SMOKERS... LETS KICK the HABIT!!

[Strappie]

It's time we start to HELP each other and KICK this NASTY habit!!

I've smoked since I was about 12 years old. Taking my first puff at around 10. I've been smoking daily since about 16. I've tried many things, the patch, that nasty gum, and even cold turkey. OMG I nearly killed myself. I've quit a few times for more than 2 yrs. But some how it rears it's ugly head and I pick it up again.

Today I received in the mail my ProSmoke e- cigarette's. I hope to at least cut out the "smoke" from my lungs and start cutting back with the e-cigarette's. Here in MN we can't smoke in the bars so this is an alternative to that too.

Right now I'm just looking to get use to these and not buy cigarettes any more. They come in different mg's. I started with the second highest 25mg. Then after I go threw what I have I may be able to cut down to a smaller dose.

What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?

[Jet]

GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!

[moonfemme]

Strappieeeeee so proud of you, good luck :~)

Anyone needing a personal cheerleader... I am your Femme, it's hard but if you can get to the three day hump and then a week and the next... I will be here to SUPPORT you...
Just think of the extra time you get to be here with the ones you love... all because you made a choice to better your life, extend your life, what an AWESOME choice :~)

[diamondrose]

I have never been a smoker. I have a friend that told me what she did to stop smoking. She said, instead of doing it cold turkey, allow yourself less and less over time. Of course it takes will power and determination, but it sounds like a good method. Buy a pack and leave 15 in the pack for a week or so. Then next pack take it down to 10 for a bit and so on. Good luck!!!!!!!!!

[Strappie]

Strappieeeeee so proud of you, good luck :~)

Anyone needing a personal cheerleader... I am your Femme, it's hard but if you can get to the three day hump and then a week and the next... I will be here to SUPPORT you...
Just think of the extra time you get to be here with the ones you love... all because you made a choice to better your life, extend your life, what an AWESOME choice :~)

What I've found is that with in those 3 Days is truly the hardest. I so agree with you Moonfemme. I was also told my a Doctor friend that the nicotine burst/attack last for 10 minutes till you have another nicotine burst. I have had major anxiety every time I quit. Thus making me bounce off the walls and can not concentrate at all. For me this was good in one way, the anxiety made me so high strung I lost weight because I couldn't stop moving.

I'm hoping the e-cigarette's help with that.

[Strappie]

I have never been a smoker. I have a friend that told me what she did to stop smoking. She said, instead of doing it cold turkey, allow yourself less and less over time. Of course it takes will power and determination, but it sounds like a good method. Buy a pack and leave 15 in the pack for a week or so. Then next pack take it down to 10 for a bit and so on. Good luck!!!!!!!!!

Diamondrose,

That is great advise.

I've done that many times, it just hasn't worked for me. I know for some people it can work but for someone (me) that has smoked for this many years and smokes a pack a day sometimes more sometimes less.

[katsarecool]

Good luck and you are indeed doing something very special for yourself!!!!

[Gemme]

What I've found is that with in those 3 Days is truly the hardest. I so agree with you Moonfemme. I was also told my a Doctor friend that the nicotine burst/attack last for 10 minutes till you have another nicotine burst. I have had major anxiety every time I quit. Thus making me bounce off the walls and can not concentrate at all. For me this was good in one way, the anxiety made me so high strung I lost weight because I couldn't stop moving.

I'm hoping the e-cigarette's help with that.

There were some great posts....somewhere....it escapes me now....about how folks felt when they quit smoking. I think it was Gayla who said that she didn't know who she was without ciggies. It brought on fear.

You've been smoking for a loooooong time. I would wager that it's a similar situation with you, subconsciously. You'll have to get to know yourself as a non-smoker and that is someone you don't know now.

I'm not a smoker. My mom and her two-fisted chain smoking ways fixed that. My honey smoked though. He quit this year and I'm so very proud of him. He'd tried before without success until he was ready to quit. Everything lined up for him. He set his mind to it and his body was ready (the ciggies actually began to make him nauseous) and he had emotional support (me!) lined up. Trifecta!

It's good that you are seeking support and I wish you the very best in quitting.

[girl_dee]

as a non smoker with very chronic lung issues I THANK YOU!!!!

Good luck Strappie!

[lipstixgal]

I have bad asthma so good luck on your journey you can do it!!

[Ebon]

Good luck buddy! I know how hard it is to quit.

[Strappie]

Good luck buddy! I know how hard it is to quit.

Dude it is so hard as you know. I am so proud of you for quitting... I guess we won't be meeting down stairs for a smoke in Little Rock.. Now it will have to be for a beer!! lol

[Liam]

It's time we start to HELP each other and KICK this NASTY habit!!
What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?

I stopped smoking, that was how I quit. I became a non-smoker last year. I miss smoking, but my lungs are much happier.

[dixie]

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. :)

[Strappie]

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. :)

Dixie... that is awesome!!! My biggest problem is doing something with my hands.. now if I had a gf I wouldn't have to worry about that, I get tired of myself.. lol

Good Luck... !!!

[girl_dee]

Hows Strappie and anyone else not smoking today??

[Glenn]

Okey Dokey Artichokey, If the E cig works for you.. I'll invest. Do they sell em bourbon dipped?

[JAGG]

It's time we start to HELP each other and KICK this NASTY habit!!

I've smoked since I was about 12 years old. Taking my first puff at around 10. I've been smoking daily since about 16. I've tried many things, the patch, that nasty gum, and even cold turkey. OMG I nearly killed myself. I've quit a few times for more than 2 yrs. But some how it rears it's ugly head and I pick it up again.

Today I received in the mail my ProSmoke e- cigarette's. I hope to at least cut out the "smoke" from my lungs and start cutting back with the e-cigarette's. Here in MN we can't smoke in the bars so this is an alternative to that too.

Right now I'm just looking to get use to these and not buy cigarettes any more. They come in different mg's. I started with the second highest 25mg. Then after I go threw what I have I may be able to cut down to a smaller dose.

What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?

GOOD FOR YOU STRAPPIE!!!!!!!! I have read about addicts who said they quit their drug addictions including Meth and cocaine but the hardest one was smoking cigarettes, most could not kick the habit. According to readers digest if you are going to go cold turkey, the best time to do it is on a Sunday afternoon. You have a 65 percent better chance of sticking to it if you do it on a Sunday afternoon. Also a good tip , you can't quit something that you're addicted to without replacing it with something else, if you want to be sucsessful. The human brain doesn't handle self-denial very easily. So if you want to quit a bad habit replace it with a good one. Everytime you have an urge instead of smoking go for a walk, or start cleaning the bathroom. And what ever you chose to take the place of the bad habit, when the urge hits you, instead of saying oh God I need a smoke say to yourself, Oh God I need to go for a walk or I need to clean my bathroom, whatever the replacement is. It changes your thought process. If you crave something and never get it, after awhile you will crave it less and less, doesn't mean it goes away , it just gets easier. And good luck, you can do it, lots of people have. Look at all the money you will save.

[Greyson]

It's time we start to HELP each other and KICK this NASTY habit!!

I've smoked since I was about 12 years old. Taking my first puff at around 10. I've been smoking daily since about 16. I've tried many things, the patch, that nasty gum, and even cold turkey. OMG I nearly killed myself. I've quit a few times for more than 2 yrs. But some how it rears it's ugly head and I pick it up again.

Today I received in the mail my ProSmoke e- cigarette's. I hope to at least cut out the "smoke" from my lungs and start cutting back with the e-cigarette's. Here in MN we can't smoke in the bars so this is an alternative to that too.

Right now I'm just looking to get use to these and not buy cigarettes any more. They come in different mg's. I started with the second highest 25mg. Then after I go threw what I have I may be able to cut down to a smaller dose.

What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?



Strappie, Best of Luck to you. My game plan for you is to keep you in my thoughts/prayers about your desire to live cigarette free. I too smoked for many years when I was younger. I think for me it was part of the "image thing." The problem with that was physical health risks and I could not live




in a bar 24/7 as a young person trying to find community, friends and women of course.

For me when I gave up drinking and drugs of any kind many years ago, I had to stop going to clubs where I did the bulk of my partying. It helped to create a entire new set of activities, and some new friends with common goals.

Back to the cigs, I don't know how it is in MN but out here on the left coast, marijuanna smoking seems to be more acceptable than cigs. Cigarette smokers are becoming less and less. I have not been a daily smoker in years but my thing was to have a ciggy when I go out to a club or some sort of fundraising event. I have not had a cig since the B-F Holiday Dance held at the beginning of this year. The last time I was out with a group of people just chatting and hanging out on a Friday night about 4 weeks ago, there were no cigs for me. I belive I am done.

I have some other ideas that might help you quit, if you are interested send me a pm or call. Again, Best of Luck Strappie.

[Strappie]

Hows Strappie and anyone else not smoking today??

Well here is the deal.. I'm still smoking... What I'm doing is trying to cut back on the "real" cigs. and changing over to the e-cigarette and in time hopefully cutting that out as well.

[Strappie]

Okey Dokey Artichokey, If the E cig works for you.. I'll invest. Do they sell em bourbon dipped?

haha Not bourbon as of yet.. but they do have flavored ones. Choc, Vanilla and Cherry.

[Strappie]

Strappie, Best of Luck to you. My game plan for you is to keep you in my thoughts/prayers about your desire to live cigarette free. I too smoked for many years when I was younger. I think for me it was part of the "image thing." The problem with that was physical health risks and I could not live




in a bar 24/7 as a young person trying to find community, friends and women of course.

For me when I gave up drinking and drugs of any kind many years ago, I had to stop going to clubs where I did the bulk of my partying. It helped to create a entire new set of activities, and some new friends with common goals.


I would have to stop driving... lol :|


Back to the cigs, I don't know how it is in MN but out here on the left coast, marijuanna smoking seems to be more acceptable than cigs. Cigarette smokers are becoming less and less. I have not been a daily smoker in years but my thing was to have a ciggy when I go out to a club or some sort of fundraising event. I have not had a cig since the B-F Holiday Dance held at the beginning of this year. The last time I was out with a group of people just chatting and hanging out on a Friday night about 4 weeks ago, there were no cigs for me. I belive I am done.

Good for you Greyson!! I'm not and never will be a pot smoker.. so I wont' be replacing "smoking" with "toking"

I have some other ideas that might help you quit, if you are interested send me a pm or call. Again, Best of Luck Strappie.

Thank you Greyson... Would you post them here.. This thread was intended for EVERYONE trying.. and any advice given possibly could help someone else too!!

[DapperButch]

There were some great posts....somewhere....it escapes me now....about how folks felt when they quit smoking. I think it was Gayla who said that she didn't know who she was without ciggies. It brought on fear.

You've been smoking for a loooooong time. I would wager that it's a similar situation with you, subconsciously. You'll have to get to know yourself as a non-smoker and that is someone you don't know now.

I'm not a smoker. My mom and her two-fisted chain smoking ways fixed that. My honey smoked though. He quit this year and I'm so very proud of him. He'd tried before without success until he was ready to quit. Everything lined up for him. He set his mind to it and his body was ready (the ciggies actually began to make him nauseous) and he had emotional support (me!) lined up. Trifecta!

It's good that you are seeking support and I wish you the very best in quitting.



Yes, it was gayla. I don't know where I saw the post either, but I commented on it. She is so right about that...it is about loss and that whole "who am I as a non smoker? I like my smoker self!". It is a part of our identity. I felt lost without it (quit one year ago this month), but somehow the "blanks" filled in.

Chantix is what worked for me.

http://www.chantix.com/

Some insurance companies will pay for it (mine didn't) and some States will pay for it. My state pays for it and it has nothing to do with income, you just have to be willing to let a nurse call you every week to check in and ask how you are doing.

My work paid for it (b/c I work at a medical institution, so they know the high cost of smoker's medical care!), and they made me pay the first month's worth (like $120 or something!), and then they paid for subsequent months.

As a side note, if you do this, some studies have shown that if you take it for 6 months (instead of the standard 3 months), you will have a better chance of staying free of smoking. I talked the nurse into it at my job and I really think it made a difference.

Good luck to all! Hang in there! And know it is worth it!

ETA: I also switched to hot tea in the morning instead of coffee and didn't drink beer for a month. Two things that go good with a cig.

[Liam]

Identifying the places and situations where you automatically light up, is a great place to begin your own plan. For instance, I used to smoke when I was driving—mindless chain smoking, until I reached my destination. I also used to smoke when I sat down at the computer, and when I was watching TV. Changing your habits around smoking can make it much easer to actually quit when you decide to stop smoking. I stopped smoking in the car six months before I quit, and a month before I stopped smoking I would have one smoke when I sat down at the computer or watched TV, and wouldn't have another for at least an hour. Breaking the emotional and habitual attachment to smoking, increases your chances of becoming a successful non-smoker.
I wish everyone the best of luck.

[Strappie]

Yes, it was gayla. I don't know where I saw the post either, but I commented on it. She is so right about that...it is about loss and that whole "who am I as a non smoker? I like my smoker self!". It is a part of our identity. I felt lost without it (quit one year ago this month), but somehow the "blanks" filled in.

Chantix is what worked for me.

http://www.chantix.com/

Some insurance companies will pay for it (mine didn't) and some States will pay for it. My state pays for it and it has nothing to do with income, you just have to be willing to let a nurse call you every week to check in and ask how you are doing.

My work paid for it (b/c I work at a medical institution, so they know the high cost of smoker's medical care!), and they made me pay the first month's worth (like $120 or something!), and then they paid for subsequent months.

As a side note, if you do this, some studies have shown that if you take it for 6 months (instead of the standard 3 months), you will have a better chance of staying free of smoking. I talked the nurse into it at my job and I really think it made a difference.

Good luck to all! Hang in there! And know it is worth it!

Awesome Dapper!

A lot of folks can't not a ford that method. Yes I know cigs cost that much too. But you have to go to the Doctor so that costs also it's just not the cost of the "pills."

I can a ford the pills and I have several friends that are in the medical field so I am able to get chantix.. However I am not one to take meds. never have been it's even hard for me to take something for a headache. I wanted to try something that would also give me something to do with my hands. Because that is "part" of the habit. So at this point in my journey, I want to try some other forms of quitting before I resort to a pill.

So happy for everyone that has use Chantix and it's worked! I hear it gives you amazing dreams! *smirk*

[Strappie]

Identifying the places and situations where you automatically light up, is a great place to begin your own plan. For instance, I used to smoke when I was driving—mindless chain smoking, until I reached my destination. I also used to smoke when I sat down at the computer, and when I was watching TV. Changing your habits around smoking can make it much easer to actually quit when you decide to stop smoking. I stopped smoking in the car six months before I quit, and a month before I stopped smoking I would have one smoke when I sat down at the computer or watched TV, and wouldn't have another for at least an hour. Breaking the emotional and habitual attachment to smoking, increases your chances of becoming a successful non-smoker.
I wish everyone the best of luck.

Those are all great idea's!!!

For me.. I haven't smoked in my house for hmm 5 yrs or better and I live in Minnesota so that means standing outside freezing your arse off to smoke. That alone at this time of year has made me cut down. I smoke about 2- 5 cigs from the time I get home (5:30) till bed time which is around 11-12. So I would say that in it's self is cutting back. In the summer I'd be out there ever 20 min or so.

