak house...Seriously it does matter.
You would do it for someone else right?...Then why not yourself.

Anyway..so proud of you and keep it up!

Looking forward to seeing you in a couple days on your Month 1 anniversary!



.


I will probably just see my 30 day mark and keep going. I've never been one to reward myself lol. I guess I see the reward in my wallet and in my breathing and the wonderful smells that are coming back strong. :)

Thank you for the sweet words and encouragement!! You rock!!

[Lady Pamela]

I will probably just see my 30 day mark and keep going. I've never been one to reward myself lol. I guess I see the reward in my wallet and in my breathing and the wonderful smells that are coming back strong. :)

Thank you for the sweet words and encouragement!! You rock!!

oRRRR i DARE YOU TO TREAT YOURSELF AS WELL AS YOU TREAT OTHERS.

It is a good thing to pat yourself on the back, treat yourself to something or look at how incrredible what you are doing really is.
You would/have done it for others right?


Just razzin ya a bit...smiles

[funkyfemme]

oRRRR i DARE YOU TO TREAT YOURSELF AS WELL AS YOU TREAT OTHERS.

It is a good thing to pat yourself on the back, treat yourself to something or look at how incrredible what you are doing really is.
You would/have done it for others right?


Just razzin ya a bit...smiles

Well alrighty, Ms. Thang!! I will take that dare and let ya know how it goes. And yes, I most certainly have done it for my friends. That's always more fun though! :)

*off to ponder what I shall do for me* :thinking:

[Lady Pamela]

Well alrighty, Ms. Thang!! I will take that dare and let ya know how it goes. And yes, I most certainly have done it for my friends. That's always more fun though! :)

*off to ponder what I shall do for me* :thinking:

Awesome deal...smiles

Because the missing opiece to the puzzle is often knowing that

http://defendingcontending.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/best-1.jpg?w=640

I am excited for you. Looking forward to future posts...smiles

[Tony]

I've been using an e-cig for a few months but have to admit still smoking. I have however cut way down. Still have a long way to go.

[Lady Pamela]

I've been using an e-cig for a few months but have to admit still smoking. I have however cut way down. Still have a long way to go.


Remember, there are no rules.

I took a long time to cut down..then took a long time using aides before I went cold turkey.
Alot of people thought I was wrong, slow, whatever.
But today I am still smoke free..So for me it worked..smiles

Just saying.

And congrats on cutting down and working towards a heathier you.

.

[funkyfemme]

30 whole days!

Feeling kinda down today. *&%^#!@ hormones!! Don't feel much like celebrating. God, it would be so nice to sit on the deck in the sunshine and slowly smoke a cigarette. *sigh* No worries, I will keep strong!

Hope everyone is having a great, smoke-free day!!

Toodles :)

[Strappie]

Eight Days ..... Check!!!

[tazz]

Eight Days ..... Check!!!

***woooo hoooo!!! ^5 to Strappie!! :D

keep gooooing... keep goooing...

[tazz]

i admit that i smoke when i'm really stressed (you would think working out would help) and if i'm having really bad cramps... :|

i can go about 3 months without a cigarette... maybe longer...

someone informed me that if you are periodically smoking it could be a chemical imbalance??
that there may not be enough dopamine distributed in the body??

am i stating this correctly??

any thoughts??

[Lady Pamela]

30 whole days!

Feeling kinda down today. *&%^#!@ hormones!! Don't feel much like celebrating. God, it would be so nice to sit on the deck in the sunshine and slowly smoke a cigarette. *sigh* No worries, I will keep strong!

Hope everyone is having a great, smoke-free day!!

Toodles :)


CONGRATS!!!!

So what did or are you doing to celebrate and congradulate yourself on your month mark?

.

[Lady Pamela]

Eight Days ..... Check!!!

Congrats to you. Keep it up.

[Lady Pamela]

i admit that i smoke when i'm really stressed (you would think working out would help) and if i'm having really bad cramps... :|

i can go about 3 months without a cigarette... maybe longer...

someone informed me that if you are periodically smoking it could be a chemical imbalance??
that there may not be enough dopamine distributed in the body??

am i stating this correctly??

any thoughts??

Not giving in and allowing your body to get passed that is what you need.

Dark chocolate or other things that release feel good emotions can help for a time.

.

[Daktari]

Woohooo! Congratulations! Keep at it funkiness...nicotine and smoke free is the way to go. At a month nicotine free I bought myself a unicycle! Yup, a unicycle. It was something I'd always wanted to learn and I deserved the gift to myself. My 3rd month gift to self was another, much better specced, unicycle :cheesy:


To those starting out with an ecig. Go you :cheerleader: it's a fabulous step to take but please remember that you're not nicotine free and all that that entails; even if you feel like you feel like you've quit ciggies. I really hope y'all get it and manage to give up the cigs, real or pretend, altogether. I promise you'll enjoy the freedom from the tyranny of addiction. Your lungs, body, brain, friends, family and wallet will thank you.

Addict decides they can't use their substance of mis-use in the same way as they have done for years but don't want to give up the feeling they get from that substance. What does that addict do? Give up the 'feeling' that they're emotionally addicted to or just change the method of ingestion? If it was heroin addict what would your answer be? If the addiction is to nicotine what would your answer be?

That last paragraph wasn't 'aimed' at any of the ecig users here. It's a question I've been mulling over recently as I observe folks who're in my 'circle' of acquaintance and who tell me they're giving up smoking but are constantly puffing on an ecig and therefore not actually giving up their nicotine addiction.

I have a new tag line for ecig advertising.

"Ecigs, for the smoker who doesn't want to quit smoking" :groucho:


Ever so sorry if my mulling over of the ecig issue offends anyone, it's not intended to, just make you, and me, think.



Remember, you didn't become addicted in one day so easy does it...just one day at a time.

[funkyfemme]

CONGRATS!!!!

So what did or are you doing to celebrate and congradulate yourself on your month mark?

.

Thank you sweetie!!!!!!!!! :) :) :)

I didn't actually plan on doing anything special but I kept hearing you in the back of my head and well, I gave in. You ready for it??? I splurged and bought myself a six-pack of Fruit of the Loom undies. :| I know, I live big like that!! I have a hard time doing anything for myself but I was so in need of new panties that I threw all caution to the wind and just did it LOL. Go me! :cheerleader:

So now I will take my exciting self to the shower and look forward to putting a new, hole-less pair of cute undies on and enjoy the rest of my day and weekend!!

Well wishes to all the quitters and good luck to the one's that wanna try!! It truly is freeing and feels really good once ya beat it! :)

[funkyfemme]

Woohooo! Congratulations! Keep at it funkiness...nicotine and smoke free is the way to go. At a month nicotine free I bought myself a unicycle! Yup, a unicycle. It was something I'd always wanted to learn and I deserved the gift to myself. My 3rd month gift to self was another, much better specced, unicycle :cheesy:


To those starting out with an ecig. Go you :cheerleader: it's a fabulous step to take but please remember that you're not nicotine free and all that that entails; even if you feel like you feel like you've quit ciggies. I really hope y'all get it and manage to give up the cigs, real or pretend, altogether. I promise you'll enjoy the freedom from the tyranny of addiction. Your lungs, body, brain, friends, family and wallet will thank you.

Addict decides they can't use their substance of mis-use in the same way as they have done for years but don't want to give up the feeling they get from that substance. What does that addict do? Give up the 'feeling' that they're emotionally addicted to or just change the method of ingestion? If it was heroin addict what would your answer be? If the addiction is to nicotine what would your answer be?

That last paragraph wasn't 'aimed' at any of the ecig users here. It's a question I've been mulling over recently as I observe folks who're in my 'circle' of acquaintance and who tell me they're giving up smoking but are constantly puffing on an ecig and therefore not actually giving up their nicotine addiction.

I have a new tag line for ecig advertising.

"Ecigs, for the smoker who doesn't want to quit smoking" :groucho:


Ever so sorry if my mulling over of the ecig issue offends anyone, it's not intended to, just make you, and me, think.



Remember, you didn't become addicted in one day so easy does it...just one day at a time.

A unicycle??????? OMG I had one when I was 12 and I LOVED that thing! That's way better a present than underwear LOL!

The ecig thingy. I tried it. It lasted about two puffs. It just felt weird in my hands and felt cheesy all around (if that makes sense). *shrugs* Just wasn't for ME. My Mom's friend has one and no one should ever come between her and that thing lol. Hey, whatever works for ya!! :)

I did and I didn't want to quit smoking. I'll admit, I do love smoking and really enjoyed it. Not so sure it was the nicotine as it was just the pleasure of holding that smoke. Smoking with friends on break at work. Sharing drinks and smokes. I wasn't one of those smokers who would wake in the middle of the night and have to have one or smoke as soon as my feet hit the floor in the morning. I usually didn't smoke til after lunch or mid afternoon. I think I just really became addicted to the routine of it and the hand-to-mouth thingy. Dunno. Just me rambling. It's neither here nor there. I'm done and hope I can really stick to it this time. I have been known to be weak! LOL

Y'all have a good Friday and weekend too!! :D

[Lady Pamela]

Thank you sweetie!!!!!!!!! :) :) :)

I didn't actually plan on doing anything special but I kept hearing you in the back of my head and well, I gave in. You ready for it??? I splurged and bought myself a six-pack of Fruit of the Loom undies. :| I know, I live big like that!! I have a hard time doing anything for myself but I was so in need of new panties that I threw all caution to the wind and just did it LOL. Go me! :cheerleader:

So now I will take my exciting self to the shower and look forward to putting a new, hole-less pair of cute undies on and enjoy the rest of my day and weekend!!

Well wishes to all the quitters and good luck to the one's that wanna try!! It truly is freeing and feels really good once ya beat it! :)

Ummm whatever works for you..ha ha

But a treat is not a need..it is a splurge..smiles

Congrats all the same.
Baby steps ..I know...trust me, I really understand and know...lol

P.S.

And no holes in the panties is a good thing..ha
,

[not2shygrrl]

Eight Days ..... Check!!!



good for you Strappie !! I am happy that you have reached this point, I remember hearing from you about wanting to quit, well here you are !! Regardless of the tools you use to be successful (if any), what matters is that YOU MATTER.....and your health ! Here is to many many more days that lead into years Strap !

[not2shygrrl]

I think that if you quit something that is harmful to you, and do something that is less harmful in place of......then those are steps toward a positive outcome and a goal that each person thought out for themselves. I think no less of anyone or their will power and anything else used if you need(ed) tools to help you quit. No one way is any better than another when it comes to smoking cessation. The common ground is sufficient.

What I want to say to all the "quitters " (as i affectionately refer to us) here is GREAT for you that you are thinking about it and reading this encouraging and supportive thread........ WONDERFUL to those who are in stages from days, to weeks to months........and a GLORIOUS yaaaahhoooo :cheer: to those who working towards or close to a year and beyond!!

It is my hope that nonel of us ever give up our desire to be or continue to be non smokers......we are sooooo worth it !

Ummm, is this where I get to say : GO STEELERS !! <wink>

[Daktari]

True, any step an addict takes to reduce harm to self can only be a good thing. It's the first important step to freedom...a real freedom that ya can't pay money for.

In my experience it helps enormously to actually want to quit. I mean really want to, not just pay lip service to the notion.

I too really, really enjoyed smoking for over 35yrs; I liked it so much I handed over a lung to it. It's real hard to give up something one enjoys, believe me I know. You don't need to see the extensive list of the lovely things I've really enjoyed and ultimately had to quit because I enjoyed them a little too much...sadly.

I do know that I would have found it so much harder to quit smoking nicotine if I hadn't just had a life threatening chest infection, as a result of lung disease, as a direct result of smoking. So here I am, 48, nearly 49yrs old, with 48% lung function left...all because I really enjoyed smoking. Shit happens huh? :hangloose:

I'm also glad I quit nicotine whilst in the grips of another rather damaging addiction. I know quitting whilst sober would have been a little bit harder. Although the fear factor did play a huge part for me (see above). Wanting to breathe on a daily basis sorta does that :winky:

There ain't an easy way to do it I'm afraid though. It takes immense will-power, even when using NRT and/or other methods of symptom relief. There's no getting away from those will-power and determination thangs.

A wise person once told me; It's actually not that hard to quit something, staying quit is the hard part.

Other things in my life tell me that I am powerless over my addiction(s) and that if I don't take the first one then I won't unleash my addiction all over again. Make sense? Well, it really is that simple when you boil it all down.


Wishing ya'll successful quitting; just for today.


:tinfoil:

[not2shygrrl]

Daktari.........no truer words are spoken than the comment from your post about not having the first one. I cannot even have one ciggy or I will be buying a pack. Knowing that is so helpful for me!

[Strappie]

Woohooo! Congratulations! Keep at it funkiness...nicotine and smoke free is the way to go. At a month nicotine free I bought myself a unicycle! Yup, a unicycle. It was something I'd always wanted to learn and I deserved the gift to myself. My 3rd month gift to self was another, much better specced, unicycle :cheesy:


To those starting out with an ecig. Go you :cheerleader: it's a fabulous step to take but please remember that you're not nicotine free and all that that entails; even if you feel like you feel like you've quit ciggies. I really hope y'all get it and manage to give up the cigs, real or pretend, altogether. I promise you'll enjoy the freedom from the tyranny of addiction. Your lungs, body, brain, friends, family and wallet will thank you.

Addict decides they can't use their substance of mis-use in the same way as they have done for years but don't want to give up the feeling they get from that substance. What does that addict do? Give up the 'feeling' that they're emotionally addicted to or just change the method of ingestion? If it was heroin addict what would your answer be? If the addiction is to nicotine what would your answer be?

That last paragraph wasn't 'aimed' at any of the ecig users here. It's a question I've been mulling over recently as I observe folks who're in my 'circle' of acquaintance and who tell me they're giving up smoking but are constantly puffing on an ecig and therefore not actually giving up their nicotine addiction.

I have a new tag line for ecig advertising.

"Ecigs, for the smoker who doesn't want to quit smoking" :groucho:


Ever so sorry if my mulling over of the ecig issue offends anyone, it's not intended to, just make you, and me, think.



Remember, you didn't become addicted in one day so easy does it...just one day at a time.

To be honest it does offend me. How did you quit? Drugs/Pills, Gum, Patch...??

Quitting smoking is QUITTING any way you look at it...

I'm so sorry so MANY people can not quit COLD TURKEY. I've been smoking for 28 plus years. Quitting cold turkey is NOT an option for me unless I want to end up in jail because I have killed someone. This isn't a Joke!