I do agree with you about changing habits.... It certainly HELPS!!

[DapperButch]

Awesome Dapper!

A lot of folks can't not a ford that method. Yes I know cigs cost that much too. But you have to go to the Doctor so that costs also it's just not the cost of the "pills."

I can a ford the pills and I have several friends that are in the medical field so I am able to get chantix.. However I am not one to take meds. never have been it's even hard for me to take something for a headache. I wanted to try something that would also give me something to do with my hands. Because that is "part" of the habit. So at this point in my journey, I want to try some other forms of quitting before I resort to a pill.

So happy for everyone that has use Chantix and it's worked! I hear it gives you amazing dreams! *smirk*

Yes, strappie, definitely it is to each their own when it comes to taking medications of any kind. And the cost is why I mentioned that some States pay for it. Here you only have a number you need to call and they will send you a paper in the mail you just give to your pharmacist and you get it for free!

Driving and smoking...yep, another tough one. Some have picked up one of those "fake cigs" ...it is just one long filter (can get it in a drug store) and held that while driving. I kept a toothpick in my mouth. My Dad did it by always having a Life Saver in his mouth (but, then started getting cavities! lol). You have to find out your own, best method.

Put the smokes in an area of the house where you are not sitting. Then you are forced to get up every time in order to have a cig, so it gives you time to think about it. If you smoke inside your home, only smoke outside and ask any roommates you have to do the same!

Dixie you are right that Holidays may not be a good time to quit/take that next step.

[DapperButch]

Those are all great idea's!!!

For me.. I haven't smoked in my house for hmm 5 yrs or better and I live in Minnesota so that means standing outside freezing your arse off to smoke. That alone at this time of year has made me cut down. I smoke about 2- 5 cigs from the time I get home (5:30) till bed time which is around 11-12. So I would say that in it's self is cutting back. In the summer I'd be out there ever 20 min or so.

I do agree with you about changing habits.... It certainly HELPS!!


So it looks like winter is a good time for you to quit! That is when I did it, too.

[girl_dee]

good going Strappie.. less of the real cigs are better than before..

and I will take a scarf please.. anything but pink ... <smirk >

[Rockinonahigh]

After a lifetime of smokeing and quiting twice for years,then being dumb enough to start again,eight months ago I finaly said, enough!I smelled like a burnng pile of rotten hay and never knew how bad it really was untill I left a jacket I wear a lot in the trunk of my car locked up for a good while.Man when I opened it trunck up I said PPPPUUUUUUUUUU what is that stink??I rubed under my nose with a fimger to scratch and my hand had the same smell..oh hell no I said.I near washed both the jacket and my hands raw so finaly I used lemon juice to rub on my hands,wich helped and the jacket went to the dry cleaners.THere were other factors like the cost,worrying did I put out the ciggy beore I left home or did I some how drop a hot ash on something and possably catch it on fire with my fur kids at home,this one worried me lots cause when I get in a rush to get gone to where ever I could easly leave a hot one in the ash tray.Then I ,after so many years just desides I wanted to be healther to live longer( hopefuly).Part of the plan is ..I changed my routine.where ever I bought smokes before I no longer go to..for any reason.Let everyone know I was actively quiting so please dont smoke in my house or around me ..no one is allowed to smoke in my car..ever...I took all the ash trays out of the car to put a stop to that.Plus I was simply ready to quit.Yes,ive fallen off the wagon a couple of times for a fue days in the early parts of quiting.Withdrwall sucks but I made it.Easy,heck no! But I can now take a deep breath with out caughing,my asthma is way better,I can sleep at night for the most part,my skin is cleaner looking and feels healthy.This is so worth it,join me in being healthy a lot wealther cause think of the bucks u can save from not buying ciggys..something like $5,000.00 a year for a two pack a day habbit that I was.

[Rockinonahigh]

Insted of ciggys I ate red hots,kept hot cinnimon suckers or candy or what ever kind u really like.Dont worry about gaining weight cause most candy comes in sugar free.Working out helps with the jittery feeling plus the endorpines feel great for the body and mind.

[Strappie]

I have to say I'm a bit shocked at this e-cigarette (ProSmoke) From Friday till this morning I had a full pack of cigs, normally I would of had about 2-3 packs because it's the weekend. I only had four cigarette's on Sunday and let me remind you, the Vikings were on and well I'm certain the way they have been playing I would of smoked at least a half a pack during the game. I'm not even sure why I even had the four I had. I think I was nervous that I would start to get my anxiety back.

This thing is really working!! I'm a bit shocked!

[DapperButch]

I have to say I'm a bit shocked at this e-cigarette (ProSmoke) From Friday till this morning I had a full pack of cigs, normally I would of had about 2-3 packs because it's the weekend. I only had four cigarette's on Sunday and let me remind you, the Vikings were on and well I'm certain the way they have been playing I would of smoked at least a half a pack during the game. I'm not even sure why I even had the four I had. I think I was nervous that I would start to get my anxiety back.

This thing is really working!! I'm a bit shocked!

Great job! Keep it up!

[girl_dee]

Bump!! Updates please!

[Spirit Dancer]

Strappie
http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w88/deafmack/thumbnailCAIOXDF5.jpg
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd288/siilyy/z123955945.jpg

[Pretty Woman]

Seriously. And I've been a complete non-smoker now for 4 months. Smoked more than a pack a day for about 20 years.
The urges come...and go...in a few seconds really. Breathing helps.
Good luck. I feel so much better already. My nasty morning smokers' cough went away in about 4 days.

[Sachita]

I got these disposable filters that are clear. They remove a lot of tar. When you see all that tar it makes you really think. Its sticky, black and gross! Its covering your lungs. ewwwwww

[Sam]

It's time we start to HELP each other and KICK this NASTY habit!!

I've smoked since I was about 12 years old. Taking my first puff at around 10. I've been smoking daily since about 16. I've tried many things, the patch, that nasty gum, and even cold turkey. OMG I nearly killed myself. I've quit a few times for more than 2 yrs. But some how it rears it's ugly head and I pick it up again.

Today I received in the mail my ProSmoke e- cigarette's. I hope to at least cut out the "smoke" from my lungs and start cutting back with the e-cigarette's. Here in MN we can't smoke in the bars so this is an alternative to that too.

Right now I'm just looking to get use to these and not buy cigarettes any more. They come in different mg's. I started with the second highest 25mg. Then after I go threw what I have I may be able to cut down to a smaller dose.

What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?

i hope it works out for you and everyone else.

i stopped cold turkey 8 weeks ago, so i could have top surgery.

i smoked since i was 12, 31 years. i quit once for 8 months with zyban, then again in 2007 before my son was born for 4 months.

i hate to say it, my graphs are healed and after confirmation tmo, i will probably start smoking again.

i didnt want to quit, but now nearly 9 weeks and 9 lbs later, i still feel that maybe i should stay smoke free.

i dunno, but good luck everyone!!!

[Just_G]

Good job Strappie!! Great thread!

I used to only smoke when I drank....then it became more and more often than that. So Sunday in the parking lot at the Chief's game, I had one cig left in the box and told myself I was not going to buy any more. When money is THIS tight, it is S-T-U-P-I-D to buy cigarettes! So, I have not smoked since after the game Sunday. Several times I have gotten in my truck to go up to 7-11....then I sit there and talk myself out of it. So far, so good.

This is not the best time of year for me, personally, to quit....this is a stressful time of year, but why wait? Why keep putting it off? The time is NOW!! I can do this!! WE can do this!!

I am very irritated today....is that a side effect of quitting? Like, I wanted to ring my dad's neck for whistling at work today! I wanted to play bumper carts at the grocery store when people wouldn't get out of my way. :blink:

Then I skipped down the freezer section and made the old folks smile....that cheered me up....AND, I realized that I was not winded like usual by the time I got to the end of the frozen veggies! :clap:

[Strappie]

Good job Strappie!! Great thread!

I used to only smoke when I drank....then it became more and more often than that. So Sunday in the parking lot at the Chief's game, I had one cig left in the box and told myself I was not going to buy any more. When money is THIS tight, it is S-T-U-P-I-D to buy cigarettes! So, I have not smoked since after the game Sunday. Several times I have gotten in my truck to go up to 7-11....then I sit there and talk myself out of it. So far, so good.

This is not the best time of year for me, personally, to quit....this is a stressful time of year, but why wait? Why keep putting it off? The time is NOW!! I can do this!! WE can do this!!

I am very irritated today....is that a side effect of quitting? Like, I wanted to ring my dad's neck for whistling at work today! I wanted to play bumper carts at the grocery store when people wouldn't get out of my way. :blink:

Then I skipped down the freezer section and made the old folks smile....that cheered me up....AND, I realized that I was not winded like usual by the time I got to the end of the frozen veggies! :clap:



G,

That is AWESOME!!!

Yes one of the many side effects to quitting. You all think I have A.D.D. now.. you outta see me when I quit cold turkey, I bounce off the walls. I can't focus on anything. I told the owner of the company I work for.. If you don't see me writing it down, consider it "gone". Another words I can't even pay attention to the "Owner" haha.. I guess that isn't so funny. I haven't been one to have that "hand gesture" hand to mouth problem (well yet) you know sticking a cig in your mouth vs quitting and sticking food in your mouth instead. Thankfully I am too busy bouncing off the walls to eat, I tend to lose weight.

GOOD LUCK G... I say.... WE CAN!!!

[scootebaby]

i had been a smoker since i was 16...4 weeks before Mothers Day 2008 i started taking Chantix...2 days AFTER Mothers Day i smoked my last cigarette....up till recently i would get cravings--really bad when highly stressed--but they passed pretty quickly. I didnt have any bad side effects,i.e bad dreams,suicidal thoughts or things they warn about Chantix.....prior to that i had tried everything...patches,pills,hynotherapy,even nicotine suckers,but they didnt help for very long.

i dont endorse many things but Chantix really worked for me!

Good luck to everyone trying to kick the habit!

[Strappie]

i hope it works out for you and everyone else.

i stopped cold turkey 8 weeks ago, so i could have top surgery.

i smoked since i was 12, 31 years. i quit once for 8 months with zyban, then again in 2007 before my son was born for 4 months.

i hate to say it, my graphs are healed and after confirmation tmo, i will probably start smoking again.

i didnt want to quit, but now nearly 9 weeks and 9 lbs later, i still feel that maybe i should stay smoke free.

i dunno, but good luck everyone!!!


AWESOME Sam... I do wish you all the luck and I do hope you remain a NON Smoker after surgery. My mom and sister both took zyban. My sister did very well while my mom had to stop taking it. I did something to the inner lining of her stomach which now she has to take meds for the rest of her life. Zyban has so bad side effects in my opinion.

GOOD LUCK Sam!!! Good luck with surgery too!!

[Strappie]

i had been a smoker since i was 16...4 weeks before Mothers Day 2008 i started taking Chantix...2 days AFTER Mothers Day i smoked my last cigarette....up till recently i would get cravings--really bad when highly stressed--but they passed pretty quickly. I didnt have any bad side effects,i.e bad dreams,suicidal thoughts or things they warn about Chantix.....prior to that i had tried everything...patches,pills,hynotherapy,even nicotine suckers,but they didnt help for very long.

i dont endorse many things but Chantix really worked for me!

Good luck to everyone trying to kick the habit!

I have a few friends taking "Chantix" and they swear by it... You are right about the side effects. They all experience them in some way or another. I personally don't and have never liked taking "pills" of any kind not even for a headache. I am super happy for you that you are on your way to a healthier life.... KEEP IT UP!!!

[Strappie]

So everyone's asking about my update...

Well as I told you all before I am gradually doing this with the help of the e-cigarette mine is by ProSmoke.

It's an alternative to smoking. E-cigarettes are electronic devices that vaporize nicotine, water, and flavor to simulate the feel and look of cigarettes. Unlike nicotine gum or the nicotine patch, the e-cigarette actually functions much like a regular cigarette. The nicotine is still delivered to the lungs, but in vapor form, rather than smoke which contains carcinogens and tar. ProSmoke E-cigarettes do not burn like a typical cigarette, yet feel the same and contain nicotine. And btw nicotine is OPTIONAL. You can get them without the nicotine.

So any ways.... back to my update. I had been doing very well on Sunday and had smoked only 4 cigs on Sunday till it broke.. lol well it didn't break the charger I had was not functioning properly. So I have a replacement in the mail. Thankfully they guarantee these things and are sending me an entirely new Kit. They pay shipping and handling to me and for the old kit I had to send back, nice customer service! Anyways... I broke down and bought cigs, Yikes... so I am waiting for them to show up in the mail. I should have it Friday or Monday.

I will give you another update when I get the Kit again!!

[Sam]

AWESOME Sam... I do wish you all the luck and I do hope you remain a NON Smoker after surgery. My mom and sister both took zyban. My sister did very well while my mom had to stop taking it. I did something to the inner lining of her stomach which now she has to take meds for the rest of her life. Zyban has so bad side effects in my opinion.

GOOD LUCK Sam!!! Good luck with surgery too!!

thanks. i am 6 weeks post op today

and my graphs are healed.

and the pack is sitting on the coffee table un opened still.:seeingstars:

i wish you all the best.

[girl_dee]

hang in there.. its worth it in the end!!

[Just_G]

Day 5, operation Cold Turkey: I paced on my deck last night...trying to talk myself out of going to buy a pack. I succeeded! I actually went in the house, went to bed, and slept for 11 hours straight!! I have to say that it is really nice not to be coughing and hacking when I wake up and roll out of bed in the morning. I didn't know I would notice such a difference so fast!

True test is this weekend....being around friends that smoke and drink....and when I don't smoke and drink with one in particular, she is almost offended. I am going to do my best to say no...to the beer and smokes! I just have to remember how wonderful I feel when I wake up every day!

God give me the strength!!! (please)

[girl_dee]

Yay for you G !!!!

maybe that feeling will be stronger than any smoking urge...

[girl_dee]

White House: Obama still trying to kick the habit


By DARLENE SUPERVILLE, Associated Press – Thu Dec 9, 3:49 pm ET
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama apparently hasn't had a cigarette since March, but the White House stopped short Thursday of declaring that he has officially kicked the habit bedeviling millions of Americans.
"I have not seen or witnessed evidence of any smoking in probably nine months," White House press secretary Robert Gibbs replied when asked at his regular media briefing about Obama's habit.
Has the president quit smoking? Gibbs wasn't ready to make that declaration.
"For that nine months, yes," he said. "I don't want to be flip. I think the president would be the first one to tell you that it's a struggle."
The update on Obama's continued fight against the addictive powers of nicotine followed Thursday's release of the latest U.S. Surgeon General's report to warn the public about tobacco's risks, including how it immediately begins to poison the body.
About 46 million adults, or one in five, still smoke. Millions more are regularly exposed to other people's fumes.
Gibbs said he thought Obama was still chewing nicotine gum to help him quit.
Smoking "is not something that he's proud of. He knows that it's not good for him. ... He doesn't like children to know about it, obviously including his," the spokesman said. "He has worked extremely hard and I think he would tell you even, when in the midst of a tax agreement and a (nuclear arms treaty) and all the other things that accumulate that, even where he might have once found some comfort in that he's pushed it away."
"He understands its dangers and, I think, has done a lot of extraordinary work to wrestle with that habit as millions of Americans have," Gibbs said.
After his first medical checkup as president in February, the White House physician reported that Obama was the picture of health, except for a slightly elevated cholesterol level, tendinitis in his left knee and occasional smoking.
The doctor, Navy Capt. Jeffrey Kuhlman, said Obama should continue with "smoking cessation efforts," or the use of nicotine gum.