I have consulted my Doctor she has put me on drugs and nothing has helped. The Patch, nicorette gum and so on. NONE have worked for me. I have major anxiety among other things when I try to quit. So if someone is using a Patch, or another form of drug to help stop them from smoking .. I say GOOD FOR YOU FOR TRYING!!! Whatever works for each person is doing something to kick this horrible habit/addiction.

I very much plan on cutting back on the dose of nicotine. But BABY STEPS is needed. I haven't had any anxiety like I have had in the past. This is dealing with the addiction one day at a time.

Good Luck to everyone any way you decide helps you!!!

[Jesse]

Just doing a drive by to show support for those who are quitting the habit.

You really can do it! :clap:

[Daktari]

To be honest it does offend me. How did you quit? Drugs/Pills, Gum, Patch...??

Quitting smoking is QUITTING any way you look at it...

I'm so sorry so MANY people can not quit COLD TURKEY. I've been smoking for 28 plus years. Quitting cold turkey is NOT an option for me unless I want to end up in jail because I have killed someone. This isn't a Joke!

I have consulted my Doctor she has put me on drugs and nothing has helped. The Patch, nicorette gum and so on. NONE have worked for me. I have major anxiety among other things when I try to quit. So if someone is using a Patch, or another form of drug to help stop them from smoking .. I say GOOD FOR YOU FOR TRYING!!! Whatever works for each person is doing something to kick this horrible habit/addiction.

I very much plan on cutting back on the dose of nicotine. But BABY STEPS is needed. I haven't had any anxiety like I have had in the past. This is dealing with the addiction one day at a time.

Good Luck to everyone any way you decide helps you!!!


Sorry if my thoughts offended you Strappie. That wasn't my intention as I said previously. I guess there's always a gap between intention and receipt of a message.

I guess we all have different perceptions of what quitting means.

Anyhoo I gave up by giving up nicotine. Flippant but true. I didn't do it cold turkey though. Actually I used Champix/Chantix, which is well documented earlier in this thread. It bonds with the nicotine receptors in your brain which in effect stops nicotine 'working' and stops making you feel better from yer nicotine 'hit'. It's sure an odd feeling but that's how it worked for me. I really do hope your method works for you and that eventually you do quit the nicotine.

I'm an ex-35yr smoker with severe lung disease as a result of my nicotine addiction and a desire to save anyone else suffering my fate...cuz believe me it sucks big style. Me Bad!

Again, my apologies for any offense taken.

[Strappie]

Sorry if my thoughts offended you Strappie. That wasn't my intention as I said previously. I guess there's always a gap between intention and receipt of a message.

I guess we all have different perceptions of what quitting means.

Anyhoo I gave up by giving up nicotine. Flippant but true. I didn't do it cold turkey though. Actually I used Champix/Chantix, which is well documented earlier in this thread. It bonds with the nicotine receptors in your brain which in effect stops nicotine 'working' and stops making you feel better from yer nicotine 'hit'. It's sure an odd feeling but that's how it worked for me. I really do hope your method works for you and that eventually you do quit the nicotine.

I'm an ex-35yr smoker with severe lung disease as a result of my nicotine addiction and a desire to save anyone else suffering my fate...cuz believe me it sucks big style. Me Bad!

Again, my apologies for any offense taken.


Chantix did not work for me. I had night tares and suicidal thoughts, hence why I got off that. I've tried other meds also. I had side effects with them also. I'm not and haven't been a pill taker. So for me it wasn't the answer.

It worked for you! I'm happy for you!! Why is a PILL any different than any other way people quit smoking cigarettes? Cig's have tar and other scary things mixed into it. They compare cigarette smoking to smoking heroin, it's just as addicting.

My mother quit 25 yrs ago, her Doctor looked at her lungs before she quit and they told her it was bad. After 6 months of quitting (the patch) her lungs improved 40% that's huge in 6 months. Now can you tell me that the patch is bad idea because she didn't "quit the nicotine?".... No she quit Smoking, period!

I'm happy to hear you are smoke free and your health is improving!

[Daktari]

Thanks, but sadly my lungs will never improve. That's the point. The smoke and nicotine damaged them, on my behalf because I did it willingly, beyond repair. That's the nature of degenerative lung disease I'm afraid. I was one of those folks who thought it would never happen to me, no-one expects to get lung disease do they? I ask folks I know in person if they're prepared to take the risk of not being able to trot across the road or walk into town whenever they need or want to. Whether they're prepared to take the risk of having to live with a nebulizer and possibly a portable oxygen tank whilst they're still relatively 'young'. That's the reality of such illnesses. No lie, no joke. :|

I don't think I've ever said that NRTs (nicotine replacement therapies) and other symptom relief methods are not useful tools, I think they're invaluable... when used with an end in sight.

There are recommended times to take/use these things because we addicts tend not to want to reduce our intake if left to our own devices. That's what I'm like anyway.

On this last time of trying to quit I finally did as was recommended (did as I was repeatedly told in other words) and took the Champix exactly as recommended for 12 weeks (the first two smoking as is recommended). It really helped to make myself accountable to others and started my own quitting thread on a UK BF site. I posted every day without fail, the good and the bad of quitting, also took on board some handy hints and tips from folks who'd already quit successfully.

I know what made this final quit work and that was I wanted it; wanted it soooo damn bad that I resolved to deal with all the difficulties in social situations, the sitting at the computer not chain smoking, being with friends and not wanting to stop them indulging in their addictions, the extreme levels of anxiety and murderous irritability with patience and will-power. No amount of tablets, NRTs or positive words could replace it...for me anyway and something which continues on a daily basis as most folks I know smoke. Especially at those damn meetings for addicts who've given up the other lovely drugs :sigh:

Anyhoo, this isn't about me but about you and your quit. I understand why you might feel a little defensive about your method of quitting in the light of my thinking-out-loud rambling about the ecig 'phenomenon'. It was probably the wrong time for my rambles and I shall be more mindful of that and probably take it away from this thread. Please know that I wasn't and am not judging you.

I really do wish you all the luck in the world, it's a fabbalus journey to start and you're right, baby steps are necessary and believe it not I'm in there rooting for ya, just like I am for anyone giving up, whichever method they use. I hope you turn those baby steps to strides.

Remember folks, if you don't take the first one...you know the rest!


:tinfoil:

[not2shygrrl]

Never fear........this thread is still here..... for all who want to read words of encouragement, and/or need some support in choosing to quit smoking or thinking about it. Some of you are in different stages of having quit.....good for you in your decision and keeping up the status as a non smoker and for those who have quit in other ways.....good for you that no longer are you inhaling that toxic smoke! As I like to say.........be a proud quitter ! <wink>

[iddiggchiks]

I realize quittting smoking is healthy for me and has many many pluses but it pisses me off that I have to quit. Today is day number 1-hopefully there will be a day 10 or 24!

[funkyfemme]

I realize quittting smoking is healthy for me and has many many pluses but it pisses me off that I have to quit. Today is day number 1-hopefully there will be a day 10 or 24!

You can do this!!! Today is day 42 for me. I think I've got a handle on it but I'm not getting too confident just yet. Like, right now, I'd LOVE to go sit on the deck with my coffee and have a quiet, peaceful smoke. But I know I can't. Sooooooo I'll just do something to get my mind off it and keep on keeping on. That's what works for me.

Wishing you lots of luck!! Lady Pamela should be along any time now with her words that are so encouraging!! She always says just the right thing!

:)

[Lady Pamela]

No I am not missing in action..lol
And I am still going strong and on the ride..smiles

Sorry been in the hospital and kickin ass getting better..or trying atleast..ha

Congrats to all the people who have been doing so well and truely kicken butt!!
Way to go! And so proud of you.

This battle has truely been one of the hardest I have ever done.
Today while I was standing waiting for the train, I had a very hard time with a smoker next to me.
I wish I would have realized how hard I made it on those trying to quit.
I just thought they were being mean when they spoke out, Ya know what I mean?

The smell is everywhere you go.
That is why this addiction is so damn hard.
But also why it is so huge and should be done with much pride.

Please don't forget how incredible you are.
And how amazing what you are doing truely is.

Celebrate your month and year marks.
This is such a beautiful time to validate to yourself how much respect and care you have for yourself.

I know it is hard for some to do.
But the reward in itself creates new doors to be explored.
And leaves behind all the times you kicked your ass with negative thoughts.


Anyway, I know I am long winded.
But today was such an incredible eye opening day for me.

Be good to yourself and stay on the ride!!!

Namaste


.

[Lady Pamela]

Chantix did not work for me. I had night tares and suicidal thoughts, hence why I got off that. I've tried other meds also. I had side effects with them also. I'm not and haven't been a pill taker. So for me it wasn't the answer.

It worked for you! I'm happy for you!! Why is a PILL any different than any other way people quit smoking cigarettes? Cig's have tar and other scary things mixed into it. They compare cigarette smoking to smoking heroin, it's just as addicting.

My mother quit 25 yrs ago, her Doctor looked at her lungs before she quit and they told her it was bad. After 6 months of quitting (the patch) her lungs improved 40% that's huge in 6 months. Now can you tell me that the patch is bad idea because she didn't "quit the nicotine?".... No she quit Smoking, period!

I'm happy to hear you are smoke free and your health is improving!

I just got back and read past posts a little.
Thought I would say a few things, Take them or leave them.

I have to say I admire anyone who has even given quitting an attempt.
As for what works and does not work is tottally a personal joureny as well.

No person should judge another based on how they quit or what they do to do so.

I took 2 or three times as long as most do to finally quit.
But for me, it was the only way.
I used many methods together. As you can read in previous posts.
And if drugs would have been an option for me, probably would have done those as well.


The point behind quitting is be true to you.
Do what you need to stop.
And find people who support you in doing that.

I am telling you this,
I am standing behind you and anyone wanting to stop.

And am truely thankful to you for adding this thread/post.

Keep up the great work and if I can help at all let me know.

.

[macele]

I realize quittting smoking is healthy for me and has many many pluses but it pisses me off that I have to quit. Today is day number 1-hopefully there will be a day 10 or 24!


it will be 4 months october the 4th. i still want a smoke, badly. i too, am pissed off because i can't have one lol. there's an anger. very angry. i want one so bad. but i can't let me myself have that 1st one. can't do it. i have to be strong. iddiggchiks, i hope you'll be strong with me. we have to. and everybody else <high 5>.

[iddiggchiks]

been 3 days now and i'm ready to say eff it but i'm holding strong--

[iddiggchiks]

well i failed and i cheated---just had to smoke on long car ride and i know i disappointed a few people but i vow to start over and do my best--

[macele]

that's so hard, ... to ride and not smoke. i have a smokey mountains (no pun intended lol) vacation coming up and dread the ride, ... because i know i'll want to smoke. in other words, i'm letting a cigarette ruin my looking forward to.

get back on the "wagon" iddiggchiks! it's hard. understood. you can do it.

[Lady Pamela]

well i failed and i cheated---just had to smoke on long car ride and i know i disappointed a few people but i vow to start over and do my best--

Thank goodness I am not judged by how many tries it has taken me...lol

Do not kick your ass. Simply start again and go with it.

Try some new ideas...tons in this thread.
Hell, mix and match em if need be.

Just keep getting up and doing it.
I know you can do it!

[Lady Pamela]

that's so hard, ... to ride and not smoke. i have a smokey mountains (no pun intended lol) vacation coming up and dread the ride, ... because i know i'll want to smoke. in other words, i'm letting a cigarette ruin my looking forward to.

get back on the "wagon" iddiggchiks! it's hard. understood. you can do it.

To be honest with you,
when I was smoking I based everything with my next smoke.

Made sure I could smoke , where to smoke, if others smoked, time i had to go without smokes etc etc.

That is a normal fear of quitting honestly.

Cinnomon sticks cinnomon gum and things to do with your hands and deep breaths helps that quite a bit.

also using some sort of aide like patches etc

Keep it up you can do it.
.

[Lady Pamela]

Officially :

I AM

http://www.bridalbuds.com/wp-content/uploads/eight.jpg

SMOKE FREE!!


Actually it isn't for another hour and change. but wanted to get it out there before I went to bed..lol

Sorry had to shout...smiles
Damn proud of myself.
Still have hard days but much less.


namatse to all.
Keep it up!

[Lady Pamela]

Ok its the 4th..lol
smiles


http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss20/emape33/SittingEightBallCards.png

http://www.stickergiant.com/Merchant2/imgs/450/aad995_450.jpeg

[funkyfemme]

Ok its the 4th..lol
smiles


http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss20/emape33/SittingEightBallCards.png

http://www.stickergiant.com/Merchant2/imgs/450/aad995_450.jpeg

~*~*~*~ AWESOMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE *~*~*~*~

:bunchflowers: :bunchflowers: :bunchflowers:

:happyjump:


You're a rock star, LP!!! So proud of you and so glad you're here to support the rest of us quitters!! You are such an inspiration with your encouraging words and heartfelt thoughts. :)

Warm squishy hugs to you on your eighth month!!

So tell us, what did YOU do for YOURSELF to celebrate???????

[Lady Pamela]

~*~*~*~ AWESOMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE *~*~*~*~

:bunchflowers: :bunchflowers: :bunchflowers:

:happyjump:


You're a rock star, LP!!! So proud of you and so glad you're here to support the rest of us quitters!! You are such an inspiration with your encouraging words and heartfelt thoughts. :)

Warm squishy hugs to you on your eighth month!!

So tell us, what did YOU do for YOURSELF to celebrate???????



Thank you!

[Justin]

OMG why cant I just pick a day to do this already !!!!!

[chefhmboyrd]

i quit smoking for over 10 years...
then one day i started back up, those damn clove smokes reeled me in...
i was on and off again for a couple of years, and finally was inspired by none other than MaggieBluIze that inspired me to quit the last time....
i have been smoke free since. G-spot quit about the same time...

it is so much easier when you are around people that support you and don't smoke as well...


(i know there is a cigar in my signature, and i do love a good stoggie, but i haven't even had one of those since either)

[macele]

i can chew gum. patch. keep my hands busy. etc etc. ...

i can do all that and it helps. but that's it, just helps. ...

it's all about will power. it's me that has to do it and say no. ...

first, i have to say no and mean it. then i can get help from all the other places.

my quit date is june 4, 2012.

i am addicted. i love to smoke. like pamela said, most of my life lived to smoke.

i will always be addicted. but i'm mad as hell and smoking is not going to rule me.

[macele]

what i should have said was, all of the aids help. but if i don't have the will power to quit, ... and stay quit, ... i won't. regards of help.

use the help button when you (and i) need it.

[Lady Pamela]

OMG why cant I just pick a day to do this already !!!!!

I suggest when it is this hard..like it was for myself..ha

To simply slow down and smoke less.
Get it to a half pack and even change to a not so loved brand of smokes..or rolled ones..smiles

Then set the date when a half pack becomes normalized.

It is better to do it right and complete.
Than to keep kicken your butt about it.

There is no wrong or right method.

But remember, there are lots of people here to support you in your journey.

.

[Miss Scarlett]

Gotta confess that recent overwhelming stress led me to buying 2 packs earlier this week...i don't really like smoking...they taste nasty and make me smell bad too...as i am too cheap to just throw them away i plan to not buy any more and quit again when this last pack (i just opened) is finished...

[Lady Pamela]

Gotta confess that recent overwhelming stress led me to buying 2 packs earlier this week...i don't really like smoking...they taste nasty and make me smell bad too...as i am too cheap to just throw them away i plan to not buy any more and quit again when this last pack (i just opened) is finished...

I still have my last pack..lol
Just because..lol

It isn't to smoke them but to serve as a mind set.
I am never without, just choose not to.

LOL

[Daktari]

I still have my last pack..lol
Just because..lol

It isn't to smoke them but to serve as a mind set.
I am never without, just choose not to.

LOL

I still have the last part of the last packet of tobacco I bought and some 'skins'...it's in the same bag it's been in for 2 and half years.


Keep it up everyone, just takes some getting the hang of.

Keep the faith :tinfoil:

[Lady Pamela]

I know it is a stop smoking thread but had to share this all the same...smiles

Very humble today as I celebrate 20 years clen from drugs.
May I be blessed, guided and humbled to continue this lifes quest!
As I step in to today, may I always be reminded of yesterdays hardships. And know that this very minute I have a choice to do anything. May I forever remember that lost scared woman who couldn't think. And choose to achieve and help pick others up instead of pull them down.This is my prayer and wish.

Sending out love and light to all who supported my journey and all that will.
Namaste
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcpPz4vINMs/UDIPqv3zd5I/AAAAAAAAALk/LIomN6xibpQ/s1600/20year.jpg
Last year in a thread I realized I wrote the date wrong..ooops..smiles Today is actually my 20th...must have got excited..grinz

[Daktari]

Huge congrats on your 20th year LP.

Keep coming back, more will be revealed :raspberry:

[DapperButch]

I still have my last pack..lol
Just because..lol

It isn't to smoke them but to serve as a mind set.
I am never without, just choose not to.

LOL

I still have the last part of the last packet of tobacco I bought and some 'skins'...it's in the same bag it's been in for 2 and half years.


Keep it up everyone, just takes some getting the hang of.

Keep the faith :tinfoil:

I knew someone who kept a new pack of smokes in their glovebox. For me, having them around would have been too tempting in a moment of frustration/worry/etc., but I understand how it works for many people.

I know it is a stop smoking thread but had to share this all the same...smiles

Very humble today as I celebrate 20 years clen from drugs.
May I be blessed, guided and humbled to continue this lifes quest!
As I step in to today, may I always be reminded of yesterdays hardships. And know that this very minute I have a choice to do anything. May I forever remember that lost scared woman who couldn't think. And choose to achieve and help pick others up instead of pull them down.This is my prayer and wish.

Sending out love and light to all who supported my journey and all that will.
Namaste
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcpPz4vINMs/UDIPqv3zd5I/AAAAAAAAALk/LIomN6xibpQ/s1600/20year.jpg
Last year in a thread I realized I wrote the date wrong..ooops..smiles Today is actually my 20th...must have got excited..grinz

Congrats! I am glad that you shared this with us!

[Lady Pamela]

I want to thank you for your wonderful support.

May you feel the same from me...smiles

Namaste

[not2shygrrl]

I know it is a stop smoking thread but had to share this all the same...smiles

Very humble today as I celebrate 20 years clen from drugs.
May I be blessed, guided and humbled to continue this lifes quest!
As I step in to today, may I always be reminded of yesterdays hardships. And know that this very minute I have a choice to do anything. May I forever remember that lost scared woman who couldn't think. And choose to achieve and help pick others up instead of pull them down.This is my prayer and wish.

Sending out love and light to all who supported my journey and all that will.
Namaste
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcpPz4vINMs/UDIPqv3zd5I/AAAAAAAAALk/LIomN6xibpQ/s1600/20year.jpg
Last year in a thread I realized I wrote the date wrong..ooops..smiles Today is actually my 20th...must have got excited..grinz


Kudos to you LP, for choosing such positives in your life that have become realities for you. (((hugs))) for your first 20 years my dear! I wish you strength for another 20 <wink>.

[not2shygrrl]

Officially :

I AM

http://www.bridalbuds.com/wp-content/uploads/eight.jpg

SMOKE FREE!!


Actually it isn't for another hour and change. but wanted to get it out there before I went to bed..lol

Sorry had to shout...smiles
Damn proud of myself.
Still have hard days but much less.


namatse to all.
Keep it up!



I love that you are gaining strength in this smoking cessation!! LP, I have said it before and will continue to say this.....I am proud of you, there is nothing better to tell your self how much you love your self by making healthy choices!! *unless it is a piece of homemade cherry pie !* that totally says I LOVE ME ! <wink> No matter your choices LP, you and I..... we are connected here my friend. You have my respect, knowing it is not easy at times and yet you continue! You have my gratitude, knowing what you are going through reminds/reinforces me and my choices 3 years ago or so. TY .......for being present. :)


Now all you other quitters......you peeps rock! It is reading your trials and tribulations here that touch others, inspire others, and the impact may never be known to you.....but know that successes happen because of the encouragement and support here lend that extra oommppffhh to people who may need it. Getting past those moments have lent to the success stories here and more successes to come! So happy you all are working towards this. :)

[Lady Pamela]

Kudos to you LP, for choosing such positives in your life that have become realities for you. (((hugs))) for your first 20 years my dear! I wish you strength for another 20 <wink>.

Smiles thank you so much for both congrats.

And I would love another 20 to 30..smiles

[Strappie]

53 Days Smoke Free...

[Lady Pamela]

53 Days Smoke Free...

That is fabulious...so happy and proud of you.
Keep up the good work..smiles

That is so awesome.

[Lady Pamela]

Wishing everyone a safe and spooky,
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!


http://strikepill.com/shots/Happy-Saint-Halloween-Clock/animated-pictures-happy-halloween-feast-day/bats_at_moon_happy-halloween.gif

[macele]

it has been 177 days since i smoked a smoke and i've been having a hard time lately, ... wanting one. there's that something inside me that says, ... go on, smoke one. you've worked hard. you deserve it.

i know that's like the "devil" talking to me LOL.

i'm not going to smoke one!

[Bella~Vita]

I'm into my 5th day without a cigarette. It's not much but I'm truly trying. :praying:

[Lady Pamela]

it has been 177 days since i smoked a smoke and i've been having a hard time lately, ... wanting one. there's that something inside me that says, ... go on, smoke one. you've worked hard. you deserve it.

i know that's like the "devil" talking to me LOL.

i'm not going to smoke one!

Congrats to you for choosing yourself over the smokes...smiles
That Is way awesome!

Yes it is your mind trying to trick you..don't give in..your more than that.

Proud of you..grins

[Lady Pamela]

I'm into my 5th day without a cigarette. It's not much but I'm truly trying. :praying:

I beg to differ..5 days is incredible!
And a wonderful start to a lifetime without smoke and breething.

Also a hell of a start to showing yourself that your more important than a ciggarrette and that you value your body.

Way to go!!!
Hope to keep reading your posts.

.

[Lady Pamela]

http://gifs.gifmania.hk/Animated-Gifs-Animated-Letters/Animations-Infant-Letters/Images-Green-Dolls-Alphabet/green-doll-number-9.gif

Way proud of myself today for this moment.

Doin the happy dance today for month 9 marker.


So proud of you all as well. Keep it up!
And thank you for such an incredible support system.


.

[Bella~Vita]

http://gifs.gifmania.hk/Animated-Gifs-Animated-Letters/Animations-Infant-Letters/Images-Green-Dolls-Alphabet/green-doll-number-9.gif

Way proud of myself today for this moment.

Doin the happy dance today for month 9 marker.


So proud of you all as well. Keep it up!
And thank you for such an incredible support system.


.



Congratulations Lady Pam , I must admit I cracked but 5 days was a start . Now, I'm so disappointed in myself. But, I know I will try again ...

[Lady Pamela]

Congratulations Lady Pam , I must admit I cracked but 5 days was a start . Now, I'm so disappointed in myself. But, I know I will try again ...

First of all, kicking your ass will do nothing to move you forward.
Just start again and keep doing so till you do it.

I suggest you read way back on here...so many great ideas on things to do .
that you may or may not have tried.

keep it up!


And thanks for the congrats.


.

[macele]

i dreamed that i smoked last night. i could taste it! ahhh it was good lol. then in the dream, the feelings a cigarette will make happen in your chest, ... tight, congested. awful.

so we get help from all sorts of places, ... even dreams.

[Lady Pamela]

i dreamed that i smoked last night. i could taste it! ahhh it was good lol. then in the dream, the feelings a cigarette will make happen in your chest, ... tight, congested. awful.

so we get help from all sorts of places, ... even dreams.

User dreams SUCK! Just sayin...smiles


And thanks for the well wishes,reps and congrats on my 9th month smoke free today.


.

[StillettoDoll]

http://www.kansasfamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Great-American-Smokeout-e1352145690911.jpg

[jac]

I laid them down "again" yesterday. Only the umpteenth time in the last 30 years.

:praying: Let this time be for good...

[jac]

http://www.kansasfamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Great-American-Smokeout-e1352145690911.jpg

Wow!! And I hadn't even seen this before I posted. Perfect timing I guess!! :vigil:

[DapperButch]

I laid them down "again" yesterday. Only the umpteenth time in the last 30 years.

:praying: Let this time be for good...

Yee Haw! You can do it! Post here and post often!!!!

[Lady Pamela]

I laid them down "again" yesterday. Only the umpteenth time in the last 30 years.

:praying: Let this time be for good...

Took me a lot of tries before I was able to do it.
Point is, just keep trying and fake it till you make it!
Seriously.
Way cool.

[Lady Pamela]

Just thought I would stop in and tell everyone hello...smiles

Also wanted to share a few smoking facts as food for thought.
Below is the link...seriously check it out.

BTW, Whale vomit and urine are in the smokes we all have been smoking ..just to give you a couple of things.

Take a look.


Keep it up to those of you who are still smoke free!


http://facts.randomhistory.com/2009/02/17_smoking.html



.

[GraffitiBoi]

I'm still struggling with quitting. I use an ecig and occasionally I will use a patch instead... but neither breaks the habit. It's not really the nicotine that is making it hard... it's what I do to pass time when I'm on a break or driving and it's what I do when I need to think... pace and smoke... and so I pick up a cigarette... I think I may be done with them completely this weekend though. It feels like it's time. Plus, the money I'm saving by not buying cigs is awesome! ($5.50 per day)

[macele]

you know i still don't want to go to a place that doesn't allow smoking LOL. like say to a hospital. i smoked for so long, ... i still think i'm going to have to do without one for a long time or find a place to hide and smoke. and that "don't shut me up" feeling.

smoke-free 179 days.

[Lady Pamela]

I'm still struggling with quitting. I use an ecig and occasionally I will use a patch instead... but neither breaks the habit. It's not really the nicotine that is making it hard... it's what I do to pass time when I'm on a break or driving and it's what I do when I need to think... pace and smoke... and so I pick up a cigarette... I think I may be done with them completely this weekend though. It feels like it's time. Plus, the money I'm saving by not buying cigs is awesome! ($5.50 per day)

I suggest doing thhing diffrent like I did. At first atleast.

Cut down 2 at a time untill your down to 8 or less smokes.
Smoke when your not craving only.
Don't smoke where or when you feel the need.
Smoke against the habit times.

Use the strong patches.
Use cinnomon sticks for the hand to mouth.
Chew cinnomon gum to clean the pallet
drink non sweetened greatfruit juice..hold in mouth for a bit when craving is bad.

don't forget to take your normal 5 minute breaks..just do them breathing etc
they help you to adjust and re ground yourself.

also changing to a brand you really do not care for helps.

[Lady Pamela]

you know i still don't want to go to a place that doesn't allow smoking LOL. like say to a hospital. i smoked for so long, ... i still think i'm going to have to do without one for a long time or find a place to hide and smoke. and that "don't shut me up" feeling.

smoke-free 179 days.

WAY AWESOME...SO PROUD OF YOU!!

Now I surely can relate to what you said...as a matter of gact, I love the smell of fresh smoke still..but not old smoke.

However now that I am close to my 10 month mark, I can frequent hospitals and non smoking places without panick...ha

Keep up the great work.

[PaPa]

I just wanted to post in here that my last cigarette was September 27th. I purchased the Electronic Blu Cig online and paid a total of $160 for a bunch of cartridges, the starter pack and a couple extra batteries. Within a month and a half I am completely nicotine free. I do believe it is one of the best investments I have made in my life. I am very grateful to not have to be enslaved to tobacco. Some days I craved it very badly, but I will say by distracting I was able to thwart the urge and remain free from it. Another thing I kept telling myself when the urge hit was that I would hate myself if I did use because I knew I really wanted this. One cigarette was not worth the self-loathing I would feel afterwards. I am not saying others must be tobacco free, but I will say the benefits far outweight the risks. I hope those who really want this monkey off their back are able to do that and if anyone wants to talk about what worked for me I am always available and willing to help.

[grenade]

I am 6 and a half months smoke free. I rarely have cravings anymore. It was just my time to quit. Good luck to all. *hugs*

[macele]

i still crave. i really do. i'm still somewhat in bondage. but my addiction is strong. i smoked 2 packs a day and loved every one. like papa says, i tell myself it's not worth it to smoke one. not even one. you know we are all going to die one day, but i told myself back in june, not this way.

i'm proud of all the quitters! this is a good thing to quit lol. stay strong. have a place or thought that you can go back to in your mind that will remind you of why you quit. i have my place, and it reminds me, ... not this way.

[Lady Pamela]

http://thermblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/10Ten.jpg
Months
Smoke Free Today...
SMILES!!!!!

[Lady Pamela]

Just stopping in to say hi and see how everyone is doing?

[Greyson]

Hi and good luck to each and every one of you. I am an ex-smoker. I have been off cigs for a few years now. For many years, I was able to smoke a cigarette only when I went out to clubs. I don't dabble any longer. Before that I picked up smoking cigarettes as a teen and was a regular smoker off and on from my mid thirties to Fifty. I am most grateful to be cig free now.