[justkim]

In January it will be 4 years for me... I told myself I would quit before I turned 40... did it! I would like to say that since that time I have craved and caved only once... I only took a drag and that was enough for me... I realized that they really do taste like poop... My sense of smell is crazy now... I am usually the first one to say, "Can you smell that?" then I get the weird looks from those around me... You will notice the difference in how things taste, something you use to enjoy may not be so pleasing now these are just a couple of things you will notice... Good luck everyone! You can do it!

[Daktari]

Good luck to all trying or aiming to give up. You can do it!!

I said I'd give up at 40 and didn't. Bad move! I carried on and was diagnosed with COPD - a directly smoking related disease - approximately 5 yrs ago, not long after I was 40 infact.

I'd tried several times to give up tobacco but never succeeded, I tend to fall down on the 'will power' thang and have always hated being denied something I want....who doesn't? :groucho:

Earlier this year after what was the worst chest infection I've ever had - me and my girl thought I was going to die, I started taking the tablet we know here in the UK as Champix. I don't think I would have done it without the Champix but oh man fear is a great motivator too and I had my first tobacco free day on 26th April 2010. I'm still going over 8months later!

But...

...Yup there's that 'but'. I still have COPD and pretty damaged lungs which will never go away. I can arrest the disease but I can't heal it by stopping sadly but my daily hacking cough left me from day one of being tobacco free which was weird.

But...

...despite having a respiratory disease I have started cycling again, it's hard but I'm starting to be able to get up 'inclines' again. I also bought and am still learning to ride a unicycle.....the abs workout of the century which is exhausting and leaves me gasping for breath but I'm loving it.

Take heart all you quitters there is life beyond smoking. It's life Jim, just not as we know it! :winky:

[Just_G]

Well, I made it 6 days! I even had several beers with friends tonight and not once did I want to go have a smoke! That is huge for me!

However......yes....however; with news of my uncle passing, a fight with a close friend, and my unwillingness to say no, I caved and had a smoke tonight. Just one.

It's a new week and I will not kick myself for this; rather, I will make this something that makes me stronger so I do not cave next time in a stressful situation.

I can do this..I am not perfect....I will faulter, but I will over come this urge. I know I can do it. It is time for healthy BEFORE the new year gets here!

[CherryFemme]

I've tried many things, the patch, that nasty gum, and even cold turkey. OMG I nearly killed myself.

What is your remedy??? Or Your Game plan?

What a great thread!

I am not an addicted smoker, but I am an addict-- to the gum.

Before you laugh or think I am kidding, I would like to state my case:

My ex bought the gum in 1999 in order to stop smoking. She hated it and said she was going to throw it out. I was horrified because the gum was $75.00. I decided to chew the gum rather than to waste it. (Yes, I am very cheap) Now, 10 years later, I have a full blown addiction to the gum and if I do not chew it in the AM with coffee or after a meal or when I am stressed out-- I fall apart. Seriously. This is a nicotine addiction and I have shame I cannot stop. I wish I could say I did not like the taste, but I rather like burnt toast and when I chew it, the gum reminds me of my cooking.

Now that I am out about my "problem"-- I would like to stop. The gum is expensive and I know that I should stop.

I have tried the fake e-cig that Strappie mentioned, but I have never smoked cigarettes, so it did not help. I have tried the patch once and it was useless.

What scares me is the new information about how the gum increases oral cancers. I am also concerned about stomach cancer since I do not spit the gum out; I always end up swallowing it. (oh the horror!)

Thank you for Just G and Sam for their stories of "cold turkey". I have only tried to do that twice-- but perhapse it is time for me to try again.

I also like Wonder Woman's suggestion of hypnotherapy. I never thought about that as an option. (I have tried to get chantix, but the non-smoking clinic did not take me seriously...even when I explained to them I chew + swallow up to 20 squares of 4mg nicotine chews a day.)

Great idea for a thread, Strappie--
Thank you all for the great suggestions and I look forward to watching everyone's progress!

~CF

[girl_dee]

Good luck to all trying or aiming to give up. You can do it!!

I said I'd give up at 40 and didn't. Bad move! I carried on and was diagnosed with COPD - a directly smoking related disease - approximately 5 yrs ago, not long after I was 40 infact.

I'd tried several times to give up tobacco but never succeeded, I tend to fall down on the 'will power' thang and have always hated being denied something I want....who doesn't? :groucho:

Earlier this year after what was the worst chest infection I've ever had - me and my girl thought I was going to die, I started taking the tablet we know here in the UK as Champix. I don't think I would have done it without the Champix but oh man fear is a great motivator too and I had my first tobacco free day on 26th April 2010. I'm still going over 8months later!

But...

...Yup there's that 'but'. I still have COPD and pretty damaged lungs which will never go away. I can arrest the disease but I can't heal it by stopping sadly but my daily hacking cough left me from day one of being tobacco free which was weird.

But...

...despite having a respiratory disease I have started cycling again, it's hard but I'm starting to be able to get up 'inclines' again. I also bought and am still learning to ride a unicycle.....the abs workout of the century which is exhausting and leaves me gasping for breath but I'm loving it.

Take heart all you quitters there is life beyond smoking. It's life Jim, just not as we know it! :winky:

I hope everyone that reads this gets even more encouragement to quit.. Someone very dear to me was just diagnosed with COPD and thankfully is not smoking but unfortunately it may have taken that diagnoses to get to that point. :(

It is VERY hard to watch those you care about go through the repercussions of this addiction.. very. It's also hard to watch people smoke killing their lungs consciously when my lungs are in such bad shape..and I was never a smoker. I know it's so not about me but it's hard on my heart.

[Daktari]

I hope everyone that reads this gets even more encouragement to quit.. Someone very dear to me was just diagnosed with COPD and thankfully is not smoking but unfortunately it may have taken that diagnoses to get to that point. :(

It is VERY hard to watch those you care about go through the repercussions of this addiction.. very. It's also hard to watch people smoke killing their lungs consciously when my lungs are in such bad shape..and I was never a smoker. I know it's so not about me but it's hard on my heart.




Thank-you sassy_girl. I really do hope that others are inspired to give up if only to avoid being diagnosed with an unpleasant lung disease that can be avoided just by giving up tobacco. Sadly nothing scares a smoker though. It took something pretty cataclysmic to force my hand and make a serious decision to quit instead of 'play at it' like I had done previously. 33yrs of smoking and then COPD had me on course for my own personal oxygen tank before I hit 50, now I'm on course for riding a 29" wheel unicycle before I'm 50! :jester:

[Daktari]

How's everyone doing? How did the quitters cope with the holiday season? Is anyone giving up tobacco as a New Year resolution?

Despite lots of parties with cigarette smokers and joints being passed around I'm pleased to report I remained a non-(tobacco)smoker.

Keep up the good work to all those in the early days of giving up and good luck to those who've made the resolution and are on day one. It gets easier, it really does!

[WickedFemme]

my sweetie gave me the e-cigarette for the holiday and I'm trying it... I've cut down smoking by about 50% or so since and am smoking less and less everyday. I'm hoping to have completely given up cigarettes by the end of this month or sooner. Good luck everyone!

[Daktari]

my sweetie gave me the e-cigarette for the holiday and I'm trying it... I've cut down smoking by about 50% or so since and am smoking less and less everyday. I'm hoping to have completely given up cigarettes by the end of this month or sooner. Good luck everyone!

Good work WickedFemme! When I was cutting down in the run up to giving up totally I found just being conscious of every cigarette I had and often chose not to have the one I was about to light but wait for the next time I wanted one. Also developing a very positive 'self-talk' about giving up really helped in preparation too. Good luck throughout the month.

[WickedFemme]

Good work WickedFemme! When I was cutting down in the run up to giving up totally I found just being conscious of every cigarette I had and often chose not to have the one I was about to light but wait for the next time I wanted one. Also developing a very positive 'self-talk' about giving up really helped in preparation too. Good luck throughout the month.


Thanks Incubus! developing the consciousness around the habit has certainly helped. I even counted how many drags I took of a cigarette the other day... something I have never even thought about... hmmmm
I'm certainly thinking it through. This is good advice you offered here - thank you!

[Daktari]

Thanks Incubus! developing the consciousness around the habit has certainly helped. I even counted how many drags I took of a cigarette the other day... something I have never even thought about... hmmmm
I'm certainly thinking it through. This is good advice you offered here - thank you!


You're very welcome WickedFemme. I'm happy to pass on any handy hints and tips that I helped me. It's one of the hardest habits to break as we all know. I started my own quitting smoking thread on one of the UK based B/F sites and posted pretty much daily for the first two or three months and found that writing it down every day in public helped keep me motivated.

[julieisafemme]

Day One. Hella crabby. Done it many times before.

I started smoking at 16. Smoked a pack or more a day until I was 25. Quit for five years and then off and on again smoked but never more that 5 a day.

My Mom has COPD and had a small stroke recently. That is where I am headed it I do not quit. My child hates it. Greyson hates it. I wish I did!!

Okay so here is to smobriety in 2011.

Soldier on quitters.

[Daktari]

Day One. Hella crabby. Done it many times before.

I started smoking at 16. Smoked a pack or more a day until I was 25. Quit for five years and then off and on again smoked but never more that 5 a day.

My Mom has COPD and had a small stroke recently. That is where I am headed it I do not quit. My child hates it. Greyson hates it. I wish I did!!

Okay so here is to smobriety in 2011.

Soldier on quitters.


Good luck julieisafemme. You've been here before so you know that the first week is the hardest. Stick in ,COPD is really horrible and it's worth doing everything you can to avoid it. Don't be stupid like me and keep putting off the final giving up......make like Nike and Just Do It!

smobriety hah! I like it.

[Kobi]

Interesting article on how bad habits become wired into our brains and ways to change it to help reach goals:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110103/ap_on_he_me/us_med_healthbeat_bad_habits

[Baby Bear]

I am not a heaavy smoker and only smoke in certain circumstances so why is it so D@$$ hard to kick it?

[Jesse]

I think I am quitting as well. I woke up today, lit one about an hour or so after that, smoked it and then just decided I did not want anymore. I haven't smoked any, other than that one all day. Cravings have not been anything I cannot deal with, so I'll see what tomorrow brings, but pretty sure I am done with cigarettes.

[Daktari]

I am not a heaavy smoker and only smoke in certain circumstances so why is it so D@$$ hard to kick it?

Because it's an addiction. Read the article that Kobi posted. Wishing you much luck in giving up. Stick in there because it does get easier as each smoke-free day passes.


I think I am quitting as well. I woke up today, lit one about an hour or so after that, smoked it and then just decided I did not want anymore. I haven't smoked any, other than that one all day. Cravings have not been anything I cannot deal with, so I'll see what tomorrow brings, but pretty sure I am done with cigarettes.

Go you Jesse! Good luck. The addiction/cravings may rear up and bite you on the bum but you sound like you're motivated so you'll deal with it.


Yesterday I sooooo wanted to smoke, it wasn't a craving for nicotine as such more a craving for the activity. It's down-to-the-wire essay writing time and I so wished I could have a ciggie whilst mulling stuff over. I won't give in to the feeling though.



Remember it's a day at a time folks. You can do anything for one day!

[Jesse]

Hey Everyone!

This is my fourth smoke free day! So far no cheating. I have had some cravings of course, but so far non that are unmanageable.

Hope everyone is doing okay on their journey with this.

[Daktari]

Hey Everyone!

This is my fourth smoke free day! So far no cheating. I have had some cravings of course, but so far non that are unmanageable.

Hope everyone is doing okay on their journey with this.

Day four yay! Bloody fantastic news Jesse and well done not cheating. Keep the faith, the cravings do get fewer. It's really not worth giving in to the craving for a cig. If it's the activity of the habit, that hand to mouth motion that you need just get a plastic inhalator - I didn't even use the nicotine cartridges, I just wanted the plastic.

[Jesse]

Thanks Incubus!

I just take a plastic drinking straw and cut it in half. They work well for me, but mostly I don't use anything. If it gets too bad I do have my electronic cig, but trying to not use them because of the nicotine.



Day four yay! Bloody fantastic news Jesse and well done not cheating. Keep the faith, the cravings do get fewer. It's really not worth giving in to the craving for a cig. If it's the activity of the habit, that hand to mouth motion that you need just get a plastic inhalator - I didn't even use the nicotine cartridges, I just wanted the plastic.

[Daktari]

Thanks Incubus!

I just take a plastic drinking straw and cut it in half. They work well for me, but mostly I don't use anything. If it gets too bad I do have my electronic cig, but trying to not use them because of the nicotine.

Go you! Even if you use your electric cig, all is not lost, you just try harder the next day. Have you tried to give up before?

[Jesse]

No, this is my first time at trying to quit. I am 52, and have been smoking steady since I was 16.

Go you! Even if you use your electric cig, all is not lost, you just try harder the next day. Have you tried to give up before?

[Daktari]

No, this is my first time at trying to quit. I am 52, and have been smoking steady since I was 16.



It's tough when one has been a lifelong smoker. Stupid teenagers wanting to appear grown-up and cool *shakes head* I really wish I'd never started smoking at all because ultimately getting ill is soooo not cool! I've been experiencing quite a lot of breathlessness this week but that was my own fault for running out of spiriva, my copd medication, it will take a few days to get back to full 'spiriva-ness.

How are you doing Jesse? Still keeping on giving up?

And you too julieisafemme? Are you making progress?

Just G, are you still staying stopped?

...and how about the OP, Strappie, how goes it with your giving up mission?

[Jesse]

Hey Incubus,

Sorry you are struggling with the breathlessness. Do you have the meds now?

You are correct in that ultimately the things smoking causes to happen to our bodies are just not cool at all.

Yes, I am still smoke free. Wednesday will be two weeks. :) There are still times the thought monkeys dance around in my head trying to convince me to smoke just one, but I just keep saying no.

Hoping that others on here are having great success! :)



It's tough when one has been a lifelong smoker. Stupid teenagers wanting to appear grown-up and cool *shakes head* I really wish I'd never started smoking at all because ultimately getting ill is soooo not cool! I've been experiencing quite a lot of breathlessness this week but that was my own fault for running out of spiriva, my copd medication, it will take a few days to get back to full 'spiriva-ness.

How are you doing Jesse? Still keeping on giving up?

And you too julieisafemme? Are you making progress?

Just G, are you still staying stopped?

...and how about the OP, Strappie, how goes it with your giving up mission?

[Daktari]

Hey Incubus,

Sorry you are struggling with the breathlessness. Do you have the meds now?

You are correct in that ultimately the things smoking causes to happen to our bodies are just not cool at all.

Yes, I am still smoke free. Wednesday will be two weeks. :) There are still times the thought monkeys dance around in my head trying to convince me to smoke just one, but I just keep saying no.

Hoping that others on here are having great success! :)


Aww I'm so pleased to hear that you're still smoke free Jesse, it's good news indeed. Two weeks is quite an achievement. Well done on denying the dancing monkeys. That's all it takes, a certain strength (will power) and the ability to say NO! to yourself and the monkeys. :cheesy:

Yup I now have my meds and they're building up their protectiveness again.