I really came in here to say, I lost a friend a couple of days ago to lung cancer. She was a beautiful, talented femme artist. I met her about 28 years ago and she died in her early fifties. Too young in my book. For some of us it does catch up. Please if you are still smoking, keep trying to quit. Don't give up.

[jac]

The 12th will be my one month mark... I know I won't give into the cravings but they are some kind of intense these days. Stressing over finances and around the holidays makes for a really tough cry to give into the evils of those damn sticks. My health has been wacked here lately and there is just no way I could even inhale the stuff... hell, I can barely inhale a breath as it is.

Still doesn't change the fact that I'm craving... :sigh:

[Ms. Meander]

I have quit again. It's been just over 24hrs and I'm reaching the stage where I want to cry and pull my hair out. It doesn't help that I am totally hormonal, as well.

But I really want this. It is time. It is the last vestige of the old, unhealthy me that remains. I am a healer, for crying out loud. I can't be putting my smokey hands on people and preaching about their health with my smokey breath. Makes no sense. But addiction rarely does. My reckoning is here. I'm ready for it - regardless of the fit I'm about to have. :seeingstars:

[macele]

The 12th will be my one month mark... I know I won't give into the cravings but they are some kind of intense these days. Stressing over finances and around the holidays makes for a really tough cry to give into the evils of those damn sticks. My health has been wacked here lately and there is just no way I could even inhale the stuff... hell, I can barely inhale a breath as it is.

Still doesn't change the fact that I'm craving... :sigh:



hey stone. i think we come to a place where we just quit. a brick wall. whatever it takes for you not to smoke, ... reach out and use that resource(s). i quit cold, and i've gained too much weight lol. but i haven't had a smoke in 6 months. the cravings haven't gone away, ... but less. the bottom line for me is i don't want to die a smoker. smoking kills. my lungs are damaged, yes. but smoking does just as much damage to your heart. for me, more so to my heart at this stage in my life.

you can do it. i believe in you.

mac

[macele]

I have quit again. It's been just over 24hrs and I'm reaching the stage where I want to cry and pull my hair out. It doesn't help that I am totally hormonal, as well.

But I really want this. It is time. It is the last vestige of the old, unhealthy me that remains. I am a healer, for crying out loud. I can't be putting my smokey hands on people and preaching about their health with my smokey breath. Makes no sense. But addiction rarely does. My reckoning is here. I'm ready for it - regardless of the fit I'm about to have. :seeingstars:



hey ms. do what you gotta do. scream, yell at folks lol. so what, it's tough. keep your hands busy. stay on the quittin' side! :rrose:

mac

[Ms. Meander]

OhMyGod!OhMyGod!OhMyGod!

Ok ---- just venting. Thanks.

[DapperButch]

I really came in here to say, I lost a friend a couple of days ago to lung cancer. She was a beautiful, talented femme artist. I met her about 28 years ago and she died in her early fifties. Too young in my book. For some of us it does catch up. Please if you are still smoking, keep trying to quit. Don't give up.

Yes, it does. My father was 26 years quit and healthy and active. Diagnosed with lung cancer and dead within 8 days.

Sobering.

Quit now. Don't give up.

[Lady Pamela]

The 12th will be my one month mark... I know I won't give into the cravings but they are some kind of intense these days. Stressing over finances and around the holidays makes for a really tough cry to give into the evils of those damn sticks. My health has been wacked here lately and there is just no way I could even inhale the stuff... hell, I can barely inhale a breath as it is.

Still doesn't change the fact that I'm craving... :sigh:


So excited for you...way to go !

[Lady Pamela]

I have quit again. It's been just over 24hrs and I'm reaching the stage where I want to cry and pull my hair out. It doesn't help that I am totally hormonal, as well.

But I really want this. It is time. It is the last vestige of the old, unhealthy me that remains. I am a healer, for crying out loud. I can't be putting my smokey hands on people and preaching about their health with my smokey breath. Makes no sense. But addiction rarely does. My reckoning is here. I'm ready for it - regardless of the fit I'm about to have. :seeingstars:

You can do it...alot of breathing breaks...read all the awesome ideas in this thread as well.

And keep posting...smile

[Ms. Meander]

Approaching the 72hr mark. It's hard. They say to identify your triggers and make changes around those but I find this impossible. There are too many. Mornings and late nights are hardest for me. I think because I am sleepy and my defenses are lessened. Last night, after I went to bed, I was craving so hard that I said "fuck it" and actually got up and dressed, bundled up and went out toward the car with intention to go buy some. I stood there with keys in hand, hesitated and agonized, then went back inside and took off my shoes and coat. Then I put them back on and did the same thing two more times before I finally came back in and put myself back to bed, having not smoked.

Having not smoked.

I am a non-smoker. I can do this. I release all of my attachments to addiction and all the emotions, insecurities, and anxieties that I associate with quitting.
:praying:

[Ms. Meander]

I slipped. Just a little, and I am ready to recommit. I am not much of one for beating myself up when I am imperfect because that really doesn't help - took me a long time to learn that. But I do think it is important to keep myself accountable for the commitment I've made to myself. So I thought I'd come here and "say it out loud".

I am committed to being a non-smoker. I have the strength and ability to overcome my addiction starting right now.

[Sachita]

I slipped. Just a little, and I am ready to recommit. I am not much of one for beating myself up when I am imperfect because that really doesn't help - took me a long time to learn that. But I do think it is important to keep myself accountable for the commitment I've made to myself. So I thought I'd come here and "say it out loud".

I am committed to being a non-smoker. I have the strength and ability to overcome my addiction starting right now.

You can do it. I slip now and then. I'll light up and think "wtf am I doing?" I stop. You just need to get past the first week. You will smell better and you'll look better. Let vanity kick in too

[uglyboi]

Approaching the 72hr mark. It's hard. They say to identify your triggers and make changes around those but I find this impossible. There are too many. Mornings and late nights are hardest for me. I think because I am sleepy and my defenses are lessened. Last night, after I went to bed, I was craving so hard that I said "fuck it" and actually got up and dressed, bundled up and went out toward the car with intention to go buy some. I stood there with keys in hand, hesitated and agonized, then went back inside and took off my shoes and coat. Then I put them back on and did the same thing two more times before I finally came back in and put myself back to bed, having not smoked.

Having not smoked.

I am a non-smoker. I can do this. I release all of my attachments to addiction and all the emotions, insecurities, and anxieties that I associate with quitting.
:praying:


You got this!! I quit 1 year and 1 day ago!! It is possible even if it makes us do the most bizarre things. :) It gets easier!! Don't anyone of you give up!!!! That means you to Strappolina!

[Lady Pamela]

I slipped. Just a little, and I am ready to recommit. I am not much of one for beating myself up when I am imperfect because that really doesn't help - took me a long time to learn that. But I do think it is important to keep myself accountable for the commitment I've made to myself. So I thought I'd come here and "say it out loud".

I am committed to being a non-smoker. I have the strength and ability to overcome my addiction starting right now.

I guess I tried probably 50 times before I found what worked for me..you will do this.

Cut down before you go cold turkey..re read idea through this thread.
I know you can and will do this.

[TickledPink]

I quit 9 months ago!! I can't believe I quit, yet I find it really hard to believe I ever smoked. I hate the smell and the taste! Go figure :vigil:

You would think I would have quit sooner. My mother passed away in 2006 from lung cancer.

Good luck to all, you/we can do this!!!!!

[Ms. Meander]

I guess I tried probably 50 times before I found what worked for me..you will do this.

Cut down before you go cold turkey..re read idea through this thread.
I know you can and will do this.



This is my 50th time! I was quit for a the year 2009, and for 6 weeks last winter (taught myself to crochet!), and numerous less successful times before, in between, and since. I've cut down from a pack a day, to half a pack, to 1/3. I've got so many tools and coping skills in my arsenal, it's ridiculous. And I'm a little embarrassed - but that's why I'm talking about it. Shame has no place here, and it will just make me want to smoke more. This is totally a psychological issue for me. I've done so much growth and healing, but cigarettes have been my only constant since I was a teenager. Even though I hate smoking, it's like the death of a beloved friend. There. I said it. It's really feels that dramatic. Maybe I need to allow myself to grieve the loss of this companion that saw me through so much, while recognizing I don't need it anymore, and letting go...

[DapperButch]

This is totally a psychological issue for me. I've done so much growth and healing, but cigarettes have been my only constant since I was a teenager. Even though I hate smoking, it's like the death of a beloved friend. There. I said it. It's really feels that dramatic. Maybe I need to allow myself to grieve the loss of this companion that saw me through so much, while recognizing I don't need it anymore, and letting go...

Absolutely. There is a huge and real loss of a companion when you quit smoking. Smoking is your buddy, he is with you all the time.

I know for me there was a loss of identity too. Part of my identity was being a smoker. This was not somthing I was ashamed of, either.

It has been a bit over 3 years since I have quit. I still miss it. I LOVE the smell of smoke (in the air, not on people). A friend of mine was helping me change my brakes this past weekend and he had a cig. in his mouth when he reached over to help me with something on the rotor. The smell was delightful!

Hell yeah, I miss it!

[Lady Pamela]

This is my 50th time! I was quit for a the year 2009, and for 6 weeks last winter (taught myself to crochet!), and numerous less successful times before, in between, and since. I've cut down from a pack a day, to half a pack, to 1/3. I've got so many tools and coping skills in my arsenal, it's ridiculous. And I'm a little embarrassed - but that's why I'm talking about it. Shame has no place here, and it will just make me want to smoke more. This is totally a psychological issue for me. I've done so much growth and healing, but cigarettes have been my only constant since I was a teenager. Even though I hate smoking, it's like the death of a beloved friend. There. I said it. It's really feels that dramatic. Maybe I need to allow myself to grieve the loss of this companion that saw me through so much, while recognizing I don't need it anymore, and letting go...

My every move used to be centered around such companion...I would not go places or do things if that meant no smoking. Seriously.

[Lady Pamela]

http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/231743-47524-42.jpg

Celebrated my 11th month smoke free today...smiles

I know to some it may be silly to do so but today I officially have not smoked aprox. 13,200 ciggarretts.

And have started to regenerate some damage I have done.


.

[Jesse]

Today, January 5th I celebrate two full years of being a non-smoker! :clap:
I smoked for many years and thought that I would never be able to quit. I think what helped me the most was, before I tried to quit I thought a lot about when I started smoking and what the real reason(s) were that I began in the first place...trying to fit in with "the crowd", wanting to be grown, it was cool back then to smoke, feeling a lack of control in one's life, whatever. Everyone has different reasons. Once I realized what mine was, and told myself the truth, the actual quitting became much easier for me. I also had to get to the point where I truly wanted to stop smoking. Like I said, it's different for each of us. Sometimes I still can't believe I did it.

Congrats to everyone who is still working on, or even thinking about quitting! If this is something that you really want, then it will be yours.

[jac]

With all my medical stuff creeping up on me, I am asked quite regularly, when I last smoked. I've had a couple of professionals say to me that they think with all that's going on, this will more than likely be my last time fighting it.

Yeh, I have to agree... it's just not worth the hassle when it comes to all the negatives it's brought about to my body.

Two months now for me!

[GreeneyedMe]

This is my 50th time! I was quit for a the year 2009, and for 6 weeks last winter (taught myself to crochet!), and numerous less successful times before, in between, and since. I've cut down from a pack a day, to half a pack, to 1/3. I've got so many tools and coping skills in my arsenal, it's ridiculous. And I'm a little embarrassed - but that's why I'm talking about it. Shame has no place here, and it will just make me want to smoke more. This is totally a psychological issue for me. I've done so much growth and healing, but cigarettes have been my only constant since I was a teenager. Even though I hate smoking, it's like the death of a beloved friend. There. I said it. It's really feels that dramatic. Maybe I need to allow myself to grieve the loss of this companion that saw me through so much, while recognizing I don't need it anymore, and letting go...

Honey....you are not alone...I could write the same words as you have here....I fight with myself every time I light up....I want and need to do it...my longest time recently was 71 hours...I call them my evil deadly friends and argue why I keep allowing them to keep their grip on me....sigh....we will get there....we will get there...we will!!

[Lady Pamela]

Today, January 5th I celebrate two full years of being a non-smoker! :clap:
I smoked for many years and thought that I would never be able to quit. I think what helped me the most was, before I tried to quit I thought a lot about when I started smoking and what the real reason(s) were that I began in the first place...trying to fit in with "the crowd", wanting to be grown, it was cool back then to smoke, feeling a lack of control in one's life, whatever. Everyone has different reasons. Once I realized what mine was, and told myself the truth, the actual quitting became much easier for me. I also had to get to the point where I truly wanted to stop smoking. Like I said, it's different for each of us. Sometimes I still can't believe I did it.

Congrats to everyone who is still working on, or even thinking about quitting! If this is something that you really want, then it will be yours.

My hat..(If I had one..lol)..is off to you!..smiles
Keep it up and never pick up again.
Soooo happy for you .

Today is a grand marker for you.
You need to treat yourself with something in honor of your continued choice to say no.




.

[Lady Pamela]

With all my medical stuff creeping up on me, I am asked quite regularly, when I last smoked. I've had a couple of professionals say to me that they think with all that's going on, this will more than likely be my last time fighting it.

Yeh, I have to agree... it's just not worth the hassle when it comes to all the negatives it's brought about to my body.

Two months now for me!

Actually, those first few months for me were the WHOPPER.

So glad you chose health or continued cell generation..smiles

I can so relate to the medical side of things.

Keep it up!


.

[Lady Pamela]

Honey....you are not alone...I could write the same words as you have here....I fight with myself every time I light up....I want and need to do it...my longest time recently was 71 hours...I call them my evil deadly friends and argue why I keep allowing them to keep their grip on me....sigh....we will get there....we will get there...we will!!

Of course you will. You both have what it takes. DESIRE to have somthing diffrent other than smoking .

Keep it up!

.

[Lofl]

I had my last cigarette three months ago, then cut my chew down the beginning of December to 2 cans a week. After a few weeks I cut down to one can a week. Yesterday I finished my last can. Today to keep my mind off of not having what I want, I walked, I shoveled dirt, I cleaned the frig out (so unheard of..hehe) , and stacked enough fire wood for two winters. I so want to jump in the truck and fly down the dirt road to town. Yet here I set, just talking about it and not doing it. Maybe I have won half the battle. Tomorrow at this time I shall know if I won or not….here is to hope. :hangloose:

[Scuba]

Popping in to lend my support!!! Two and a half years smoke free and counting :) If I can do it so can you all!!

Keep at it even if today doesn't seem to be the day. Lady Pamela is right...desire counts for everything!!

Scoobs

[Lucian]

I've been trying to quit for years. I always fail at it. But i have really got to try and succeed. Because i notice the difference now days with physical activity. I don't want that to get even worse. I still have time to turn it around.

[DapperButch]

Good luck to those who are quit...keep it up...it CAN be done!

It was hellish hard for me to quit. I was a 2 pack smoker a day. Chantix was the answer. Yes, I had the shitty dreams and actually felt very nauseous for about 20 minutes every morning after taking the pill, but it was worth it.

The other key for me was using the Chatix for 6 months, rather than the recommended 3 months. I was glad my prescirber was willing to do this.

A bit over 3 years, here!

Keep it up, folks!

[ahk]

Today, marks my 5 years of smoke free. I would have to agree with Jesse on just knowing when its time to quit. I was just ready to quit, I was tired of the increase of prices, I was also tired of having to walk that extra mile to smoke at work, I was tired of smelling like smoke, and I was just tired of smoking.

Good luck to everyone who is trying to kick the habit-- you can do it!!

[puddin']

i'd been quit about 15 years when mah daddy died. i started back. but have been quit again now fo' 2 years.

love bein' smoke free...

[Lady Pamela]

i'd been quit about 15 years when mah daddy died. i started back. but have been quit again now fo' 2 years.

love bein' smoke free...

I quit for 2 years once also...but the fact that you quit again and have done that kick in the ass before..will save you from the next slide..atleast for me it has.

Way to go btw!






.

[funkyfemme]

Today makes 155 days without a smoke!!!!! Goooooooooo ME!! :cheerleader:

Since August I've had a few rough patches but they seem to pass as quickly as they come. I feel pretty lucky that it's been this easy. Still not gonna get too cocky as I have a great failure rate lol!

Anyhoo, just wanted to say congrats to all the new quitters and to those with a few years under their belts, way to go!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup:

[Tommi]

http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/231743-47524-42.jpg

Celebrated my 11th month smoke free today...smiles

I know to some it may be silly to do so but today I officially have not smoked aprox. 13,200 ciggarretts.

And have started to regenerate some damage I have done.


.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE WHO HAVE QUIT, AND THOSE THAT ARE STRUGGLING TOO...cuz it is on your agenda. :)
Congrats, and on your anniversary, it is on my birthday...We should have celebrated. I still am, I have decided it needs to be a birthday month.

WOW, I can see that image , of all those cigarettes.
Way to go. I have much respect for those that can do this, as I have been told it is harder than drugs and alcohol. My Mom and my ex were heavy smokers, then one day, it was time to put them away. My Mom kept a pack in the freezer.? Peggie kept one in the medicine cabinet.

[Lady Pamela]

Today makes 155 days without a smoke!!!!! Goooooooooo ME!! :cheerleader:

Since August I've had a few rough patches but they seem to pass as quickly as they come. I feel pretty lucky that it's been this easy. Still not gonna get too cocky as I have a great failure rate lol!

Anyhoo, just wanted to say congrats to all the new quitters and to those with a few years under their belts, way to go!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup:

Incredible isn't it...the strength we find within when we challenge what feels uncomfortable..at first!

Way to go and so very proud for you!

Keep it up!




.

[Lady Pamela]

CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE WHO HAVE QUIT, AND THOSE THAT ARE STRUGGLING TOO...cuz it is on your agenda. :)
Congrats, and on your anniversary, it is on my birthday...We should have celebrated. I still am, I have decided it needs to be a birthday month.

WOW, I can see that image , of all those cigarettes.
Way to go. I have much respect for those that can do this, as I have been told it is harder than drugs and alcohol. My Mom and my ex were heavy smokers, then one day, it was time to put them away. My Mom kept a pack in the freezer.? Peggie kept one in the medicine cabinet.

Personally saying thank you for the kind words.
And yes celebrating with you would be an honor..smiles

I also kept some around as a crutch incase to show I had some to myself..I was recently able to dismiss those..ha

After recieving news of the emphysima/copd after I quit.
And enduring lack of air even when I did not smoke...I have deeper appreciation of living and air in my lungs.

Also an added true fear of the outcome...which I know from working in medical field for so long.

I am thankful for every second I am aware and breathe.


.

[dixie]

594 hours: 04 minutes: 51 seconds
since my last cigarette

Still craving them pretty bad most of the time, but am determined not to smoke. I was on Chantix but I just could not handle the side effects, primarily the extreme nausea that would last about two hours after each pill. I decided to take myself off of it and just go it alone. (Am allergic to patches and not a fan of gum...had one of the e-cigs but it just makes me want a real one.) Now I carry around a lil box of tic tacs, and every time have a craving I pop one in my mouth. So far, so good! :)

[Lady Pamela]

594 hours: 04 minutes: 51 seconds
since my last cigarette

Still craving them pretty bad most of the time, but am determined not to smoke. I was on Chantix but I just could not handle the side effects, primarily the extreme nausea that would last about two hours after each pill. I decided to take myself off of it and just go it alone. (Am allergic to patches and not a fan of gum...had one of the e-cigs but it just makes me want a real one.) Now I carry around a lil box of tic tacs, and every time have a craving I pop one in my mouth. So far, so good! :)


Way to go..so happy for you!
Keep it up..step through the hard moments..each nicci last 5 minutes ..remember that..it makes it easier..and don't forget to breath and take your moments still to re group.

Smiles...Again..CONGRAT!



.

[Dude]

I am doing it with e cigs.
For two weeks I've been weaning myself down off the real shit.
If all goes well today will be my first day of no real ones.
I learned the hard way that I cant have emergency cigarettes around .Period.
That would be like quitting drinking and having an emergency
bottle up in the cupboard :| I would have never got sober like that.
But I had to try it, yes I did.


Sooo much harder than quitting drinking.
The e cigs are taking the edge off but
the emotional
( OMG Your best friend, your constant source of stuffing
emotions is fucking outta heah?!!!!REALLY?)
stuff is surfacing.

I am also worried about my personality changing
because I don't feel "right".... snort

[dixie]

I am doing it with e cigs.
For two weeks I've been weaning myself down off the real shit.
If all goes well today will be my first day of no real ones.
I learned the hard way that I cant have emergency cigarettes around .Period.
That would be like quitting drinking and having an emergency
bottle up in the cupboard :| I would have never got sober like that.
But I had to try it, yes I did.


Sooo much harder than quitting drinking.
The e cigs are taking the edge off but
the emotional
( OMG Your best friend, your constant source of stuffing
emotions is fucking outta yeah?!!!!REALLY?)
stuff is surfacing.

I am also worried about my personality changing
because I don't feel "right".... snort
I am different with the "emergency" stash. I have the rest of the last pack of Marlboros I bought before the hospital (about 9 cigs) in my purse. My personality is a bit off. If I do not have any, then my mind tells me that the only reason I am not smoking is because I am out. Since I DO have some in my purse, my mind is telling me that I am not smoking because I CHOOSE not to smoke. (See? Odd mind I have lol)

As for personality, I understand about not feeling "right." I have been one cranky cruel bitch, and I still don't recommend looking at me the wrong way. LOL Needless to say, I am hoping it's just the lack of cigs and that I am not really this much of a bitch and just never noticed it before lol

[Lady Pamela]

I am doing it with e cigs.
For two weeks I've been weaning myself down off the real shit.
If all goes well today will be my first day of no real ones.
I learned the hard way that I cant have emergency cigarettes around .Period.
That would be like quitting drinking and having an emergency
bottle up in the cupboard :| I would have never got sober like that.
But I had to try it, yes I did.


Sooo much harder than quitting drinking.
The e cigs are taking the edge off but
the emotional
( OMG Your best friend, your constant source of stuffing
emotions is fucking outta heah?!!!!REALLY?)
stuff is surfacing.

I am also worried about my personality changing
because I don't feel "right".... snort

Way to go!!!
Yes this is as hard or close to it as heroin..wow huh...but it is truely doable.

Keep it up and stay busy..but don't forget to breath.
Stay with your method don't stop it to early.
And I suggest reading all posts for great ideas.

Welcome to being a non smoker..smiles

,

[Loren_Q]

Like Dude I'm using e-cigs.

Since I started with e-cigs (Dec 22nd) I've had 4 tobacco cigarettes total. So far so good.

Over the years I tried gum, patches, Zyban, Chantix. I'd quit for a period of time (as long as 8 years, as little as 6months) but the craving never really left. I'd not smoke by just force of will, often berating myself whether I gave in or not.

The e-cigs taught me a lot about my addiction. I'm not entirely sure it's the nicotine for me. When I smoked I was a 1/2 pack a day smoker, often less. So there wasn't much of a nicotine hit throughout the day.

What I did need was the goodies that came with smoking: the ritual of it, taking a break from work with smoking buddies, the feeling of heat in my mouth, the throat hit, the rolling of something in my fingers. There's also a psychological 'time out' for me as well.

Many times not smoking felt unkind, but then, so did smoking. It's very much a no-win.

With the e-cigs I don't feel like I'm punishing myself when not smoking, nor am I berating myself for 'giving in'.

I don't know if this will be the silver bullet for me, but I'm hoping. That and now I have a bunch of lighters for fire play ;)

Loren

[Dude]

triggers


triggers

I'm ok ...I'm ok

geezuz

mornings are hard
nighttime is hard

I'd like to just sleep through the next few weeks
wake me when it's all ovah please

[dixie]

triggers


triggers

I'm ok ...I'm ok

geezuz

mornings are hard
nighttime is hard

I'd like to just sleep through the next few weeks
wake me when it's all ovah please

Mornings are hard
Nighttime is hard
After meals are hard
After chocolate is hard
Arguing with idiots is hard
Being bored is hard
Driving is hard
Tuesdays are hard
OMG-what-am-i-going-to-wear is hard
Seeing random strangers with cigarettes is hard
etc
etc
etc

I have discovered so many freakin triggers it drives me nutssss!

I stop, I take a few deep and calming breaths, I pop a tic tac or peppermint in my mouth, and I repeat my mantra of "damn it feels so good to breathe and not hack my lungs out every morning" LOL

I certainly hope it gets better, because I loved smoking and did not want to quit. BUT I've already discovered so many advantages to it, that I really hope I can stick with it.

You can too, my friend. It's worth it. Hell, just imagine...we don't stink no more LOL

[Daktari]

Another here flying by to give a little encouragement.

One day at a time. One half day at a time. An hour at a time. Five minutes at a time. You can do it.

A positive self talk and application of will-power; sorry no pill, patch or other replacement can substitute for the whole mind over matter, will-power thang and you'll succeed. The pills, patches and other stuffs do help immeasurably in those first weeks and months though.

This time I knew, just *knew* that something was different. There were no reservations, not even one tiny 'well maybe one day', left to thwart me yet again. The fear factor of having just nearly carked it from a humungous chest infection helped no end. Ex-Mrs.D didn't like watching me die in front of her eyes either. :|

Coming up to 3yrs without even a sneaky puff or lapse of any sort.

...and in that phrase made immortal by the ex smoker the smoker loves to hate. If I can do it, you can too. :cheesy:

:cheerleader:


365days giving up other harmful substances. It's a leap year so there's one more day to go.

[Dude]

food tastes sooooooo GOOD
I had peanut butter pancakes two days in a row
that was to die for!!!!
so many times I would smoke rather than eat
so I have to work on that too

I have strange little energy surges
its like coming out of a very thick fog

there is a stinky ashtray on the porch
to remind me Yes it does Indeed stink to high heaven

thank you cheerleaders

[Loren_Q]

I'm going through a hard time right now on a lot of different fronts. Not good, that's always a trigger for me to buy a pack.

But so far, the e-cig is keeping me away from the real thing. I do admit I'm puffing it a lot more than I had been, but frankly if it's keeping me from smoking I'm okay with puffing my vapor to high heaven.

Loren

[not2shygrrl]

food tastes sooooooo GOOD
I had peanut butter pancakes two days in a row
that was to die for!!!!
so many times I would smoke rather than eat
so I have to work on that too

I have strange little energy surges
its like coming out of a very thick fog

there is a stinky ashtray on the porch
to remind me Yes it does Indeed stink to high heaven

thank you cheerleaders


that stinky ashtray is a great idea !!

[Lady Pamela]

First off, sorry I have not checked in for a bit. I have been a little pre-consumed but I am here now.

I am so excited to see so many people on this path as well.
And so many supporters..how awesome is that?...WOW!

Congrats to all of you who have choesen your life over this habbit.
And a huge THANK YOU to all who are suppoting all who are struggling.

May you continue your journey and know you are not alone!

Sending out love and energy to all who need it.

Blessing's to you,
Pamela




.

[Lady Pamela]

http://doubletriple.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Twelve12s.png

TODAY MAKES 1 YEAR SMOKE FREE FOR ME!!!

My mother and father would have been so pleased.
I can so feel them smiling today.

By family and friends, I was the last person they ever thought would quit smoking.
They are all so pleased and shocked as well.

I smoked anywhere from a pack and a half to 2 packs normally.
I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support.
And for allowing me to ramble and carry on during this entire year.

Your words and time have most definately helped in the process.

Today I also come out for the first time about other struggles that smoking has created for me.
I have kept things very silent but I feel others need to know.
Also if my story can help even one..It will make my hard times worth it.



When I stopped smoking, I found out about 1 month afterwards that I had COPD/Emphysima.
That was very hard news to process for me, because I have had others with it.

I am a fighter when things get togh. I am not one to give in so to speak.
So COPD was just an obsticle I needed to get through. And day to day, I do what needs to be done to do just that.

Last week I hurt my rib so I had to go to E.R. to have it checked out.
They gave me a x-ray and cat scan to see what damage I had done. ( Or atleast I thought that was why.)

My daughter was with me as a team of doctors came into my room and shut the door.
They told me that they had found some marks. Left side it is 5mm in size and right side is 4mm.
And that the cat scan was to confirm the spots on the ex-ray were actual mass or nodules.

My mind was spinning. And quite honestly, scared to death at that moment.They set me a doctor appointment and said no matter what, do not miss it.
So I went home to process this day and get ready for whatever the doc would say.

On February 1st I went in to the doc.
They said they will send for my last years ex-rays to compare to which will take a few weeks.
They will also then be able to get all meds I haven't been able to have for other things I have. After they come and my medical gets on the go.

Also that no matter what, they will be very active as to my treatment.
And aiding in making me more comfortable with my other issues as well.

A part in my letter to medicade states this....
" Pamela was recently evaluated in E.R. and found to have had two nudules that are suspicious for cancer. The nodules should be compared to other medical records and also reevaluated and possibly biopsied. In order to determine whether or not they are malignant or not."