[gaea]

to this thread cause quitting smoking is at the top of my list in life right now...

[girl_dee]

Good luck on your smoke free efforts!! My Syr quit Dec 29 and so far doing great. Thank you Syr! (That meant a lot to me!)

Good luck everyone!

[Daktari]

to this thread cause quitting smoking is at the top of my list in life right now...

Very good luck with your mission. Give yourself every chance. If you can get the lovely pills we call Champix (here in UK) I can highly recommend them. I wrote lots about giving up in previous post as have other folks, scroll back and check them out.

Good luck on your smoke free efforts!! My Syr quit Dec 29 and so far doing great. Thank you Syr! (That meant a lot to me!)

Good luck everyone!

Good luck to your Syr sassy_girl.

I'm proud to say that barring a major disaster I will reach a whole year not smoking in just 17days :fastdraq:

[girl_dee]

[COLOR="DarkGreen"]Good luck to your Syr sassy_girl.

I'm proud to say that barring a major disaster I will reach a whole year not smoking in just 17days :fastdraq:


Congratulations! :congrats:

[Daktari]

Congratulations! :congrats:

Thank-you so much....I have to say the first 6-9months were a breeze compared to the last 3 or 4. I've had major cravings around assignment times and just because I think the universe is testing me - I'm weak willed in the face of hedonism - but have been real strong and denied them all.....not even just one little puff because that's how it gets you back in it's clutches.

[girl_dee]

Thank-you so much....I have to say the first 6-9months were a breeze compared to the last 3 or 4. I've had major cravings around assignment times and just because I think the universe is testing me - I'm weak willed in the face of hedonism - but have been real strong and denied them all.....not even just one little puff because that's how it gets you back in it's clutches.

I would imagine so. As someone who fights daily (and nightly) with asthma, I appreciate you appreciating your lungs and those who love you enough to stop smoking. It's hard to watch someone throw their lungs away when you really wish yours worked better.

[Daktari]

I would imagine so. As someone who fights daily (and nightly) with asthma, I appreciate you appreciating your lungs and those who love you enough to stop smoking. It's hard to watch someone throw their lungs away when you really wish yours worked better.

I'm so sorry you have asthma sassy_girl. Sadly I already threw my lungs away and have the asthma, the COPD and 50% lung function :|

I did it to myself though and can't complain.

[girl_dee]

I'm so sorry you have asthma sassy_girl. Sadly I already threw my lungs away and have the asthma, the COPD and 50% lung function :|

I did it to myself though and can't complain.

I believe mine stems from growing up with two smoking parents. Sad but true. Sorry you are fighting those dreaded issues even if it's your own doing. Maybe others will read this and feel inspired to quit too!

[Daktari]

I believe mine stems from growing up with two smoking parents. Sad but true. Sorry you are fighting those dreaded issues even if it's your own doing. Maybe others will read this and feel inspired to quit too!

That's what I hope sassy_girl. I'm only 47 and have 50% lung function. I cycle and try keep it to the best of capacity but I'm afraid the damage is done, I have to make an effort to keep lung function, I can't take it for granted. If anyone could learn from my mistake of leaving it too late to give up smoking no matter what the Dr's say then my job is done.

[gaea]

That's what I hope sassy_girl. I'm only 47 and have 50% lung function. I cycle and try keep it to the best of capacity but I'm afraid the damage is done, I have to make an effort to keep lung function, I can't take it for granted. If anyone could learn from my mistake of leaving it too late to give up smoking no matter what the Dr's say then my job is done.

Incubus, I do not know you however reading that at 47 you have copd has just choked me into to tears, i think im done...im putting on my patch and gonna finish my book. and pray like hell this time my quit will stick. I hope that you have some really good and solid family support. and i hope your lungs have the opportunity to heal.

[Daktari]

Incubus, I do not know you however reading that at 47 you have copd has just choked me into to tears, i think im done...im putting on my patch and gonna finish my book. and pray like hell this time my quit will stick. I hope that you have some really good and solid family support. and i hope your lungs have the opportunity to heal.

Awww gaea no need for any choking or tears on my behalf, I did it to my myself. I appreciate your thought though. Sadly because it is copd it means my lungs will never regain function but I can stop the disease getting any worse from this point.

If my story inspires you to stick in there and apply yourself to giving up then that would make giving up and telling my story entirely worthwhile. I would be honoured to have been an inspiration.

The one negative side-effect of giving up is I've gone from being 100lbs all my adult life to 125lbs. It means all my summer shorts that I've just got out of winter storage don't fit me and I had to buy new Levis in the winter too. :blink::|:blink: ...it's summer so at least I can get out on my bike and unicycle in an effort to try and reduce the weight gain a little.

Don't let potential weight gain put you off though, you can do something about that but you can't fix damaged lungs.

[MrSunshine]

almost 2 weeks now...

[Words]

Champix.

It's a pill, available here, the UK, on the NHS and available elsewhere, I believe, online. B. and I are now finally off the dreaded cigarettes having been smokers for most of O/our lives and I can honestly say that weaning O/ourselves off them was much, much easier than W/we expected, thanks to the pills. Warning though, if you do decide to go this way, you need to do it under professional supervision, especially if you're prone to depression.

Good luck everyone.

Words

[Daktari]

Champix.

It's a pill, available here, the UK, on the NHS and available elsewhere, I believe, online. B. and I are now finally off the dreaded cigarettes having been smokers for most of O/our lives and I can honestly say that weaning O/ourselves off them was much, much easier than W/we expected, thanks to the pills. Warning though, if you do decide to go this way, you need to do it under professional supervision, especially if you're prone to depression.

Good luck everyone.

Words

Hey Words glad to hear that you've both stopped. I used Champix too and have extolled it's benefits in this thread before, I'm glad you can back me up in that. I was/am prone to depression and thought the potential benefits worth the risk. I didn't have a problem thank goodness......I did enjoy the vivid dreams though :groucho:

MrSunshine, that's amazing! That old adage, one day at a time is useful and if a day is too much break it down into half days, or even hours at a time if things get really tough. Keep at it!!

[gaea]

Sunday was not my quit date yet yesterday 04/11/11 is my last and final quit.

Night one ugh heartburn, ive done this before i know what to expect....mind over matter..

Morning one i realize the only cigarette i ever craved was the morning one the rest were, well habit and i don't want that habit any longer.

im done with it all..

Here to support here to share.

[scootebaby]

May 13th will be my 3 yr anniversary. its been up and down,and i still get a craving here and there depending on situation,but for most part it just makes me sick to smell the smoke. I,too, used chantix(which im assuming is the same asChampix)...was the ONLY thing that worked--and i spent tons of money on everything out there


so good luck to you Gaea..i hope you can accomplish quitting.

[Daktari]

Brilliant gaea, there's plenty of folks behind you. Like you said, you know the drill and it's all about riding it out, with gritted teeth if necessary. It does get easier....but you know that.

I'm certainly rooting for ya and will always be here to encourage if you need. :thumbsup:

:cheerleader::cheerleader::cheerleader:

Yup Scoote Champix must be Chantix, too much of a co-incidence in the names. They were the *only* thing that worked for me too ....but then I think because I'd feared for my life just before I gave up I had the added 'benefit' of the fear factor, which I have to say was huge!

[DapperButch]

Champix.

It's a pill, available here, the UK, on the NHS and available elsewhere, I believe, online. B. and I are now finally off the dreaded cigarettes having been smokers for most of O/our lives and I can honestly say that weaning O/ourselves off them was much, much easier than W/we expected, thanks to the pills. Warning though, if you do decide to go this way, you need to do it under professional supervision, especially if you're prone to depression.

Good luck everyone.

Words

In the U.S. it is called Chantix. And yep, worked for me. I was a complete nut job when I tried to quit the first time. The second time, with Chantix...MUCH EASIER. And I was a 1 3/4 - 2 pack a day smoker.

It made me nauseous every morning (with or without food), but it only lasted 20 minutes, so it was worth it.

I have heard some folks have terribly vivid dreams. I had more dreams, but they weren't vivid per se. Regardless, I would have hung in there anyway (if at all possible), b/c it made SUCH a difference. I CAN'T say enough good things about this drug!

[Glenn]

Did the electronic cigarettes really work for anyone here? How long did you have to take these pills Folks? I need a prescription right? Did you gain ALOT of weight? Can you breathe better? Etc..

[DapperButch]

Did the electronic cigarettes really work for anyone here? How long did you have to take these pills Folks? I need a prescription right? Did you gain ALOT of weight? Can you breathe better? Etc..

Yes, it is a prescription. Check and make sure that your state does not have a program where they will pay for it, if your insurance won't pay for it.

My insurance did not pay for it, but my work did after I paid for one month, which was over $136.00 or something. So, it is a big commitment if your insurance won't pay for it (like mine).

It is prescribed for 3 months, however, there was at least one study that showed people stayed quit longer if they used it for 6 months.

I talked my provider into giving it to me for 6 months based on the above and I really feel that made a difference for me.

I gained about 7 lbs.

[Guy]

I quit cold turkey 9 years ago but I have friends and neighbors that have quit smoking through this method.

Lifeline Stop Smoking Clinics - Tampa, Fl. Home Page (http://stopsmokingamerica.com/)

This clinic is in Tampa Florida, not sure if there are other clinics , but it's worth looking into.

[gaea]

Did the electronic cigarettes really work for anyone here? How long did you have to take these pills Folks? I need a prescription right? Did you gain ALOT of weight? Can you breathe better? Etc..

Im already feeling better day 2, mind you this is my third round. Have some faith.

Whats different this time is my mindset i am not fearful of being a non smoker in fact im embracing it. I had a few moments yesterday where i looked for my "cigarettes" and when i realized what i was doing i stopped the thought in its track as well as the action.

[gaea]

This time around is a whole lot easier.

I think it is mindset and the wanting to be a non smoker. I am a non smoker today.

I had someone come into my work and tell me i needed to be 30 days smoke free to be considered a non smoker, my response was why do i need to live on your time frame ? I don't and i am a non smoker.

Why do people need to impose their rules and time periods on others?

I have great people in my life that are incredibly supportive.

Its a good day today.

[Tommi]

This time around is a whole lot easier.

I think it is mindset and the wanting to be a non smoker. I am a non smoker today.

I had someone come into my work and tell me i needed to be 30 days smoke free to be considered a non smoker, my response was why do i need to live on your time frame ? I don't and i am a non smoker.

Why do people need to impose their rules and time periods on others?

I have great people in my life that are incredibly supportive.

Its a good day today.

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.

[DapperButch]

This time around is a whole lot easier.

I think it is mindset and the wanting to be a non smoker. I am a non smoker today.

I had someone come into my work and tell me i needed to be 30 days smoke free to be considered a non smoker, my response was why do i need to live on your time frame ? I don't and i am a non smoker.

Why do people need to impose their rules and time periods on others?

I have great people in my life that are incredibly supportive.

Its a good day today.

F-'em. You ARE a non-smoker!

Keep it going, everyone. You CAN and WILL do it! :hangloose::goodluck:

It is SO nice being on the other side. Not worrying if you have cigs. Not worrying about when you will get that next cig when you are going into a long meeting. Not worrying if you smell like smoke when you are in said meeting. Such freedom! Seriously, that is what it feels like. FREEDOM!

Do I still crave them? Absolutely. Yesterday wanted one so bad and it has been a year and a half. But, it passes. Just like the cravings any of you may be having right now. Just keep remembering that!

[Just_G]

After doing the stop/start thing while trying to quit, I kept making excuses and kept sayin, "oh just one or two a day" blah blah blah!

Enough.

I was reading a book and it said if you want a different outcome, change your response. Instead of responding to my stress by going out and smoking, I would go outside and walk up and down my drive way, then come back in and continue what I was doing. It sounds a bit odd, but it seems to have worked.

I am officially3 weeks cigarette free......cold turkey!

I plan on being able to run a mile by June 1st, 2 miles by July 1st, and plan on running a 5K by the end of August. I will run a 5K before I turn 40 in October. Bet on it. Cold turkey.

My shortness of breath is gone and I FEEL so much better!

[blush]

Earlier this year, I had a bad bout with pneumonia. I had my lungs xray, which was very scary if you're a smoker. With pneumonia, smoking HURT. And I never wanted to worry about "what if." Smoking also increased my chances of getting pneumonia again.

So I patched when I got home. I'm still patching (taking it VERY slow), but I haven't smoked in 8 months. After about a month, my sense of taste came back. It's a lot easier for me to move. I don't cough when I laugh. I don't have that constant worry of "when can I have one." I feel like I'm free to do things I wasn't able to do. I get cravings, but Goof refuses to let me cheat. They do pass. And knowing my triggers helps me.

[DapperButch]

After doing the stop/start thing while trying to quit, I kept making excuses and kept sayin, "oh just one or two a day" blah blah blah!

Enough.

I was reading a book and it said if you want a different outcome, change your response. Instead of responding to my stress by going out and smoking, I would go outside and walk up and down my drive way, then come back in and continue what I was doing. It sounds a bit odd, but it seems to have worked.

I am officially3 weeks cigarette free......cold turkey!

I plan on being able to run a mile by June 1st, 2 miles by July 1st, and plan on running a 5K by the end of August. I will run a 5K before I turn 40 in October. Bet on it. Cold turkey.

My shortness of breath is gone and I FEEL so much better!

Congratulations, G! That is fantastic! And not odd at all...that is what they tell you to do. Walk away and do something else when you are craving or when you would typically reach for a cig. And walking is the best choice! I know for me walking would burn off the cravings.

Congrats to you too, Blush!

[gaea]

F-'em. You ARE a non-smoker!

Keep it going, everyone. You CAN and WILL do it! :hangloose::goodluck:

It is SO nice being on the other side. Not worrying if you have cigs. Not worrying about when you will get that next cig when you are going into a long meeting. Not worrying if you smell like smoke when you are in said meeting. Such freedom! Seriously, that is what it feels like. FREEDOM!

Do I still crave them? Absolutely. Yesterday wanted one so bad and it has been a year and a half. But, it passes. Just like the cravings any of you may be having right now. Just keep remembering that!

those were my exact sentiments...this is my deal and I am the only one that matters in this at this moment making it day to day.

Ive been a non smoker for a week now loving it and food tastes so different hotwings i love them however i have suddenly found out they are a bit spicy for me, pepper jack one of my favorite cheeses um yea no thanks it burned my mouth wth? lol....

Spring time smells so good right now i cant seem to get enough.

Im not coughing cause im not smoking, i love that.

I love that when "negative nellie" comes knocking on my door she is turned around or when she sneaks in a window i quickly toss her out. I don't have to deal with the negativity and i don't have to feel like crap cause i quit. i actually feel so much better.

I quickly dismiss any cravings or thoughts of smoking this seems to be working for me.

[Daktari]

Go you gaea. My hacking smokers cough stopped the instant I gave up tobacco. I thought this was very odd and asked my Doctor why I haven't coughed up all sorts of nastiness......she said "Why? Do you want to?"

Hah @ 'negative nellie'. She's easy to dimiss along with cravings when you've had that change of mindset. Do you just 'know' you'll be successful this time?