I would not wish having this type of scare for anyone.
It has made me tottally evauate my entire life and what I truely think that matters.

I am a strong soul and have endured alot in this life, including cancer years ago.
But this news took me by suprise even with the copd and smoking past.

I will update as I am updated as well.

I normally do not post stuff of this nature in public sites.
But like I said, If one person hears my story and it makes them stop, think and react before it happens to them..Then it is worth it!


Today I celebrate myself for making great choices.
I celebrate my life, and all I can do still due to stopping now.

I am deeply full of gratitude to those who have been there for me.
And to all of you who have listen and helped throuout this year.

Thank you so very very much. I value you all.
And can only hope I can and have been there for you as well.

May your day be full of beauty and dreams.
And may you see past moments that hard.

Blessings to you all,
Pamela





.

[Lady Pamela]

http://images2.cpcache.com/nocache/product/280429932v2147483647_480x480_Front.jpg

[Lady Pamela]

Checking in to see how everyone is doing?

[dixie]

912 hours 34 minutes 13 seconds

The cravings are not as bad now but when they do hit, they hit hard. I'm making it work though. At one point today I had to stop, meditate a bit, and start again....simply because the "want" was so bad. I'm still making it though. Day by day.

[Lady Pamela]

912 hours 34 minutes 13 seconds

The cravings are not as bad now but when they do hit, they hit hard. I'm making it work though. At one point today I had to stop, meditate a bit, and start again....simply because the "want" was so bad. I'm still making it though. Day by day.

Just remember to check in...your not alone!

[Lady Pamela]

Just wanted to thank everyone for the reps..also for all the kind words...thank you!






.

[GraffitiBoi]

Hello all,

I thought I'd pop in here and join in. I'm going to need the support! Today is my 40th birthday and I'm quitting smoking! I'm not doing it because it's my b-day. It just happens to be time to quit. Finally. I've wanted to quit for a long time but never got up the resolve to go through with it. I tried to quit several times but I kept coming up with excuses and ended up picking up yet another pack. Well, I'm out of excuses. I have an ecig I used before. I have patches if the ecig doesn't seem to do it. I'm going to fill up my free time with working out, meditation, yoga and other physical activities. Might as well get in shape at the same time!

[Lofl]

on 1-5-13 I had posted that I had not smoked for 3 months. Great job me, I should say, but no. I had waited too long to stop to spare myself from some not needed pain. A few years ago I was diagnosed with COPD. Every day I had a reason why I could quit tomorrow. Will right after my post on the 5th I was put in CICU, and put into an induced coma for 10 days. A machine breathing for me, because I could not. Another 10 days in a sterile room, you know the kind I am talking about, where when you have a visitor they must wear gowns, cloves and slippers over their shoes.
I almost waited to long to stop, I will not make that mistake twice.
Peace Out!

[Daktari]

Me too Lofl; I was diagnosed with copd long before I gave up nicotine. The result? Significantly reduced lung function that won't ever get better. :|

I hope you're well on the way back to health.

[dixie]

It occurred to me today that 2 days ago marked my 2nd month of being smoke free. Time certainly seems to fly by these days. The cravings aren't bad at all anymore. I can handle it now. :)

[Glenn]

//////:praying:

[meridiantoo]

I just saw this thread bumped up and am working on quitting (not very successfully so far).

My question is, did any of you use vaping to quit?

:moonstars:

[Elijah]

I have 17 days clean today...I still have cravings, but mercifully they are short lived.

Congratulations and good luck to all!

[Lady Pamela]

Sorry for my lack in showing up..life has been a little fast paced lately..smiles

Congrats to all who have kept smoke free.
And congrats to all those just starting.

As I have said before, I suggest you read the entire thread.
People here have been very helpful in ideas.

As of the 4th of this month I am smoke free 13 months...and still going!


Keep it up peeps...grin
It is worth it.

[meridiantoo]

Sorry for my lack in showing up..life has been a little fast paced lately..smiles

Congrats to all who have kept smoke free.
And congrats to all those just starting.

As I have said before, I suggest you read the entire thread.
People here have been very helpful in ideas.

As of the 4th of this month I am smoke free 13 months...and still going!


Keep it up peeps...grin
It is worth it.

The *gulp* ENTIRE thread? Oh boy...*Makes a pot of coffee and settles in for the night....

Thank you for your good wishes!

[Daktari]

I just saw this thread bumped up and am working on quitting (not very successfully so far).

My question is, did any of you use vaping to quit?

:moonstars:

I should preface my post by telling y'all I do have a strong opinion about the vape/pretend cig things.

From my observations of many who are currently using the vape (pretend cig) I can only conclude that they tend not to give up because they're not actually quitting the visual and mental cues that make them smokers. The fact that vaping is legal indoors maintains their reliance on the ingestion and use of the emotional crutch they say they're hoping to break.

We're having a prolonged debate in the fellowship at the moment about these vape things. Those who believe they have a right to do what they want when they want with no regard for others think they should be able to smoke their vapes in meetings until folks point out to them, "aren't you meant to be giving up smoking, why can't you wait like the cig smokers have to?" Which leads them to vape outside, with the smokers, as usual. No change of habit or behaviour which seems to defeat the object really. Staying indoors away from the smokers to vape, still maintains the habits and the reliance on putting something in your lungs to make you feel better.

The only way to give up smoking is to break the habits, behaviours and emotional attachment to something that is bad for us. I don't see how the vape cigs actually do that. In my opinion they maintain the smoking status quo.

[DapperButch]

The only way to give up smoking is to break the habits, behaviours and emotional attachment to something that is bad for us. I don't see how the vape cigs actually do that. In my opinion they maintain the smoking status quo.



Said perfectly.

I would be curious to hear from ex-smokers who used this method to quit. I am betting that there is not as high quit rate as there is for other methods.

I do believe that Strappy is/was using this method. Would like an update.

[DapperButch]

Sorry for my lack in showing up..life has been a little fast paced lately..smiles

Congrats to all who have kept smoke free.
And congrats to all those just starting.

As I have said before, I suggest you read the entire thread.
People here have been very helpful in ideas.

As of the 4th of this month I am smoke free 13 months...and still going!


Keep it up peeps...grin
It is worth it.

Hey, Lady Pamela!

So what happened with the testing? All clear?

[Loren_Q]

The only way to give up smoking is to break the habits, behaviours and emotional attachment to something that is bad for us. I don't see how the vape cigs actually do that. In my opinion they maintain the smoking status quo.



I do use e-cigs and also have strong options on the use of them. For one, I do see them as a substitute for smoking and keep the same behaviors as I did when I smoked. I do not vape when I'm in a restaurant, meeting, in my cube at work. I do not vape in other peoples homes. My feelings are even though the vapor is "generally recognized as safe", I do not wish to impose on others.

My reasons for wanting to quit smoking is not so much the addiction, but the health concerns. Inhaling burning material, inhaling tar, etc. is known to be horrific for my body. My mother passed away from COPD, I keenly understand smoking to be deadly.

FTR, I'm 30 years clean, 19 years sober. Unlike my drinking and drugging, I didn't lie, cheat or steal to smoke, I didn't ignore responsibilities nor did my personality or values alter when I smoked. I didn't smoke to run away from my feelings, I did use it to take a mental time out so I could go back and work on those feelings.

I smoked off/on for over 30 years. I've gone cold turkey, used the patch, gum, Zyban, Chantix. I've had smoke-free periods ranging from 1month to 8years. In all of these attempts, the craving didn't leave me, I always felt that I was just holding on... barely. One thing that always happened was I was unkind to myself. I was unkind if I smoked and it often felt unkind to not smoke.

In some cases, the least upset could get a cancer-stick in my mouth in no time flat.

With e-cigs, I'm not ingesting toxic material known to cause cancer. Am I getting nicotine? Yes, when I'm using liquid that has nicotine, although much of what I vape has 0nicotine. Does nicotine make me lie, cheat or steal? No. Is nicotine itself bad for me? From all that I've read, not in the quantity I ingest.

Is all of this rationalization? Perhaps, but one thing I know for certain, I have not smoked during a very trying period of time. I know if I didn't have my trusty e-cig, I'd be back smoking.

This is my experience, your mileage may vary.

Loren

[meridiantoo]

I should preface my post by telling y'all I do have a strong opinion about the vape/pretend cig things.

From my observations of many who are currently using the vape (pretend cig) I can only conclude that they tend not to give up because they're not actually quitting the visual and mental cues that make them smokers. The fact that vaping is legal indoors maintains their reliance on the ingestion and use of the emotional crutch they say they're hoping to break.

We're having a prolonged debate in the fellowship at the moment about these vape things. Those who believe they have a right to do what they want when they want with no regard for others think they should be able to smoke their vapes in meetings until folks point out to them, "aren't you meant to be giving up smoking, why can't you wait like the cig smokers have to?" Which leads them to vape outside, with the smokers, as usual. No change of habit or behaviour which seems to defeat the object really. Staying indoors away from the smokers to vape, still maintains the habits and the reliance on putting something in your lungs to make you feel better.

The only way to give up smoking is to break the habits, behaviours and emotional attachment to something that is bad for us. I don't see how the vape cigs actually do that. In my opinion they maintain the smoking status quo.



Daktari,

I completely agree that it requires a lifestyle change to successfully quit all nicotine. I quit for 2 years in my 20's cold turkey. I am eager to quit now and not return to this awful habit. I plan to make adjustments in all things connected to my nicotine habit in order to officially quit.

I understand that simply substituting the e-cig for a real cig is not great, but it's also, at least from what I read, much better than smoking something burning/on fire and known to cause cancer among other diseases. All moral debates aside, if you need the crutch to wean off nicotine, at least in my eyes, that is okay, as long as you work toward the goal of being nicotine free. If you do not and maintain a habit of vaping nicotine liquid, then it's still better than smoking a lit cigarette.

Meri :moonstars:

[Lady Pamela]

Hey, Lady Pamela!

So what happened with the testing? All clear?

Not yet..more tests and scans...so no news yet......Thanks for asking though.....Just waiting and trying to be patient...smiles

My next ct is in three months so I will update when it happens.


.

[meridiantoo]

I do use e-cigs and also have strong options on the use of them. For one, I do see them as a substitute for smoking and keep the same behaviors as I did when I smoked. I do not vape when I'm in a restaurant, meeting, in my cube at work. I do not vape in other peoples homes. My feelings are even though the vapor is "generally recognized as safe", I do not wish to impose on others.

Loren

I read the last 2 posts, this one being one of them, and this is my thought. As a smoker, I have noticed there are different types of smokers. Some are rude and do not care where they light up nor who is affected, and that has always bothered me. Then there are others who are respectful and understand the consequences of smoking and do not impose that risk on others. I imagine this is just an extension of behaviors developed over life and tied to your particular sense of respect/ethics/consideration/social responsibility. That does not mean I have never smoked somewhere it was best not to. I am human. But, I have always tried to keep it respectful, to the degree that you can considering what you are doing.

As a vaper, I will follow the same principles I follow with smoking cigarettes:

1) I will not smoke in anyone's home and I will not vape in anyone's home.

2) I will not vape in situations that are obviously inappropriate (children's birthday parties, hospital, inside a restaurant or store (even if it is allowed), etc.

3) For me, a sense of shame has always been attached to smoking. I will likely carry this same feeling into vaping. I don't fight that shame because I think there is a plausible reason my conscious is telling me to feel shame (just my opinion and I don't throw this on anyone else). As such, I will likely not vape in public often, if at all.

4) If I were in a vaping-accepting environment, then I likely would go ahead and do it. This would be rare occasions, I would think.

5) Do unto others as you would have done unto you - that is what I try to live by, though I'm not always successful. This just gives me a common sense template in making decisions that affect others. I will adhere to this in vaping until I am 100% nicotine free, at which point I will put vaping aside.

If I were in a public place and someone vaped, I'm not sure if I would think it was wrong or not. I can understand needing to do it. I think it would disturb me if someone vaped in a totally inappropriate environment, but I don't think most people would do that.

I'm so encouraged to see this thread here. It gives me a sense of support while making this transition using the e-cig.

:balloon:

[Daktari]

I will come back to this but suffice to say, I gave a lung over to smoking so I do indeed have quite strong opinions about what I chose to do to myself.

I tell my story because I feel that pretty much the worst case scenario did happen to me entirely because I smoked. I wouldn't wish it on anyone and would love to think that others could, maybe, learn a lesson from someone else's experience.


That's all I gots for now, it's after midnight here and I'm a-visiting, on a busy weekend.

:chaplin:

[not2shygrrl]

Daktari,

I completely agree that it requires a lifestyle change to successfully quit all nicotine. I quit for 2 years in my 20's cold turkey. I am eager to quit now and not return to this awful habit. I plan to make adjustments in all things connected to my nicotine habit in order to officially quit.

I understand that simply substituting the e-cig for a real cig is not great, but it's also, at least from what I read, much better than smoking something burning/on fire and known to cause cancer among other diseases. All moral debates aside, if you need the crutch to wean off nicotine, at least in my eyes, that is okay, as long as you work toward the goal of being nicotine free. If you do not and maintain a habit of vaping nicotine liquid, then it's still better than smoking a lit cigarette.

Meri :moonstars:


I agree that how one quits is not the focus, it is the desire...the will and finding a way. We are all different....and our needs are equally as different in our approaches to 'whatever'. I applaud and support anyone who wants to quit, tries to quit and even if unsuccessful is not judged by me because they did not quit like i did. I would encourage and continue to support the desire. What is the right way for you may not make it right for me. I am/ nor you are any weaker....no less strong....and in fact we are very human in making bad judgements at times. But I get back on that horse.....and try try again.....and I love myself for this.... being human....I would have it no other way! It has been 3 1/2 years, who cares how I did it.....or how many times it took.....I choose to see the successes!

[meridiantoo]

I'm in... I've been cutting back, in preparations of quitting. I've went from almost 3 packs a day to about half a pack. I've been stuck there for a couple weeks. I've been using an app on my phone that tracks how many, how often, and how much $. Just seeing those running totals makes me pay a lot more attention. I try to view the how often, and beat my time...lol. I'm a visual person, so "seeing" results is more helpful to me. Hopefully soon I can progress on to patches or something if need be. It's just kinda stressful this time of year for me, so it will probably be after the holidays before I take the next step. :)

What app? I would like to try this...

Thank you!

:cigar2: blech, over this habit.

[meridiantoo]

Congratulations on each day. Been around along a time at meetings where One Day at a Time is a big celebration. So again, CONGRATULATIONS.
Living in California I have the pleasure of being able to be at work, at a restaurant, and any public place and not be exposed to the second hand smoke. I'm not a ciggie basher, it is just so unpleasant to me, and I think it is due to being around a 2 pack a day partner and also my Mom, and then when not around it, I can breathe, taste, and smell things better.

I have been with people who quit drinking and doing drugs, but could not give up smoking. My Mom, for one. She went into an in-patient rehab program and quit those, but did not, could not give it up until it was too late.
She was diagnosed with oat cell, or smoker's cancer, and on that very day, told me it would still be hard to quit. She did quit during chemo and radiation, and by her own fighting will and the grace of God, lived almost 5 more years.

Mentioning Electronic Cig's , I know the FDA came down hard on them because of things Investigators found at their sites.
Electronic Cigarettes
Summary of Results: Laboratory Analysis of Electronic Cigarettes Conducted By FDA seen here (http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm173146.htm)
FDA announced that it had taken enforcement action against five electronic cigarette companies (seen here) (http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2010/ucm225224.htm) for violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), including unsubstantiated claims and poor manufacturing practices.

Bumping up this post; it bears repeating for several reasons. Don't ignore the laboratory results and FDA enforcement actions...

[meridiantoo]

Okay, done! Thank you for telling me to read the entire thread, Lady. Wow, you guys are a heap of support for me. I will just keep reading the thread every day.

Congratulations to everyone who has successfully quit or unsuccessfully quit and still see themselves as "in the process of quitting", wherever you may be on that spectrum.

:bouquet:

The *gulp* ENTIRE thread? Oh boy...*Makes a pot of coffee and settles in for the night....

Thank you for your good wishes!

Sorry for my lack in showing up..life has been a little fast paced lately..smiles

Congrats to all who have kept smoke free.
And congrats to all those just starting.

As I have said before, I suggest you read the entire thread.
People here have been very helpful in ideas.

As of the 4th of this month I am smoke free 13 months...and still going!


Keep it up peeps...grin
It is worth it.

[meridiantoo]

Food for thought:

http://i1277.photobucket.com/albums/y483/ca_dence/prosofquittingsmoking_zpsbd333381.jpg

[Corkey]

5 years non smoker.
I do not vape for the simple reason it would rekindle the addiction. On high stress days I hang onto the fact that me smoking would 1, kill me and 2, kill my wife. I'm in no hurry to do either.
Stay strong people it does get better.

[Daktari]

I do use e-cigs and also have strong options on the use of them. For one, I do see them as a substitute for smoking and keep the same behaviors as I did when I smoked.

*snip*
Loren


Keeping the same behaviours is what kept me smoking each time I tried to quit.

As you know, if you don't take the first puff of anything then you won't take the second.

I wish you all success in eventually quitting putting stuff in your lungs. :chaplin:

[meridiantoo]

I am finding that keeping a log of my smoking habits is helpful, though tedious and boring.

:clover:

[meridiantoo]

Today I only smoked 10 cigarettes! Woot woot. I think the vaping thing may be my final and long-awaited answer.

[Elijah]

Hey everyone,

I am 38 days smoke free!! If I can do it, so can you, I promise!

~Elijah

[Lady Pamela]

Hey everyone,

I am 38 days smoke free!! If I can do it, so can you, I promise!

~Elijah

Absolutely awesome..yes you can do it!
Keep up the great work!


Stopping in today to say hello to everyone and say I am still smoke free..smoke free also.

Keep it up...It is worth it.

[Sparkles]

Hello everyone. I have a little over seven months free of smoking. I smoked my last cig on a muggy evening last summer. Woke up the next day and just decided I was done. The first few weeks I really wanted to crawl out of my skin. I was beyond irritated with any and every little thing. That eventually passed.

Yesterday I was driving and saw a woman walking on the sidewalk smoking. I watched as the smoke flowed from her mouth and thought about how awful that taste is. I was one of those funny smokers. I couldn't stand how my hands smelled after smoking. My breath tasted icky and and I hated to empty my ashtray because I didn't like touching it because of the smell.

I have no desire to smoke again but I wont say that I wont ever do it again. Sometimes I do miss it. For now though, I'm a non smoker. And it feels pretty good.

I wish you all luck and continued support with your battle, however you choose to approach it/conquer it. It really does get easier with time.

:)

[DapperButch]

I have no desire to smoke again but I wont say that I wont ever do it again. Sometimes I do miss it. For now though, I'm a non smoker. And it feels pretty good.




Hi, Sparkles. I am curious about the above. Why do you say that for now you are a non-smoker? Is your goal not to remain smoke free for life?

Very interesting!

[Lady Pamela]

14 MONTHS
And still going strong...smiles

[Lady Pamela]

14 MONTHS
And still going strong...smiles

Thank you for such kind support and comment.

[Daktari]

3 years and 2 days as a nicotine free non-smoker!

One of the two best things I ever did for myself...giving up other destructive chemicals was the other.


Keep the faith those who're still trying...you can do it if ya really want! :cheerleader:

[Lady Pamela]

Was a little busy on the 4th..lol
But made it 15 months....smiles

[Lady Pamela]

Was a little busy on the 4th..lol
But made it 15 months....smiles

Thanks for all the encouragement.

How is everyone else doing?




.

[Lady Pamela]

http://images.pinkcakebox.com/cake564.jpg

Today is an amazing day for me. Which I silently celebrate.

Every day I get air in my lungs, a kiss from my kids, and hug from my grandbabies, Love from family members, a cuddle or for of love from my animals or feel love from and for friends ..is a moment to celebrate.

But today is because I have made it to 16 months smoke free and possibly allowed myself to have more of the above!

I must be honest..This last month has been extremely trying on me.
Many times I have struggled with the desire to have a smoke.
I seriously began to think I would cave...Though I did not.
And today I thank myself and those who suport me for that!

Many stressers have happened. Many health issues with loved ones and myself.

So I am here to ask those who have gone through this before me...WHAT CAN I DO WHEN TIMES GET REALLY HARD?

I guess I am doing ok but I have felt really weak at times.

Suggestions?


Anyways... for today I will celebrate silently and be proud I have chosen to live....smiles

And as for any updates on my scans..none yet...but hopefully soon.

Have a beautiful day everyone!
Its worth the struggle to stop. I promise!

Who else is still with me?


.

[not2shygrrl]

OK LP, so think of this exactly how it is feeling to you. This is another level you have reached my friend. The 16 months of success have given you possibly some false security at times and now is when you need it the most. So many things going on in your life, energy is hard to come by. You got this dear.....you have the strength of 16 months within you that you have accomplished.....never to be taken away, never. Time to build another level, you won't keep feeling this pull towards smoking with negative energy. It will change by your doings. Call up your strength, and do not allow the mortal weakness that is in your mind over smoking again. Your past is just that.....this level needs your future dreams, loves, and whats in your heart. There will be other levels even after this my friend, but I agree this place is the hardest after being so successful. Smoking is not in your future, cast it out. You control this about yourself, not the weakness or misplaced desire. We are human sweetie, I know you read this post from me with the affection I have for you and having followed you in this smoking cessation from month one with great admiration. My words are for you, my light is arriving with my words. Sweet 16 my dear.......how cool is it to be there 2 times in your life huh?? :)






http://images.pinkcakebox.com/cake564.jpg

Today is an amazing day for me. Which I silently celebrate.

Every day I get air in my lungs, a kiss from my kids, and hug from my grandbabies, Love from family members, a cuddle or for of love from my animals or feel love from and for friends ..is a moment to celebrate.

But today is because I have made it to 16 months smoke free and possibly allowed myself to have more of the above!

I must be honest..This last month has been extremely trying on me.
Many times I have struggled with the desire to have a smoke.
I seriously began to think I would cave...Though I did not.
And today I thank myself and those who suport me for that!

Many stressers have happened. Many health issues with loved ones and myself.

So I am here to ask those who have gone through this before me...WHAT CAN I DO WHEN TIMES GET REALLY HARD?

I guess I am doing ok but I have felt really weak at times.

Suggestions?


Anyways... for today I will celebrate silently and be proud I have chosen to live....smiles

And as for any updates on my scans..none yet...but hopefully soon.

Have a beautiful day everyone!
Its worth the struggle to stop. I promise!

Who else is still with me?


.

[not2shygrrl]

Congrats LP......sweet 16......so many amusing things to say about that! :) You have done something wonderful for your future. You are more than worth it. So it is not about "earning it".....or having it "owed to you from past sacrifices".......you deserve it LP.......just because you are making it happen for a future with so much more to accomplish. :)

[Daktari]

In the last 3 and a bit years since I gave up there's been a few stresses...splitting with a long term lover, being told my home of 16yrs is being sold and not least, giving up other things that were killing me. The only way through these times?

~ Sheer bloody mindedness!

~ Will-power!

~ The knowledge that for me, if I start again, I'm sentencing myself to losing my remaining lung :|

No other way round it I'm afraid. No magic pill or incantation works...although prayer does help for me in such circumstances.

That's life when you give up stuff...I wish it wasn't :sigh:

[Lady Pamela]

For some reason my reps was not working so I will state it here:

not2shygrrl..I wanted to thank you for your continued cheering...smiles
It always makes me smile. And yes, I know your right.
And I do believe the antra is a good idea...ty again


Daktari... Thank you so much and yes I am strong willed.
I know I will make it but sometimes things just tug..as you know.
Thank you for sharing your words with me today.

I think having this sound board and advice from others that I have and will do fine!
Thanks again!

[Lady Pamela]

http://images.deepbox.com/media/i/bhDkGbhugwGChHk.gif

[not2shygrrl]

Well said! <grin>






http://images.deepbox.com/media/i/bhDkGbhugwGChHk.gif

[Lady Pamela]

Checking to see how everyone is doing?



.

[uglyboi]

Non smoker over here for 1 year & 6 months

Yeah Buddy!!!

[uncommondialogue]

For those still unable to kick "the stinkies"...have you tried vaping (e-cigarettes)? I smoked since I was 15 and was up to 2 1/2 packs a day when I started vaping. I am 63 now and nothing ever worked, not the patch, not the gum, not the pills...nothing. Since starting to vape, I have not picked up a regular analog cigarette. A lot of the cigarette habit is the hand/mouth for a lot of us too. I believe that is why vaping has been so successful for me and many, many others

Smoking is not a habit, it is an addiction, and one that has a stronger hold on the user than some of the hardest drugs out there. Tobacco cigarettes have horrible ingredients including (but not limited to) over 4000 chemicals, 30 of which are known carcinogens, tar that coats ones lungs causing many, many health issues, and carbon monoxide. The one fairly benign ingredient found in tobacco cigarettes is the nicotine. Ironically, it is the nicotine that is addictive. In comparison to the other ingredients, nicotine is basically harmless. It is comparable to caffeine in that it is harmless, yet addictive, in small doses, but can be dangerous in large doses. Replacing smoking traditional cigarettes with vaping eliminates all those horrible ingredients while still delivering small doses of nicotine. The benefits are the same as quitting smoking cold turkey, yet the user still enjoys the physical act of smoking and doesn't experience any withdrawal symptoms. It is the individual user's preference, but one can indeed "step down" to smaller and smaller doses of nicotine until vaping 0 nicotine strength juice and thus, gradually eliminating the addiction. A freind on Face Book posted: Jill should be commended on her 3 months tobacco/smoke free and encouraged in her vaping quests. Keep it up Jill, you're doing great!!!"

[Butterbean]

Are you thinking about your plan to quit? A plan is helpful. I quit over 2 years ago and I am so glad I did.

I smoked 2.5 packs a day and my addiction was costing me the cost of a car payment.

Good luck and don't forget you can do this!

[Loren_Q]

Whether it's 10 years or 10 days, congrats.

I've been smoke free for a bit over 4 months, but this is the first time where I've not fought the craving on a daily basis, so I have a lot of hope that this time will stick.

Like a few folks here I vape and it's working for me. I started vaping in Dec. 2012 and for the first 2 months did have the periodic smoke. I smoked 6 cigarettes in 2 months, since then, none at all.

[Daktari]

I hope you vapers manage to give up your addiction to putting anything in your lungs to feel better.


Wishing you all luck but especially those who are actually braving the addiction to smoking anything at all.

:cheerleader:

[Loren_Q]

I hope you vapers manage to give up your addiction to putting anything in your lungs to feel better.

Wishing you all luck but especially those who are actually braving the addiction to smoking anything at all.

:cheerleader:

You know, at first this bothered me, but after thinking about it I'm going with "take what you want and leave the rest."

For those who are not smoking, whether by sheer will power, patches, gum, zyban, chantex, vape, lollipops, cinnamon sticks, toothpicks, gritting your teeth, sucking your thumb, etc. Good luck and good wishes.

Loren

[not2shygrrl]

You know, at first this bothered me, but after thinking about it I'm going with "take what you want and leave the rest."

For those who are not smoking, whether by sheer will power, patches, gum, zyban, chantex, vape, lollipops, cinnamon sticks, toothpicks, gritting your teeth, sucking your thumb, etc. Good luck and good wishes.

Loren


yanno Loren.....I 100% support what you say here! Successes are just that! I would venture to say ALL vices are replaced by something else, and in no way is the success diminished or less than any other success..... this opinion is how I choose to see people in the "quitters" here! Go quitters!!! How many times in life is it cool to be a quitter??!! Well it is here!

*singing* 'I'm a member of the quitters club, the quitters club, the quitters club!

[Daktari]

Does a herion addict stop being a drug addict if they substitute their drug of choice and it's method of ingestion for methadone on a daily basis?

I know my opinion is not a popular one.

At least there's a thread for those of you who do chose substitute one habit for another one.

Honestly, I don't really care if anyone agrees with my unpopular opinion, I know that I too would have railed against such an opinion when I was a smoker.

It's not rocket science. To stop being 'addicted' to something you stop doing it... and it's substitutes.

[Loren_Q]

This thread is about kicking the smoking habit. In fact the OP mentions using a substitute to "cut the smoke from my lungs", etc. and the final question in the original post is "What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?'

I've posted on this thread in that spirit and laud all who have decided to find a way, their way, to stop smoking (and stay stopped).

FTR, I'm 30 years clean and 29 years sober. And I don't for a minute think that I'm 'cured' or that I'm no longer an addict; I am simply in recovery today, and let me tell you being an atheist in AA is an adventure.

My take on smoking is different from my take on drugs and alcohol because of how smoking affects (or doesn't affect) me.

When I was drinking and using, my values would change; I would lie, cheat, manipulate, steal. I would emotionally damage myself and others.

When clean and sober but smoking, my values didn't change; I didn't lie, cheat, manipulate or steal, but I was doing physical damage to myself and others.

I needed to get clean and sober not just because it was killing me, but because I hated being a person without values or integrity.