I wish I could have had that whole return of senses of smell and taste but alas I was born without a sense of smell at all and errrm differently-abled tastebuds. What I do love though is that every morning I wake up with a 'clean' mouth. I had never noticed how horribly 'dirty' my mouth felt in the mornings until I discovered the alternative.

I'm so chuffed (Brit speak for real pleased) for you that you're sticking in there. You won't regret being a non-smoker.

Fantastic news blush, it's scary when one gets so ill because of being a smoker. 8 months is a great achievement, I do believe the fear factor is a great addition to the NRT's we take or stick on....go you!!

WoooooHoooooo JustG, brilliant going there. I never did it cold turkey any of the times I've tried, I know myself and I know I couldn't do it.....big up to you for that.


Dealing with cravings - I found holding my breath for as long as could a couple of times worked.......Lord knows why but it did.
I spent a lot of time doing things in the house instead of putting them off when I was craving tobacco or missing the time consuming 'ritual' of rolling a joint.
Walking or going out on my unicycle was also good distraction.

[gaea]

Go you gaea. My hacking smokers cough stopped the instant I gave up tobacco. I thought this was very odd and asked my Doctor why I haven't coughed up all sorts of nastiness......she said "Why? Do you want to?"

Hah @ 'negative nellie'. She's easy to dimiss along with cravings when you've had that change of mindset. Do you just 'know' you'll be successful this time?

I wish I could have had that whole return of senses of smell and taste but alas I was born without a sense of smell at all and errrm differently-abled tastebuds. What I do love though is that every morning I wake up with a 'clean' mouth. I had never noticed how horribly 'dirty' my mouth felt in the mornings until I discovered the alternative.

I'm so chuffed (Brit speak for real pleased) for you that you're sticking in there. You won't regret being a non-smoker.

Fantastic news blush, it's scary when one gets so ill because of being a smoker. 8 months is a great achievement, I do believe the fear factor is a great addition to the NRT's we take or stick on....go you!!

WoooooHoooooo JustG, brilliant going there. I never did it cold turkey any of the times I've tried, I know myself and I know I couldn't do it.....big up to you for that.


Dealing with cravings - I found holding my breath for as long as could a couple of times worked.......Lord knows why but it did.
I spent a lot of time doing things in the house instead of putting them off when I was craving tobacco or missing the time consuming 'ritual' of rolling a joint.
Walking or going out on my unicycle was also good distraction.



yes, incubus, i know i will be successful because i already am and yes i have a different mindset this time. i had a goal of 4/19 anyway and your story bumped that up by a week thank you for sharing that. i also spent some months increasing my vitamin c prior to quitting as opposed to after sure has made a difference. Im sorry to hear you have a non working smeller, i promise you every time i take in the scent of fresh flowers (f) i will think of you along the way.

I dont think i could wear the patches long term im thinking 6 weeks max, one more week on the 21mg then 14mg for two then 7mg for 2 then done with those as well.

The glorious part about the patches i have they are more than 6 mos expired its more the mind trick for me.

[Daktari]

yes, incubus, i know i will be successful because i already am and yes i have a different mindset this time. i had a goal of 4/19 anyway and your story bumped that up by a week thank you for sharing that. i also spent some months increasing my vitamin c prior to quitting as opposed to after sure has made a difference. Im sorry to hear you have a non working smeller, i promise you every time i take in the scent of fresh flowers (f) i will think of you along the way.

I dont think i could wear the patches long term im thinking 6 weeks max, one more week on the 21mg then 14mg for two then 7mg for 2 then done with those as well.

The glorious part about the patches i have they are more than 6 mos expired its more the mind trick for me.


Woooohooooo you really have that changed mindset. It makes the job so much easier. It takes the 'fight' away; or it did for me. It meant I just gave myself over to quitting no matter what it took.

Awwww, how cool knowing that thousands of miles away someone is smelling a flower and thinking of a fellow non-smoker who can't smell flowers. :bouquet:

As you have read I took Champix/Chantix and took them for the prescribed amount of time which was 12weeks, two of which were before stopping the ciggies. I was apprehensive about finishing them but there was no need to worry it wasn't so hard. I still kept hold of my plastic inhalator thingy but very shortly after didn't need that either. I don't think it's a terribly good idea to take or stick on such things for longer than is recommended, they can just be another 'addiction' or crutch.

One thing I did which might not suit others but worked for me is that I had (and it's still there a year later) the makings of a ciggie left in the bottom of my last packet of tobacco. I needed to have the choice if I was ever so desperate. Despite the stresses and strains of a pretty bad year it was never needed.

[gaea]

Woooohooooo you really have that changed mindset. It makes the job so much easier. It takes the 'fight' away; or it did for me. It meant I just gave myself over to quitting no matter what it took.

Awwww, how cool knowing that thousands of miles away someone is smelling a flower and thinking of a fellow non-smoker who can't smell flowers. :bouquet:

As you have read I took Champix/Chantix and took them for the prescribed amount of time which was 12weeks, two of which were before stopping the ciggies. I was apprehensive about finishing them but there was no need to worry it wasn't so hard. I still kept hold of my plastic inhalator thingy but very shortly after didn't need that either. I don't think it's a terribly good idea to take or stick on such things for longer than is recommended, they can just be another 'addiction' or crutch.

One thing I did which might not suit others but worked for me is that I had (and it's still there a year later) the makings of a ciggie left in the bottom of my last packet of tobacco. I needed to have the choice if I was ever so desperate. Despite the stresses and strains of a pretty bad year it was never needed.

i have a choice on every street corner and at every store i ave been too in the last week and the gas station as well, im choosing not to today. just as you are..

thanks for being an inspiration

[gaea]

I have been taking extra vit b for this and extra b12.

Last night i had my first upset and i ended up calling a friend who is a smoker and actually helped me through the upset. Seriously visualizing bubbles. im smiling still however for those involved in this thread.

How do you handle your upsets. your cranky moments etc. ?

I told my kid i was feeling cranky she kept poking no i didnt smoke, no i dont want to smoke.

What do you do when feeling a bit cranky?

[Daktari]

I have been taking extra vit b for this and extra b12.

Last night i had my first upset and i ended up calling a friend who is a smoker and actually helped me through the upset. Seriously visualizing bubbles. im smiling still however for those involved in this thread.

How do you handle your upsets. your cranky moments etc. ?

I told my kid i was feeling cranky she kept poking no i didnt smoke, no i dont want to smoke.

What do you do when feeling a bit cranky?


Wooohoooo! Yesterday was my one year anniversary of giving up smoking tobacco. I'm seriously chuffed with myself.

I had a tough year last year gaea and when times were bad I just rode them out in my usual non-smoking grumpy fashion, having a rough time is merely an excuse to smoke not a reason. I probably drank more alcohol though which is not the answer. Grumpiness was dealt with mainly by learning to ride a unicycle. You just can't remain grumpy when you're having wheel fun. :cheesy:

[DapperButch]

Wooohoooo! Yesterday was my one year anniversary of giving up smoking tobacco. I'm seriously chuffed with myself.

I had a tough year last year gaea and when times were bad I just rode them out in my usual non-smoking grumpy fashion, having a rough time is merely an excuse to smoke not a reason. I probably drank more alcohol though which is not the answer. Grumpiness was dealt with mainly by learning to ride a unicycle. You just can't remain grumpy when you're having wheel fun. :cheesy:



CONGRATS, INCUBUS! This is no small feat!

[Strappie]

HI Thread Stalkers and Do'ers!! lol

I have to apologize to each of you. I admit that after I had troubles with the e-cig. I was discouraged again and fell back to my old habits.

I have to tell you that it's FUCKING HARD and all you peeps that have kicked it, I can't tell you how PROUD and HAPPY I am for you! I wonder why the HELL can't I do it?? I know I can, I just haven't to set my mind to it. However, that is part of my problem.

When I quit smoking I have such bad anxiety I can't focus on anything while people say they gain weight from quitting I lose it because I can't stay focused enough to sit in one spot for more than 5 minutes with out losing my mind. I'm up down up down and then I "run" to make it thru the "surges" you know the ones, they only last 10 minutes but to me it feels like it lasts hours. I know some of you have suggested meds. I'm very scared of them to be honest. I have NEVER had to rely on pills, in most cases I don't even take the pills the Doctor prescribes for me for pain or being sick.

I know I have to do this it's something I've talked about and tried doing since entering my 30's and now I'm 45 and here I sit, still a smoker and NOT proud of that.

[Scorp]

Strappie my boi!

You can do it! Baby steps, take baby steps and don't beat yourself up for not doing it as quickly as you'd like. It's a process and do it at your own pace.

Hang in there brotha!



HI Thread Stalkers and Do'ers!! lol

I have to apologize to each of you. I admit that after I had troubles with the e-cig. I was discouraged again and fell back to my old habits.

I have to tell you that it's FUCKING HARD and all you peeps that have kicked I can't tell you how PROUD and HAPPY I am for you! I wonder why the HELL can't I do it?? I know I can, I just haven't to set my mind to it. However, that is part of my problem.

When I quit smoking I have such bad anxiety I can't focus on anything while people say they gain weight from quitting I lose it because I can't stay focused enough to sit in one spot for more than 5 minutes with out losing my mind. I'm up down up down and then I "run" to make it thru the "surges" you know the ones, they only last 10 minutes but to me it feels like it lasts hours. I know some of you have suggested meds. I'm very scared of them to be honest. I have NEVER had to rely on pills, in most cases I don't even take the pills the Doctor prescribes for me for pain or being sick.

I know I have to do this it's something I've talked about and tried doing since entering my 30's and now I'm 45 and here I sit, still a smoker and NOT proud of that.

[Strappie]

Strappie my boi!

You can do it! Baby steps, take baby steps and don't beat yourself up for not doing it as quickly as you'd like. It's a process and do it at your own pace.

Hang in there brotha!


Thank you Scorpie it means a lot to hear that. Yet at the same time, I've heard it so many times ya know. It's so disappointing to let your friends and family down time and time again.

[hpychick]

All on the path to being smoke-free!!

I would like to extend myself to each of you as support in your cessation program!

I stopped smoking September 17, 2007. I don't regret stopping, but there are times that I miss it.

If you need some support - if you're having a stressed day (b/c let's just be honest - that's when most relapse) - if you just need to talk about some of your symptoms, please send me a PM or post on my wall and I would be happy to be supportive of your cessation efforts!

Here are a few facts (about my own smoking cessation):
Within 3 days after I quit smoking, I didn't wake up congested
I was able to walk up 7 flights of stairs within 2 weeks
I could smell how icky my clothes in the closet smelled from the smoke in the house (and I didn't have the door open)

You can do it! Trust me! I know it isn't easy, having been there myself - but I do know it's possible!

Go Y.O.U for wanting to be healthier and to smell better! ;)

RAH RAH RAH :cheerleader:

[Scorp]

I hear ya Strap. I am a "reformed" smoker so I feel you on that one. Honestly, when I have a few drinks I still like to have a smoke and glad I have the "self control" to put it down when I need to.

BUT...As you already know, ya gotta do this moreso for YOUR health and not the family and friends (even though everyone is concerned about you, because they love you). Hopefully, they don't ride you too much on that and cut you some slack for trying and NOT police you. That would make a person want to smoke more because you feel like you're "disappointing" folks.

That's why I said "baby steps" in my prior post. It takes time bud, and you can do it. Even if you cut down to 4 or 5 smokes a day. Try and commit to yourself to do that. Basically, start off with "realistic" plan that will work for you at YOUR own pace.

It's cool to have a great support system, but you can't do this for anyone else but YOU.

Much love brotha...

-S



Thank you Scorpie it means a lot to hear that. Yet at the same time, I've heard it so many times ya know. It's so disappointing to let your friends and family down time and time again.

[gaea]

HI Thread Stalkers and Do'ers!! lol

I have to apologize to each of you. I admit that after I had troubles with the e-cig. I was discouraged again and fell back to my old habits.

I have to tell you that it's FUCKING HARD and all you peeps that have kicked it, I can't tell you how PROUD and HAPPY I am for you! I wonder why the HELL can't I do it?? I know I can, I just haven't to set my mind to it. However, that is part of my problem.

When I quit smoking I have such bad anxiety I can't focus on anything while people say they gain weight from quitting I lose it because I can't stay focused enough to sit in one spot for more than 5 minutes with out losing my mind. I'm up down up down and then I "run" to make it thru the "surges" you know the ones, they only last 10 minutes but to me it feels like it lasts hours. I know some of you have suggested meds. I'm very scared of them to be honest. I have NEVER had to rely on pills, in most cases I don't even take the pills the Doctor prescribes for me for pain or being sick.

I know I have to do this it's something I've talked about and tried doing since entering my 30's and now I'm 45 and here I sit, still a smoker and NOT proud of that.

Strappie i am on a sub-lingual b complex i swear im calm as can be not fidgety and im not experiencing those surges your referring too, dude get some bcomplex sub-lingual stuff it isnt meds and it will help.

here for support if you need.

[gaea]

Wooohoooo! Yesterday was my one year anniversary of giving up smoking tobacco. I'm seriously chuffed with myself.

I had a tough year last year gaea and when times were bad I just rode them out in my usual non-smoking grumpy fashion, having a rough time is merely an excuse to smoke not a reason. I probably drank more alcohol though which is not the answer. Grumpiness was dealt with mainly by learning to ride a unicycle. You just can't remain grumpy when you're having wheel fun. :cheesy:



so the cranky came and went i cried myself to sleep (ugh) i couldnt go anywhere it was late, i woke up in a sour mood...felt better at around 1pm after venting and venting and venting the what happened to get me to that state...continuing on with my quit because its for me, my health, my quit.

I don't like being cranky at all.

I noticed several thing already
I have more energy
My clothes smell pretty now
So does my hair :)
I just feel better all the way around.
Im calmer, as in no more anxiety
I have more heartburn i also have stock in anatacid's at the moment this will pass and the antacids are a heck of a lot cheaper and last longer
I have a quit buddy or two or three

[Just_G]

Strappie, don't worry about "letting down friends and family", dude, you have to do it for YOU, not anyone else. They are your support system, not judges....do it for you buddy! :goodluck:

I never really get all that cranky....but I am sure I have my moments. When I am having anxiety, I do something good for me. I do something that I know I enjoy. I used to go for ice cream, but that was not the best idea...:blink: I go walk on the treadmill, do zumba, or go play with my dogs. Things that make me happy...that snap me out of that lull of a crappy mood....it works for me! :clap:

[Daktari]

so the cranky came and went i cried myself to sleep (ugh) i couldnt go anywhere it was late, i woke up in a sour mood...felt better at around 1pm after venting and venting and venting the what happened to get me to that state...continuing on with my quit because its for me, my health, my quit. *

I don't like being cranky at all.

I noticed several thing already
I have more energy
My clothes smell pretty now
So does my hair :)
I just feel better all the way around.
Im calmer, as in no more anxiety
I have more heartburn i also have stock in anatacid's at the moment this will pass and the antacids are a heck of a lot cheaper and last longer
I have a quit buddy or two or three

Well done for riding out 'the cranks' gaea. Does it make you feel more positive about giving up when you ride out some bad stuff and come out the other end not having given in?

* There in lies the secret gaea...when we quit for us; when it's entirely for ourselves and we take control of our own quitting then it becomes manageable and the bad stuff is sooooo much easier to ride out. I suddenly had more energy too - all that extra oxygen in your body creates energy and a certain calmness - I was manic for the first few months though, the calmness came some way down the line but I put that down to a mixture of quitting and hitting major messed-up man-o-pause symptoms at the same - some guys get all the luck huh?

Strappie, I never thought I'd give up either, it was always too hard but then I went and left it too late...would you rather it be a choice or a necessity?... Don't give up giving up. It really does get easier to manage the anxieties and other more negative aspects of giving up after a few months.

Thank-you DapperButch, your congrats are much appreciated :chaplin:

[gaea]

Is helping me to stay calm and not have the anxiousness seriously i take a dropper full every 3 hours and this is working plus my regular vitamins that i take daily.

My co worker quit a couple months ago and she is a wreck i told her what i was doing cause she cant beleive how calm i am so i told her there are breathing exercises as well as get your self some vit b and you will fee better.

On with the breathing exercises, what ive learned is if i hold my breath then fear and anxiety can grow within however in regular breathing you can remain calm or get excited about something, this can be applied to lots of situations regular normal breathing with positive thoughts and you can get through this.

I suddenly have a lot of extra time woo hoo, i calculated the number of cigarettes i haven't smoked by the minutes it took to smoke one and what i came up with yesterday was that i had gained an additional 40 hours of free time in 3 weeks rock on.

[gaea]

ok its been 3 weeks and here is a nifty lil fb ap that says it all

http://apps.facebook.com/quit-o-meter/

i seriously want to vomit after seeing the 400+ not smoked however good on me.

you can do it to!

[hpychick]

Stopping in to check and see how everyone's doing!

Stopping smoking isn't easy! And the fact that you're even *thinking* about it is a step in the right direction!

You can DO THIS!

GO YOU!

*insert sexy cheerleader here* lol

[DapperButch]

HI Thread Stalkers and Do'ers!! lol

I have to apologize to each of you. I admit that after I had troubles with the e-cig. I was discouraged again and fell back to my old habits.

I have to tell you that it's FUCKING HARD and all you peeps that have kicked it, I can't tell you how PROUD and HAPPY I am for you! I wonder why the HELL can't I do it?? I know I can, I just haven't to set my mind to it. However, that is part of my problem.

When I quit smoking I have such bad anxiety I can't focus on anything while people say they gain weight from quitting I lose it because I can't stay focused enough to sit in one spot for more than 5 minutes with out losing my mind. I'm up down up down and then I "run" to make it thru the "surges" you know the ones, they only last 10 minutes but to me it feels like it lasts hours. I know some of you have suggested meds. I'm very scared of them to be honest. I have NEVER had to rely on pills, in most cases I don't even take the pills the Doctor prescribes for me for pain or being sick.

I know I have to do this it's something I've talked about and tried doing since entering my 30's and now I'm 45 and here I sit, still a smoker and NOT proud of that.

Strappie -

Do NOT beat yourself up for this. It IS hard to quit. It is fucking hard!

I know I mentioned here that I used Chantix to quit. I didn't use Chantix the first or second time I tried to quit.

The first time I used patches. And like you, my anxiety was so high that I lost weight and instead of being irritable, I cried at the drop of a hat. I remember day two...getting ready for work...I was actually whistling some tune...and all of a sudden I started sobbing. Just sobbing. It was so whacky. It took me 45 minutes to calm down just to call out of work. My emotions were ALL over the place. I also couldn't sleep and couldn't tolerate being awake. I would come home each night and drink a glass or two of wine so that I would fall asleep by 8pm. I just wanted to get away from thinking about wanting a cig. I last 3.5 months. Which means, I lasted 2 weeks after I finished the patches. That was in my mid-20's.

In my late 30's I tried again. This time I decided to do it cold turkey. I took 4 days off from work over Labor Day and along with my trying to quit smoking g.f., headed to the beach. Cold turkey was horrible for me.

HORRIBLE.

I literally felt like I was jumping out of my skin. Like my skin was crawling. I could not sit down, I was so restless. When it got so bad I would go outside and run down the street at full speed until I couldn't breathe anymore. Over and over again. Probably 10 times a day...and I am not kidding. And I really
didn't care if I looked like an idiot. I really felt like someone who was...well, going through withdrawal!

A week or two after the beach I got on the Chantix, which helped a little, but the withdrwal was over by that point. I lasted a couple of months, I think without cheating. Eventually, I went back. That was about 2.5 years ago (late 30's).

1.5 years ago I did Chantix. I smoked for the first week, quit on schedule and took it for 3 months. I got my provider to agree to give me meds for an extra 3 months. I have been smoke free since that time.

You say you don't want to "rely" on medication. I assure you my friend, you will NOT be feeling that you are relying on it. You will go through the withdrawal, same as usual. The difference is you won't be an anxious wreck, you won't be depressed, and if you cheat it won't give you that "zing" of "hitting that sweet spot" so to speak that all addicts get when they light up a cig after not having one for a while (It will just feel flat and like you are smoking air.). It isn't relying on meds b/c the meds ARE NOT KEEPING YOU FROM SMOKING. You are doing that all by yourself.

The last three days I have been craving cigs like mad. No idea why. Just really crazy bad. I almost bought a pack on Saturday and almost bought a pack today at lunch time. I am glad I didn't. It was hell quitting. Hell.

Know one thing...when you are one of those people who have a really tough time quitting, after you make it on the other side, you will be less likely to pick up again. It is Just. Not. Worth. It.
Hang in there. Seriously consider Chantix.

And if you are like me and connect bars and beer with drinking, don't go out for a while. And only be around non smokers. And switch to hot tea if you drink coffee, or vice versa.

Also, I hear that for many quitting smoking in the summer is easier. For me, that is SO not the case (it is actually probably the summer weather that has kicked my cravings into gear). I seem to connect "good times" and activity with smoking. People think less activity means less smoking. Hell, I used to put my pack of cigs. in my backpack when I would go mountain biking. When we would stop to catch a breather, I would be catching a smoke!

[gaea]

Similar to Dapper i to have quit multiple times with this last one being my last, i will never pick up another cigarette again as long as i am given the breaths needed to sustain life.

The first time i quit back in early 20's was for my "children" , well that dit go well at all, the looked at me crosseyed or cried (they were lil ones then) and wanted a smoke, smoking had become my escape my "me" time if you will.

The second attempt well i had no idea i was going to quit it was one year after my dad had passed and my then ex-partner who was still in my house at the time kept "stealing" my cigarettes and it pissed me off so i went on an "ill show you bs kick" and i laid the cigarettes down. 4 mos later I was moving me and my kids and she called me incessantly from some party she was at talking about happy anniversary i received so many calls from her that night and having my kids complain because i took them out of there home in which i did, however i thought i had to be strong and not break down and cry like i wanted to,,,so i smoked a cigarette...

The above was 8 years ago, had i just cried i would be 8 years non smoker blah blah...perhaps

3 years ago when my youngest granddaughter was born i tried again...I went through all kinds of mental head games and trips and wow i don't think i made it 4 weeks.

So now this time whats so different now? well I prepared my body by increasing my vitamin intake especially my c vitamins as a smoker you lose 50 mg of vit c every time you smoke which is why you cant smell anything....so increasing my vit c levels to 500 mg above what i was depleting every day helped me to begin smelling things especially the tobacco which started stinking everywhere i went and because i was a smoker i stunk too.

I also picked up the "Easy way to quit smoking" by allen carr, great book im still reading it, i also read The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks...these two books along with my want and desire to be smoke free has truly helped me.

Then i read Incubus post and although i had a goal date of 4/19 for personal reasons having read hys post pushed me over the edge a week early and i was done and i knew i was done.

Im leveling out my vit c levels now, still reading both books and smoke free.

Because i want to be...it is after all for me and really it is about me. and f** those that say do it for so an so and blah blah because in reality its all about YOU doing it for you your health your well being etc.

[DapperButch]

I also picked up the "Easy way to quit smoking" by allen carr, great book im still reading it, i also read The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks...these two books along with my want and desire to be smoke free has truly helped me.



I remember reading about the Carr book a couple of weeks after I had already quit.

Aren't you supposed to be smoking while reading it? I mean literally smoking at the time?

I heard it is really helpful to people.

Maybe this would be a good idea for you Strappie since you don't like pills!

[gaea]

I remember reading about the Carr book a couple of weeks after I had already quit.

Aren't you supposed to be smoking while reading it? I mean literally smoking at the time?

I heard it is really helpful to people.

Maybe this would be a good idea for you Strappie since you don't like pills!


yes and i was still smoking when i began reading it, there are a couple of chapters early on that will make you go wow, ok i don't want to do this anymore.

also he encourages you to smoke while reading however ultimately the choice is up to the individual and he recognizes this.

One chapter in particular that got to me was the "Devastation" chapter.

Seriously its a good read.

[DapperButch]

yes and i was still smoking when i began reading it, there are a couple of chapters early on that will make you go wow, ok i don't want to do this anymore.

also he encourages you to smoke while reading however ultimately the choice is up to the individual and he recognizes this.

One chapter in particular that got to me was the "Devastation" chapter.

Seriously its a good read.

Thanks for the info.

I may check it out, just for reinforcement of choosing not to smoke, you know?

[gaea]

Thanks for the info.

I may check it out, just for reinforcement of choosing not to smoke, you know?

yes do, I actually found this book whilst on a hunt for a couple of healing books for a friend of mine, it screamed my name and jumped into my arms lol, I'd recommend it to anyone who is trying to quit has already and or is struggling with a quit.

I would also recommend the big leap as a side book.

[Daywalker]

yes do, I actually found this book whilst on a hunt for a couple of healing books for a friend of mine, it screamed my name and jumped into my arms lol, I'd recommend it to anyone who is trying to quit has already and or is struggling with a quit.

I would also recommend the big leap as a side book.



Yer doin' so good little seester.
:hangloose:
I will be joining the ranks this year.
:|

Off to make mah yard sale list.
:byebye:

:daywalker:

[gaea]

Yer doin' so good little seester.
:hangloose:
I will be joining the ranks this year.
:|

Off to make mah yard sale list.
:byebye:

:daywalker:



thanks so much big brother :)

[Just_G]

Good job Gaea!

I am 5 weeks smoke free today. Have thought about how easy it would be to cheat or just go back to it, but I like having that money in my pocket, and not having to worry about smelling like smoke any more. I can be around it and it doesn't bother me any more.

I feel like I am in a really good place with this now.

[scootebaby]

My 3 yr anniversary is coming up...which is actually my moms bday this yr 5/13....up till about 8 months ago i still got major cravings when i was really stressed or i saw an employee light up..the smell however made me sick to my tummy....since then ive not really had any cravings,altho i told jo the other day it could help me lose the weight i am gaining while being out with this damn back injury---she threatened my life :| (and you all think she is all sweet and stuff)

[gaea]

Good job Gaea!

I am 5 weeks smoke free today. Have thought about how easy it would be to cheat or just go back to it, but I like having that money in my pocket, and not having to worry about smelling like smoke any more. I can be around it and it doesn't bother me any more.

I feel like I am in a really good place with this now.

Awesome Just G 5 weeks just as easy as 3 then huh? I too have no difficulties being around people or my friends that smoke, in fact the ones that smoke are equally as supportive if not more supportive.

So tell me do you have wicked crazy dreams about smoking? i had one an it flipped me out however also opened my eyes because in my dream i had one that wasn't my brand i get crazy sick and started just giving packs and packs away ...if i associate that with money then yes in my dream i was also just giving my money away to who ever would take it...nightmares..

I am at the start of my 4th week.

[gaea]

My 3 yr anniversary is coming up...which is actually my moms bday this yr 5/13....up till about 8 months ago i still got major cravings when i was really stressed or i saw an employee light up..the smell however made me sick to my tummy....since then ive not really had any cravings,altho i told jo the other day it could help me lose the weight i am gaining while being out with this damn back injury---she threatened my life :| (and you all think she is all sweet and stuff)

Im glad she threatened your ass ....eat more veggies and high in fiber foods, and such...drink plenty of water ...and NO SMOKING...

I know i know you don't know me however 3 years...come on now you and Inc are the longtimers of this thread..

by the way, Happy Anniversary to you and Happy bday to your mum

[Just_G]

Awesome Just G 5 weeks just as easy as 3 then huh? I too have no difficulties being around people or my friends that smoke, in fact the ones that smoke are equally as supportive if not more supportive.

So tell me do you have wicked crazy dreams about smoking? i had one an it flipped me out however also opened my eyes because in my dream i had one that wasn't my brand i get crazy sick and started just giving packs and packs away ...if i associate that with money then yes in my dream i was also just giving my money away to who ever would take it...nightmares..

I am at the start of my 4th week.

I have been having strange dreams, but didn't even associate it with the lack of smoking. I also quit doing happy hour with my buddies several nights a week and have pretty much quit drinking at all. I need to start writing those dreams down...they are coo coo!

Congrats on the start of week 4!!

[Daktari]

:cheerleader::cheerleader::cheerleader:

Wooohooooo Just_G and gaea. You're both doing brilliantly.

:happyjump::happyjump::happyjump::happyjump:



'grats to you too on your anniversary Scoote - and happy birthday to your Ma (it's Her Royal Greyness the Woodipotimus's 12th birthday on that day too.)

[DapperButch]

My 3 yr anniversary is coming up...which is actually my moms bday this yr 5/13....up till about 8 months ago i still got major cravings when i was really stressed or i saw an employee light up..the smell however made me sick to my tummy....since then ive not really had any cravings,altho i told jo the other day it could help me lose the weight i am gaining while being out with this damn back injury---she threatened my life :| (and you all think she is all sweet and stuff)

Hey, scoote, tell us your quitting story.

I know that for me hearing quit stories really helped me, so maybe some here will find it useful.

[gaea]

I have been having strange dreams, but didn't even associate it with the lack of smoking. I also quit doing happy hour with my buddies several nights a week and have pretty much quit drinking at all. I need to start writing those dreams down...they are coo coo!

Congrats on the start of week 4!!

Are you keeping yourself hydrated as well then?

[Julie]

I am a closet quitter these days...
Though Gaea knows!
I watch and read about you all - so PROUD of you.
I am two weeks today.
I did the E-Cig for about 3 days and then just stopped.

I have not gained any weight, though I have not lost any. BUT - my vocal chords are healing and my voice is not so raspy - so this is GOOD.

That's all! Just wanted to share - YAY

[DapperButch]

I am a closet quitter these days...
Though Gaea knows!
I watch and read about you all - so PROUD of you.
I am two weeks today.
I did the E-Cig for about 3 days and then just stopped.

I have not gained any weight, though I have not lost any. BUT - my vocal chords are healing and my voice is not so raspy - so this is GOOD.

That's all! Just wanted to share - YAY

Good for you for COMING OUT OF THE CLOSET!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! EXCELLENT JOB!!!! KEEP IT UP!!!!!

[Daktari]

I am a closet quitter these days...
Though Gaea knows!
I watch and read about you all - so PROUD of you.
I am two weeks today.
I did the E-Cig for about 3 days and then just stopped.

I have not gained any weight, though I have not lost any. BUT - my vocal chords are healing and my voice is not so raspy - so this is GOOD.