Smoking didn't take away my values, but it will shorten my life. I need to not smoke because I want a long and healthy life.

Your mileage may vary.

and the title should have been "To each their own..." yeesh.

[Loren_Q]

FTR, I'm 30 years clean and 29 years sober.


Oops, that's 30 years clean, 19 years sober... washed my hands and I can't do a think with them.

[uncommondialogue]

Too many people just don't know what vaping is really all about. There is no "smoke" like a traditional cigarette taken into the lung...it is harmless vapor. I just had a doctor follow-up visit yesterday and he is thrilled. He can see how clear my lungs are now and there is no more smoker's cough. For a lot of smokers as I mentioned before it is a lot of the hand/mouth stuff going on. In fact, one of the ingredients in the e-juice is used in breathing medications in inhalers. There are non of the 400 additives in e-juice that cigarettes contain and certainly no carcinogins.

This is a tasty hobby for me now, and gives me more satisfaction than any cigarette taste did. There are a plethora of e-juices out there that taste scrumptious.

All I suggest is that vaping is a much safer alternative and works for thousand and thousands of people and verifiable benefits to their health and well-being.

[not2shygrrl]

Well it has been 4 years for me as a non smoker. Have I been tempted...hell yea......have I been successful being a non smoker....hell yea but not without those moments that had me struggling at times. What people think of what I say here is important to me, as I do rally for all of us to quit, or continue to quit and even continue to try if that is the goal! By me posting here I am saying I care, and kudos are just that......unconditional!! If you are reading this, then you are human......imperfect. What cannot be taken from any one of us?.....is our accomplishments! So I applaud you "quitters" as I affectionately refer to you all and myself as. :) If vaping helps you then vape! Not smoking carcinogens surely is a healthy alternative. I will never diminish nor push you backwards from where you proudly stand! On ward and up ward!! I agree with the OP here, and its about giving support, and my own twist is adding respect for peoples choices on how they quit. Why you do this or how you do this is part of what leads you to learn and grow. I think that is beautiful!

[Medusa]

I'm not a fan of the judgment call about what vaping is or is not, especially in context of people who are kicking an addictive, harmful substance. I really hope this thread remains positive and that those who think vaping is bullshit or an exchange of addictions consider that it's really not your call to label someone else's path to getting healthy.

I know several folks who vape (myself being one!) juice that has zero nicotine. The juice is basically the same ingredients that comprise asthma inhalers. Even further, there are a great many folks who are "mouth vapers" who don't actually inhale but rather puff on their stick.

Anyway, not trying to be an asshole but any step toward clearing your body of those hundreds of terrible chemicals in cigarettes is a GREAT step forward.

I haven't smoked since January 3rd of this year and I can honestly say I will NEVER smoke again.
I kicked the habit with the help of my vape stick. I now only vape in social situations but don't even regularly puff anymore. I chew gum and drink water when my mouth gets antsy.

I applaud every single person in this thread who is taking the step toward health! This is an amazing gift to give to yourself (and the people who love you!)

[Lady Pamela]

Checking in to say hello as see how everyone is?

[DapperButch]

Checking in to say hello as see how everyone is?

Just want to say that I think it is great that you keep this thread going. It reminds people who want to quit that we are here. I liken it to a 12 step meeting being available to people with addictions. It always makes me smile to see that you have hit another month and it reminds newbies that it can be done !

[Lady Pamela]

Just want to say that I think it is great that you keep this thread going. It reminds people who want to quit that we are here. I liken it to a 12 step meeting being available to people with addictions. It always makes me smile to see that you have hit another month and it reminds newbies that it can be done !

Thank was so sweet thank you.
Though I am smoke free I am humbled by those who frequent here.
I am also reminded often what has happened and what could happen.
But honestly, If I can help one die hard smoker as I was then it also helps me.
I truely do not want anyone to hear they have empjysima..and more so the big C word.

Still keeping fingers crossed on my own stuff about that.

But thanks again...You as well as others helped to keep me going as well.
It has been a droup effort..not just mine.

Have a great evening to you.


.

[Lady Pamela]

17 Months Today!
Have a blessed day today!

Yes I know counting this far in may seem very silly..lol
But it is one of my most greatest achievements..It shows others it can be done...And I truely do celebrate my new life.

So for the record...I continue to count..lol


Hope you all are doing well and keeping strong.
For those who have had a moment, IT IS ONLY THAT..1 moment.
Try untill you get it I say...I had several attempts.


Blessing to you all.

[not2shygrrl]

Ahhh the number 17......one of my favs for it is the day of the month I was born! So I have always been partial to 17! What a great accomplishment LP.....looking forward to many more for you! :)







17 Months Today!
Have a blessed day today!

Yes I know counting this far in may seem very silly..lol
But it is one of my most greatest achievements..It shows others it can be done...And I truely do celebrate my new life.

So for the record...I continue to count..lol


Hope you all are doing well and keeping strong.
For those who have had a moment, IT IS ONLY THAT..1 moment.
Try untill you get it I say...I had several attempts.


Blessing to you all.

[Lady Pamela]

Ahhh the number 17......one of my favs for it is the day of the month I was born! So I have always been partial to 17! What a great accomplishment LP.....looking forward to many more for you! :)

Thank you kindly for always being the support that I as well as others need.
Also thank you for such kind words.

I truely appriciate all the support and friendship.


.

[Loren_Q]

Go Lady Pamela!

[Lady Pamela]

How is everyone?

This weekend I went camping with my family reunion and wow was it stressful at first...lol
Then everyone decided to calm a bit.
I decided to chill in a boat on the lake and was much better then.

I must say though..Even though I am not smoking, sometimes that urge creeps in to smoke and I have to talk myself out of it even still.

But guess all that matters is I didn't smoke.
Stress/sadness/anger etc seem to be the worst triggers.


Anyways, How the hell is everyone elses journey?

[Loren_Q]

How is everyone?

This weekend I went camping with my family reunion and wow was it stressful at first...lol
Then everyone decided to calm a bit.
I decided to chill in a boat on the lake and was much better then.

I must say though..Even though I am not smoking, sometimes that urge creeps in to smoke and I have to talk myself out of it even still.

But guess all that matters is I didn't smoke.
Stress/sadness/anger etc seem to be the worst triggers.


Anyways, How the hell is everyone elses journey?

I bolded the part that means to the most to me. Yeah, the craving sucks but you talked yourself out of it. And that is the 'Go you!' part of this post.

My journey? It's going well so far. I did have some stuff come up over the weekend, but I didn't smoke, that's pretty darned good for me.

[Lady Pamela]

I bolded the part that means to the most to me. Yeah, the craving sucks but you talked yourself out of it. And that is the 'Go you!' part of this post.

My journey? It's going well so far. I did have some stuff come up over the weekend, but I didn't smoke, that's pretty darned good for me.

Every smoke you don't smoke deserves a pat on the back I say. Ha!

Thats awesome you didn't give in!

I have found that most people do not see it as worthy to celebrate or voice struggles..Some have even said I am milking it...but I say, IT WORKS FOR ME AND WHO CARES..Like I said..It is a personal jopurney..smiles

I am so happy you are staying strong.
And thank you so very much for continued support and friendship.


.

[not2shygrrl]

Please recognize those moments where you struggle and don't light one up is your strength! However you build that to help you.....is so individual and personal. Do not forget, that others read these posts and are inspired. So what may seem unimportant to you could help someone not fire one up. I guess what I am trying to say is success here is not trivial, it is significant to life and the longevity of it! I say when it enters your mind that you are a non smoker, or that you have decreased smoking, or smoked less, or how ever you are approaching this, then give yourself the credit that is due! This not smoking is not easy for most people......and 4 years later I still celebrate not smoking and reinforcing that it is a habit I don't want to do. So kudos to ALL OF YOU, even if it is still a want and no action.

"The first principle of success is desire - knowing what you want. Desire is the planting of your seed. "
Robert Collier

[GreeneyedMe]

I'm doing it this time!! Going on two weeks smoke free....getting by with regular gum and an occasionally some Nicorette. It's WORKING!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm feeling better already! The cravings are calming down a lot....and after 33 years of smoking, I can finally say I AM DONE. :D

[Lady Pamela]

I'm doing it this time!! Going on two weeks smoke free....getting by with regular gum and an occasionally some Nicorette. It's WORKING!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm feeling better already! The cravings are calming down a lot....and after 33 years of smoking, I can finally say I AM DONE. :D



Awesome!!!!!!

Keep it up no matter what..even if you get a vapor cig..they seem to be helping tons..and you eventually can break them down to no nicotine as well.

Works for some.

Proud of you!

[Daktari]

I'm doing it this time!! Going on two weeks smoke free....getting by with regular gum and an occasionally some Nicorette. It's WORKING!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm feeling better already! The cravings are calming down a lot....and after 33 years of smoking, I can finally say I AM DONE. :D


Awesome!

Even more impressive that you're giving up and not replacing it with a smoking facsimile.

I don't know how it felt to anyone else who has quit the smoking (not just nicotine) habit but I knew, just knew that this time I was truly done, that I'd cracked it, from the moment I put down my last cig and started breaking all the patterns that go along with smoking.

Keep on keeping on :tinfoil:

[Miss Scarlett]

I'm doing it this time!! Going on two weeks smoke free....getting by with regular gum and an occasionally some Nicorette. It's WORKING!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm feeling better already! The cravings are calming down a lot....and after 33 years of smoking, I can finally say I AM DONE. :D


Congratulations! Hang in there...you CAN do it! You ARE worth it!

Today is my 11th day and it's definitely getting easier...I'm saving over $150 per month but the benefits to my health are priceless!

[Bella~Vita]

July 21 will be 1 month for me .. nicotine free, exercising more and being more active .. yay ..it's about time :|

[Lady Pamela]

July 21 will be 1 month for me .. nicotine free, exercising more and being more active .. yay ..it's about time :|


I am so proud you have chosen to live.
It is so much more than 1 month.
When you look at all that could have happened...ya know?

Keep it up and stay strong.
Remember there are people here who truely care and who are excited to go on this journey with you!

Congrats again!

[Loren_Q]

To GreeneyedMe, Miss_Scarlett and Bella~Vita

GO YOU!

Deciding to stop, then stopping is huge.

For some of us, it takes time after time after time before something takes and we're stopped for good. I hope this time your time, hell, I hope this time is my time too.

Feel good about what you're doing, revel every time you've sucessfully fought off the craving. And if you slip, then come on back.

[~baby~doll~]

i am down to my last four cigarettes. So i guess this means i will be quitting sometime today.

[~baby~doll~]

It has been two days now and i am doing well. i sometimes reach for the pack but this seems more from habit than needing a smoke. i have 16 more days until the habit is actually broken. so far so good thanks for being here for support.

[SmoothButch]

On July 2, I celebrated my seven year anniversary of quitting smoking.

Looking forward to the continued improvements that my body is making every day that I stay on this path.

[Lady Pamela]

It has been two days now and i am doing well. i sometimes reach for the pack but this seems more from habit than needing a smoke. i have 16 more days until the habit is actually broken. so far so good thanks for being here for support.

That is so great!
Keep it up..and when you feel you need one, reach out to those who care. Or grab a cinnimon stick...smiles
Way to go!


.

[Lady Pamela]

On July 2, I celebrated my seven year anniversary of quitting smoking.

Looking forward to the continued improvements that my body is making every day that I stay on this path.

Way to go!!!
I am so looking forward to being able to say the same one day~
Way cool. Keep it up.

[~baby~doll~]

It's now 3:03 am 7/23/2013. i have had a few cravings but nothing terrible. i think i can get through this. Thanks for being here

[~baby~doll~]

8/5 and i still have not had a smoke. i think i have had success in my attempt to quit. Rah rah rah

[DapperButch]

8/5 and i still have not had a smoke. i think i have had success in my attempt to quit. Rah rah rah

Congrats! Keep it going!

[Lady Pamela]

On the 4th I celebrated my 18TH month smoke free.

Been feeling a little ill so didnt sign on.


Congrats to everyone on this journey!

And thank you very much to those who remembered and sent such awesome words to me while I was gone.

Thank you so much.

And keep on not smoking !



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[GreeneyedMe]

Day 37 smoke free!!!! Keep on keepin on everyone!! I only had one rough patch so far, but a banana and a huge glass of water did the trick. :D

[not2shygrrl]

Yippie!! Good for you and the 37 days that can never be taken away!!




Day 37 smoke free!!!! Keep on keepin on everyone!! I only had one rough patch so far, but a banana and a huge glass of water did the trick. :D

[Lady Pamela]

I wanted to say congrats to those still not smoking!

Also that I am sorry for such a long span of no contact.
Things have been a little crazy in my world lately.
But still smoke free. smiles

I need to say that I have had so many things thrown my way this month that I have felt weak at times. Just being honest.

I have had some spurts of bad health. But I am on the climb.
My daughter went in for 4 biopsies yesterday and we will get results within 7 days.
My friends mom which is like an adpoted mom to me, found out today she may have lukemia and we are waiting for her results.
A very dear friend is in the hospital having cancer removed tomorrow.
And a very dear friend/family member went in for a shoulder sugery this last week and is FOR NOW, paralized and a colapsed lung due to someones mess up. But the lung is getting better and we are waiting for the rest to follow.

I also am looking at another xray to see if my lung nodules have increaded and if so that will me a biopsy.
I believe that will be done next week. If I am not at hospital with my daughter.
So needless to say...Anxiety has been pretty consistant. But still haven't smoked.

When things get rough like this, it reminds me of how strong I truely am.
It used to be that I would smoke like a chimney through hard times.

I have decided if it gets bad to where I want to crack, I will get a no nicotine vapor smoke or something.

The doc said it wouldn't harm me if I did.

But that is as a last resort...Don't need it today.

Anyways, I am only human and doing the best I can.
Will keep posting as well.

Keep up the good work and I am really happy and proud for those of you who have chosen to quit and live longer.

Have a great week!



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[PoeticSilence]

Three months, but it's not that impressive because I never smoked very much. At any rate, I do get cravings, but I got a couple of e-cigs with zero nicotine and menthol flavours and I use those when I get a craving.

[Lady Pamela]

Three months, but it's not that impressive because I never smoked very much. At any rate, I do get cravings, but I got a couple of e-cigs with zero nicotine and menthol flavours and I use those when I get a craving.

Of course 3 months is impressive.
Any amount of days you choose life over cigs is something to celebrate.
Don't cut yourself short.
Smoking some or tons, is hard to quit.

Way awesome your doing so well.
Keep up the great work.



.

[Lady Pamela]

Just checking in...How is everyone doing?