That's all! Just wanted to share - YAY

Go you Julie, that's awesome...keep at it, you won't regret it. :thumbsup: :cheerleader::clap:

I hope you don't gain weight. I thought I'd gotten away with it until I started gaining weight about 7 or 8 months in. Now I'm 25lbs (a quarter of my original body weight) heavier. :|

[girl_dee]

I am a closet quitter these days...
Though Gaea knows!
I watch and read about you all - so PROUD of you.
I am two weeks today.
I did the E-Cig for about 3 days and then just stopped.

I have not gained any weight, though I have not lost any. BUT - my vocal chords are healing and my voice is not so raspy - so this is GOOD.

That's all! Just wanted to share - YAY

Congrats! :goodluck:

[Corkey]

Ami and I are working on 3 years. Yey us!

[scootebaby]

Hey Dapper--I'll keep it short(if i can) lol

My son wrote me a persuasive letter that motivated me to start trying to quit. I went to a dr who put me on nicotine suckers and wellbutrion. that worked for about 3 days...Stress was a big factor in my life and smoking was my crutch so i went back to smoking for a couple yrs...in 2004 i again tried the patches WITH the gum....all that did was make me want to smoke more...fast forward to early 2008--i had to have a partial hysterectomy and vulvectomy and was gonna be off work for awhile--and my partner had gotten chantix so i thought i'd try one more time...within 10 days eveytime i lit up id get sick to my stomach..2 days after Mothers Day I woke up,tossed the rest of cigs in the trash and said " no more" i didnt say anytihng to my son bc i had already failed before so i was clean a month before i ever told him....the first 2 yrs i would get crazy cravings which were hard to fight,but i managed to keep busy(and my store was the cleanest store in the south :lol2: ) I still think about lighting up from time to time but i dont.. they say ur lung function increases drastically once you quit..altho my breathing has gotten better it is nowhere near where i would like it or i think it should be...the weight gain wasnt an issue til about a yr ago--perhaps when my taste buds recuperated completely...i was managing to keep it off till this latest back injury

So much for keeping it short...lol. chantix was my saving grace...i know without it i would never had quit...all i can say to anyone trying to quit..NEVER GIVE UP!! it is a very powerful addiction,but you can beat it

Good Luck to those trying!

[Just_G]

Are you keeping yourself hydrated as well then?

Oh, I only quit drinking all the beer I was drinking with my buddies. I drink lots of water and an occasional Sobe pomegranite from time to time.

Giving up the beer made it easier for me to quit smoking since I started out only smoking when I drank. Now I can have a beer or two once in a while and not have a cig craving. :hangloose:

[scootebaby]

beer was definitely something i had to give up when i quit...the 2 just went together....hell i just recently(in last few months) even tried to have a beer and i am proud to say i didnt even crave a smoke!

[gaea]

I am a closet quitter these days...
Though Gaea knows!
I watch and read about you all - so PROUD of you.
I am two weeks today.
I did the E-Cig for about 3 days and then just stopped.

I have not gained any weight, though I have not lost any. BUT - my vocal chords are healing and my voice is not so raspy - so this is GOOD.

That's all! Just wanted to share - YAY

Im so proud of you...you don't even know.

[Jesse]

Congrats to all who have quit and to those who are in the process of deciding to!

As of an hour ago, it has now been 4 months since I laid the smokes down and said, "I'm done smoking." I quit cold turkey with a pack and a half in the house. I did not find it really difficult but I was so ready to quit. At the time I quit, I was a 2 pack a day smoker and truly miss the hand to mouth thing more than the actual smoking. I occasionally use an electronic cig now when I experience cravings or just want the smoking sensation, but even then I use a nicotine free solution.

It's odd, I have cravings but I absolutely have no desire to smoke a cig. I love that my house and clothing does not smell like an ashtray.

I know some disagree and that's okay, but I definitely consider myself a non-smoker because I know my mindset and intentions.

[gaea]

Congrats to all who have quit and to those who are in the process of deciding to!

As of an hour ago, it has now been 4 months since I laid the smokes down and said, "I'm done smoking." I quit cold turkey with a pack and a half in the house. I did not find it really difficult but I was so ready to quit. At the time I quit, I was a 2 pack a day smoker and truly miss the hand to mouth thing more than the actual smoking. I occasionally use an electronic cig now when I experience cravings or just want the smoking sensation, but even then I use a nicotine free solution.

It's odd, I have cravings but I absolutely have no desire to smoke a cig. I love that my house and clothing does not smell like an ashtray.

I know some disagree and that's okay, but I definitely consider myself a non-smoker because I know my mindset and intentions.

congratulating you on being a NON smoker, four months is exciting i look forward to saying that very thing. I too feel like a non smoker i felt it the day i quit and that is what i say, i beleive its up to you and not everyone else.

[Jesse]

Gaea,

I think if a person is consistently not smoking then they are a non-smoker. So if you are not smoking then I too consider you a non smoker! Congrats on quitting by the way!

congratulating you on being a NON smoker, four months is exciting i look forward to saying that very thing. I too feel like a non smoker i felt it the day i quit and that is what i say, i beleive its up to you and not everyone else.

[gaea]

I had a moment last night a moment of self doubt that snuck in and old behavior the instinct to want a cigarette because i somehow allowed a belief that whatever was upsetting me couldn't be dealt with without the cigarette..

Oh yes they can those moments can be pushed through and gotten through. and although i stated the words " i want a cigarette" they were quickly taken back i don't want to ever smoke again a day in my life.

now i get to learn to not allow my thoughts to upset me....

[Daktari]

I had a moment last night a moment of self doubt that snuck in and old behavior the instinct to want a cigarette because i somehow allowed a belief that whatever was upsetting me couldn't be dealt with without the cigarette..

Oh yes they can those moments can be pushed through and gotten through. and although i stated the words " i want a cigarette" they were quickly taken back i don't want to ever smoke again a day in my life.

now i get to learn to not allow my thoughts to upset me....

Well done on making it through without a ciggie gaea. Stress and that bad self talk is no 'reason' to smoke, it's merely an excuse if you're looking for one.

Quite often I will acknowledge and give voice to the craving with a "I want a ciggie" ...if there are folks around they usually say "No, you don't", in effect telling me I don't actually know what I want. My reply is "Yes I do but I won't have one.". I dunno, it just feels right to voice it rather than keep it inside or deny the craving.

[gaea]

Well done on making it through without a ciggie gaea. Stress and that bad self talk is no 'reason' to smoke, it's merely an excuse if you're looking for one.

Quite often I will acknowledge and give voice to the craving with a "I want a ciggie" ...if there are folks around they usually say "No, you don't", in effect telling me I don't actually know what I want. My reply is "Yes I do but I won't have one.". I dunno, it just feels right to voice it rather than keep it inside or deny the craving.


for me it was a reaction to what i was feeling suddenly that "worthless" feeling that was driving...

fuck that im not worthless....

[Daktari]

for me it was a reaction to what i was feeling suddenly that "worthless" feeling that was driving...

fuck that im not worthless....


You're not worthless and you are a stronger person for getting over that 'hump' without smoking. I'm so proud of you and you should be proud of yourself.

It's not a bad thing to admit wanting to smoke, the bad thing is acting on the impulse.

[gaea]

I can't believe it been nearly 5 weeks since I made the best decision of my life :)....

I grow more and more excited by this every day I want to share my excitement lol.

I have also picked up a 25 minute daily treadmill workout and today started strength training for my arms n shoulders utilizing the same exercises I learned in pt some years back.

next Friday my eldest will be 25 an I stoked to welcome her birthday as a non smoker. :)

[Daktari]

I can't believe it been nearly 5 weeks since I made the best decision of my life :)....

I grow more and more excited by this every day I want to share my excitement lol.

I have also picked up a 25 minute daily treadmill workout and today started strength training for my arms n shoulders utilizing the same exercises I learned in pt some years back.

next Friday my eldest will be 25 an I stoked to welcome her birthday as a non smoker. :)

*clicks the 'like' button*

I'm so glad that you're excited about being a non-smoker gaea. Long may it continue. Five weeks is awesome!
:cheerleader::cheerleader::cheerleader:

[princessbelle]

First Congratulations to all the non smokers!!!!

I am one of the last people to smoke on the face of this planet i do believe. Sooooooooooo many have quit and i've held on, i've continued, i've thought i'll be the last one that smokes and will have to grow my own tobacco secretly in a cave in the mountains and protect it with a bb gun or darts. I am stubborn to the core and really thought they would carry me away in a pine box with smoke coming out of it cause i'd find a way to smoke when i left here.

But, it's been on my mind a lot. Number one cancer runs strongly in my family and i had a recent scare myself and thank God i am ok. Number two i'm a respiratory nurse (you'd think i'd know better) and three omg the cost!!!!!

Today i made a huge leap. Today i bought electronic cigarettes. I honestly didn't give it much hope. I thought it would be like so many other things in life which has been a disappointment when it came down to helping me quit.

However, i'm BLOWN AWAY. These things ROCK. They are strongggggg even stronger than the brand i smoked. They are non toxic to the air and people around me. I am still getting the nicotine but not the carbon monoxide and not the tar. I really believe i could totally do this and not pick up my pack anymore. Huge surprise as to the taste and feel.

It is a start right? Am i a non smoker now? I feel like i am but i feel like i'm cheating with the e-ciggs. Either way it has GOT to be better than what i was doing, right?

[Corkey]

Its better, but the nicotine is the addictive part, the sooner you kick the nicotine, the better off you will be.

We used wellbutren for a couple of weeks for me, and about a month for Ami, long time smokers, and we quit cold turkey. No e-ciggies. Lots of gum, and a few carrots.

[princessbelle]

Its better, but the nicotine is the addictive part, the sooner you kick the nicotine, the better off you will be.

We used wellbutren for a couple of weeks for me, and about a month for Ami, long time smokers, and we quit cold turkey. No e-ciggies. Lots of gum, and a few carrots.

Thanks Corkey. Yes i know the nicotine will have to be another hurdle. I know i will have to do that as well. Cold turkey and me are not friends, i always kick that bird to the curb. I never could do it.

I'm glad that the both of you did though!!!!

TY for the advice!!!!

[DapperButch]

First Congratulations to all the non smokers!!!!

I am one of the last people to smoke on the face of this planet i do believe. Sooooooooooo many have quit and i've held on, i've continued, i've thought i'll be the last one that smokes and will have to grow my own tobacco secretly in a cave in the mountains and protect it with a bb gun or darts. I am stubborn to the core and really thought they would carry me away in a pine box with smoke coming out of it cause i'd find a way to smoke when i left here.

But, it's been on my mind a lot. Number one cancer runs strongly in my family and i had a recent scare myself and thank God i am ok. Number two i'm a respiratory nurse (you'd think i'd know better) and three omg the cost!!!!!

Today i made a huge leap. Today i bought electronic cigarettes. I honestly didn't give it much hope. I thought it would be like so many other things in life which has been a disappointment when it came down to helping me quit.

However, i'm BLOWN AWAY. These things ROCK. They are strongggggg even stronger than the brand i smoked. They are non toxic to the air and people around me. I am still getting the nicotine but not the carbon monoxide and not the tar. I really believe i could totally do this and not pick up my pack anymore. Huge surprise as to the taste and feel.

It is a start right? Am i a non smoker now? I feel like i am but i feel like i'm cheating with the e-ciggs. Either way it has GOT to be better than what i was doing, right?

Congrats on the first step!

And yes, you are just as much a non-smoker as anyone who uses the patch, the gum, or the lozenge.

CONGRATULATIONS MISS NON-SMOKER!!!!!!

[princessbelle]

Congrats on the first step!

And yes, you are just as much a non-smoker as anyone who uses the patch, the gum, or the lozenge.

CONGRATULATIONS MISS NON-SMOKER!!!!!!


This brought TEARS to my eyes i kid you not!!!!!!!!!!!

tytytytytytytytytytytyty.

[julieisafemme]

First Congratulations to all the non smokers!!!!

I am one of the last people to smoke on the face of this planet i do believe. Sooooooooooo many have quit and i've held on, i've continued, i've thought i'll be the last one that smokes and will have to grow my own tobacco secretly in a cave in the mountains and protect it with a bb gun or darts. I am stubborn to the core and really thought they would carry me away in a pine box with smoke coming out of it cause i'd find a way to smoke when i left here.

But, it's been on my mind a lot. Number one cancer runs strongly in my family and i had a recent scare myself and thank God i am ok. Number two i'm a respiratory nurse (you'd think i'd know better) and three omg the cost!!!!!

Today i made a huge leap. Today i bought electronic cigarettes. I honestly didn't give it much hope. I thought it would be like so many other things in life which has been a disappointment when it came down to helping me quit.

However, i'm BLOWN AWAY. These things ROCK. They are strongggggg even stronger than the brand i smoked. They are non toxic to the air and people around me. I am still getting the nicotine but not the carbon monoxide and not the tar. I really believe i could totally do this and not pick up my pack anymore. Huge surprise as to the taste and feel.

It is a start right? Am i a non smoker now? I feel like i am but i feel like i'm cheating with the e-ciggs. Either way it has GOT to be better than what i was doing, right?

Belle I did not know you smoked! I am trying to quit the 3 cigarette every few days habit that keeps lingering. It is just so hard. Harder than it was to quit a pack a day 20 some years ago. I have never gone back to a pack a day.

I have been tempted to try the e-cigs. What brand did you get?

[princessbelle]

Belle I did not know you smoked! I am trying to quit the 3 cigarette every few days habit that keeps lingering. It is just so hard. Harder than it was to quit a pack a day 20 some years ago. I have never gone back to a pack a day.

I have been tempted to try the e-cigs. What brand did you get?

OMG girlfriend!!!!!!! I hear you!!!! Yeah i didn't exactly advertise that i smoked. I am/was ashamed of it especially since many know i'm a nurse. Not that medical people don't smoke but well....it's embarassing to me.

I've smoked Virginia Slims bout one pack per day for 30 years. Wow 30 years.

Anyway hon, to answer your question I bought the NJoy ones. I went to a truck stop cause that is where my boss got hers and recommended it to me. However, i looked online at NJoy.com and it's the same price pretty much. I first tried Walgreens and places like that. Some had e-ciggs but not the ones with the vabor that i knew i HAD to have.

I paid 29.95 for one ciggy and two filters and then bought 5 more filters for 19.95 more. I was paying around 60 bucks a carton for my Virginia Slims per week. From what i'm reading the filters should/could last several days each. And the e-cigg just charges and then you reuse.

Doing that math and it's a guess-ta-ment. It will be saving me over 200 per month!!!

Honestly Julie, i HIGHLY recommend this. I have not had a ciggy now for about 6 hours and this e-cigg is every bit as fullfulling as the real ones. I would have smoked about 10-12 cigs by now. Do it girl....you will be SHOCKED how much like smoking they are.

I should have done this long ago!!!!!

I am so excited!!!!!!!!!!! Let me know if you do it and i'll dance in circles for you!!!!!

[princessbelle]

Oh and one more thing i want to mention.

E-Ciggs are not approved by the FDA. They wanted to ban them primarily from what i read, because they say they promote smoking and will actually cause people to use these that don't smoke. There are also tests that say some E-ciggs contain harmful additives and toxins.

I, personally, not from a medically professional opinion, but from a smoker opinion, have my doubts about these "findings". Think for a second how much money the states and on a federal level will lose in taxes if everyone quit smoking.

There are deals and under the table things going on IMO to keep us all hooked.

Again, my opinion, but i didn't want to go out there and suggest someone get these without stating there are warnings including a non FDA approval at present. Enter at your own risk, i suppose. But, i've entered and i'm glad i have. Again, not a professional opinion but an opinion of a woman with a habit that i am sick to death of....

Just FYI

[julieisafemme]

Oh and one more thing i want to mention.

E-Ciggs are not approved by the FDA. They wanted to ban them primarily from what i read, because they say they promote smoking and will actually cause people to use these that don't smoke. There are also tests that say some E-ciggs contain harmful additives and toxins.

I, personally, not from a medically professional opinion, but from a smoker opinion, have my doubts about these "findings". Think for a second how much money the states and on a federal level will lose in taxes if everyone quit smoking.

There are deals and under the table things going on IMO to keep us all hooked.

Again, my opinion, but i didn't want to go out there and suggest someone get these without stating there are warnings including a non FDA approval at present. Enter at your own risk, i suppose. But, i've entered and i'm glad i have. Again, not a professional opinion but an opinion of a woman with a habit that i am sick to death of....

Just FYI

Ah Belle! Considering the big fat warning on regular cigarettes has done no good whatsoever to deter me I am thinking I might have to give these a try. I am hoping it is at least less bad than the real thing! Wow how sad is that?

[gaea]

woo hoo for you princess...

trust me when i say you will have your moments and you can get all kinds of crabby and even want to say screw it a time or two

If your on fb get the quitometer...

if you cant find it see if julie can send it to you :)

again congrats....

[DapperButch]

Ah Belle! Considering the big fat warning on regular cigarettes has done no good whatsoever to deter me I am thinking I might have to give these a try. I am hoping it is at least less bad than the real thing! Wow how sad is that?

Be careful, Julie. You don't want to actually take more nicotine in than what you already take. I don't know how easy it is to regulate e-cigs and if you are only having a few cigs every few days, using the e-cig could end up increasing your nicotine habit!

I would suspect that your habit at this point is more psychological than physical and I would approach it from that viewpoint and not from a physical/psychological standpoint. Use a toothpick in your mouth or one of those "blank" cigarrettes in place of a real cig., not something that adds nicotine to your body! You could become more addicted!

You need to work through the psychological "withdrawal" so to speak, not the physical one, IMHO.

Whatever you decide, Good Luck!

[julieisafemme]

Be careful, Julie. You don't want to actually take more nicotine in than what you already take. I don't know how easy it is to regulate e-cigs and if you are only having a few cigs every few days, using the e-cig could end up increasing your nicotine habit!

I would suspect that your habit at this point is more psychological than physical and I would approach it from that viewpoint and not from a physical/psychological standpoint. Use a toothpick in your mouth or one of those "blank" cigarrettes in place of a real cig., not something that adds nicotine to your body! You could become more addicted!

You need to work through the psychological "withdrawal" so to speak, not the physical one, IMHO.

Whatever you decide, Good Luck!

Oh absolutely it is mostly psychological. Nicotine is a helpful part of managing my OCD when I need a little steam valve. Too long and involved to go into here but that is one role that is plays. Also it is hugely helpful in stuffing emotions and creating a "f$%# you" veil of smoke to hide behind.

I had heard that about the e-cigs too. I would get the lowest possible strength.

[princessbelle]

I am now 27 hours smoke free from a pack or more a day smoker habit. I am so proud of myself i'm gonna give myself something special with the money i save just this week alone.

Oh and Julie....they have completely nicotine free ones as well. The idea is to decrease and decrease and finally just have the feel of the ciggie and the smoke (harmless vabor) without any nicotine at all. Maybe you should do that. Just a suggestion.

I'm not crabby yet. Well, i don't think i am.

Why are you looking at my post like that, you have a problem? LOL just kidding. I'm my normal self...i think, how can you tell? OMG now i'm paranoid. I was smoking right handed not left handed ciggies...promise :)

Again, wonderful thread and it's helped me so much. Couldn't wait to get home and post!!!!!

xoxoxoxoxo

[Just_G]

Wooo hooo, keep it up quitters!! Heh, that sounds funny to say!

This past Tuesday I hit the 8 week mark of not smoking. Not one cigarette...have not caved in like I thought I would! I almost had one last night because I had some drama yesterday that made me want to blow my top, but I didn't do it. I had a cigarette in my hand. (a friend was over for a glass of wine on the patio and to listen to me vent...she had smokes with her.) I handed it back to her. I decided that the one stirring up the drama does NOT get the power to make me cave in to smoking again!!

I think I have gotten past or over a huge hurdle!

[princessbelle]

On day five....

I've noticed these things....

I can certainly smell smoke now. Even in a store today i smelled it on someone that was standing next to me.

I believe, even though i'm using the E-ciggs, i am in withdrawal. I am not exactly myself....a little more jumpy, a little less patience, a little bit of a "down" feeling. I'm not PMSin...so i'll blame it on the ciggs.

I'm hanging in there though and i know i can do this.

This time is THE time.

Keep up the good work all!!!!!!!!!! Those of you weeks, months, years you blow me away....so very PROUD OF YOU!!!!!

[girl_dee]

On day five....

I've noticed these things....

I can certainly smell smoke now. Even in a store today i smelled it on someone that was standing next to me.

I believe, even though i'm using the E-ciggs, i am in withdrawal. I am not exactly myself....a little more jumpy, a little less patience, a little bit of a "down" feeling. I'm not PMSin...so i'll blame it on the ciggs.

I'm hanging in there though and i know i can do this.

This time is THE time.

Keep up the good work all!!!!!!!!!! Those of you weeks, months, years you blow me away....so very PROUD OF YOU!!!!!


Congrats!!!

[Daktari]

That's brilliant Just_G, well done for not caving and having a cig, once you've got over that hump you know you can deal with stress without resorting to cigs again....it's great when you see the weeks of being nicotine free build up too huh? There comes a time where you even forget how long it is. I remember my quit date but lost track of the weeks at about month 9. :cheesy:

Woohooo princessbelle, go you! Stick in there you really can do it. Keep us posted on progress


:thumbsup::cheerleader::thumbsup:

[princessbelle]

One week today. I no longer have any ciggs in my house. My ashtrays are now all cleaned and put away.


These are things that i still struggle at the end of week one....
Still want a cigg but not near as much as i did last week.
Every once in a while have that "panic" feeling of OMG i dont' have any ciggs in the house.
The "habit" after eating, drinking coffee, driving is still aching in there.
Still getting the nicotine from the E-cigg but it's decreasing daily.

These are good things....
I can really smell my candles way better than i did before and they are delightful.
I am going way longer than i was a week ago before i use my e cigg.
My nerves and patience are way better than even just a few days ago.
I've been through my first semi crises (spraining my ankle) and didn't go back to smoking.
My skin looks brighter with a little glow like when your preggy.
First thing i thought of when i work up this morning was "i hope the sun shines a lot today" and not "i need a ciggerette".

Horray.

[Daktari]

One week today. I no longer have any ciggs in my house. My ashtrays are now all cleaned and put away.


These are things that i still struggle at the end of week one....
Still want a cigg but not near as much as i did last week.
Every once in a while have that "panic" feeling of OMG i dont' have any ciggs in the house.
The "habit" after eating, drinking coffee, driving is still aching in there.
Still getting the nicotine from the E-cigg but it's decreasing daily.

These are good things....
I can really smell my candles way better than i did before and they are delightful.
I am going way longer than i was a week ago before i use my e cigg.
My nerves and patience are way better than even just a few days ago.
I've been through my first semi crises (spraining my ankle) and didn't go back to smoking.
My skin looks brighter with a little glow like when your preggy.
First thing i thought of when i work up this morning was "i hope the sun shines a lot today" and not "i need a ciggerette".

Horray.



Magic! You are doing so well princessbelle. You'll be off that e-cig before you know it. I'm so glad you're seeing positive results so soon.

One thing I've only really noticed recently, after over a year not smoking, is that I haven't had a tooth abcess or infection for the same length of time. I used to get 3 or 4 a year. Result!

[DapperButch]

Keep it up, princessbelle!

And throw away those ashtrays! No need for them anymore and smoking visitors can smoke outside and take their butts with them!

[Daktari]

I allow folks to smoke in my house. It's an important point to me...just because I've stopped doesn't mean to say they have to.

I have to add I"m anosmic. I can't smell. This must help greatly in this.

[DapperButch]

I allow folks to smoke in my house. It's an important point to me...just because I've stopped doesn't mean to say they have to.

I have to add I"m anosmic. I can't smell. This must help greatly in this.

Even when I smoked I smoked outside.

[Daktari]

Even when I smoked I smoked outside.

Never been the case in this house. If you use rolling tobacco for your joints that's fine unless you smoke tailor-mades which means the doorstep.

[Ebon]

On day five....

I've noticed these things....

I can certainly smell smoke now. Even in a store today i smelled it on someone that was standing next to me.

I believe, even though i'm using the E-ciggs, i am in withdrawal. I am not exactly myself....a little more jumpy, a little less patience, a little bit of a "down" feeling. I'm not PMSin...so i'll blame it on the ciggs.

I'm hanging in there though and i know i can do this.

This time is THE time.

Keep up the good work all!!!!!!!!!! Those of you weeks, months, years you blow me away....so very PROUD OF YOU!!!!!

Stay strong! I quit cold turkey 4 months ago. I even had someone smoke in front of me and I didn't want anything to do with it. In fact I thought wow that smells pretty bad(no offense to anyone that does smoke). It's hard as hell but if you want to beat it you can.

[Ms. Meander]

Congratulations to all of the non-smokers and anyone even thinking of quitting!

I have been struggling to quit for years. There have been a couple times I have quit for a while but have always gone back to it in times of stress. It is the last great (destructive/unhealthy) coping mechanism I have left. Had.

I last smoked over 60 hours ago. My official quit date being the 24th. I have been reluctant to post about it because I have been feeling like a miserable wretch and I have this thing about keeping my misery largely to myself.

I have just awaken at 4am in a pool of sweat. My sleep has been out of whack these few days and I feel like I have been in a haze. I am more sensitive than usual, irritable and weepy. But I keep reminding myself WHY I am doing this. There are of course the myriad of health reasons which are the facts behind the motivation but when it comes down to that moment when I am struggling through a craving, I have to keep telling myself that I WANT this.

Also, in the past year I have made several attempts. The first few days/week are absolutely the hardest part and I keep putting myself through this torture only to pick up the smokes again, setting myself up to have to go through it again in the future. I am done with that. I am done with smoking. I am done torturing myself. I am done poisoning myself. And soon, I will be through this withdrawal and I will be free.

But for the moment, I am still a wretched mess.

[Daktari]

Thank-you for posting how you're feeling Ms.Meander. You've been brave to post the bad bits about giving up. As you've said the worst bit is the first few days.

You want it and you can have it. All it takes is some deep breathing exercises (or some such, the deep breathing worked for me) through your cravings and keep reminding yourself that you're doing this fabulous thing for yourself. Being a bit mad for a while is a small price to pay.

You can do it! :clap::cheerleader::thumbsup::clap::cheerleader:

Please keep us updated on your progress.

[Julie]

Ms. Meander...

You are at the crossroads - This is soooooooooooo amazing and Incubus is so correct about the breathing.

Good for YOU!

Julie (5 weeks / 2 days / Hours unknown)

[Daktari]

Ms. Meander...

You are at the crossroads - This is soooooooooooo amazing and Incubus is so correct about the breathing.

Good for YOU!

Julie (5 weeks / 2 days / Hours unknown)

:happyjump::happyjump::happyjump:

More than a month Julie! That's awesome.

[Julie]

Thank You, Incubus.
I feel GOOD!

[DapperButch]

Congratulations to all of the non-smokers and anyone even thinking of quitting!

I have been struggling to quit for years. There have been a couple times I have quit for a while but have always gone back to it in times of stress. It is the last great (destructive/unhealthy) coping mechanism I have left. Had.

I last smoked over 60 hours ago. My official quit date being the 24th. I have been reluctant to post about it because I have been feeling like a miserable wretch and I have this thing about keeping my misery largely to myself.

I have just awaken at 4am in a pool of sweat. My sleep has been out of whack these few days and I feel like I have been in a haze. I am more sensitive than usual, irritable and weepy. But I keep reminding myself WHY I am doing this. There are of course the myriad of health reasons which are the facts behind the motivation but when it comes down to that moment when I am struggling through a craving, I have to keep telling myself that I WANT this.

Also, in the past year I have made several attempts. The first few days/week are absolutely the hardest part and I keep putting myself through this torture only to pick up the smokes again, setting myself up to have to go through it again in the future. I am done with that. I am done with smoking. I am done torturing myself. I am done poisoning myself. And soon, I will be through this withdrawal and I will be free.

But for the moment, I am still a wretched mess.

Keep it up! Keep going!

You have been through the withdrawal before, so you know that it ends...then after getting over that main hump, it is mostly psychological.

You CAN do it. You WILL do it!

And freedom is exactly the right word. I had never seen it as freedom before until a few months after I had quit, but that is SO correct.

Keep posting for support!

[Ms. Meander]

Thank you all for being so supportive. I think sharing is an important part of this process. By letting others know what I am trying to accomplish, I make myself responsible to someone other than myself. Which just might be enough to make me think twice when in a difficult moment - which just might be enough to keep me from caving in.

I have been "deep breathing" through cravings, as mentioned. It is a helpful tool. I think of all that smoke-free oxygen being delivered to my lungs - it almost makes me light-headed sometimes!

Congratulations Julie - You are amazing and inspiring!

[princessbelle]

Thank you all for being so supportive. I think sharing is an important part of this process. By letting others know what I am trying to accomplish, I make myself responsible to someone other than myself. Which just might be enough to make me think twice when in a difficult moment - which just might be enough to keep me from caving in.

I have been "deep breathing" through cravings, as mentioned. It is a helpful tool. I think of all that smoke-free oxygen being delivered to my lungs - it almost makes me light-headed sometimes!

Congratulations Julie - You are amazing and inspiring!

Horrayyyyyyy!!!!!!!!! Way to go!!! Hang in there...you are doing awesome!!!!!

http://dl10.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1784/1784570su6p0cfpko.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)

[gaea]

(((Hugs to you all))))))))

omg amazing i havent been here in a couple of weeks and this thread seems to have some new comers...awesome...

Way to go Jules!!!!!!!
Way to go Belle!
Way to Go Ms Meander.......keep on keepin on dear.

im at week 6 day 4 ( i think) and let me say the first 5 weeks were a piece of cake, icing if must say...the last two I've had more tantrums than even i want to admit too more break downs than my normal happy days self...

my smokes allowed me to deal with life without "emotion"...shit suddenly i have these damn emotions and i don't understand them....oops..it sucks waking at 40 and realizing I've never dealt with any of my emotions and now i get to...no more poison no more killing myself slowly..


Heather
6 weeks, 4 days, 7 hours and 53 mins.

i wont give up these last 6 weeks..even tho i have my days and moments that i want to, i wont...

[Ms. Meander]

Struggling not to eat everything in sight :eatinghersheybar:

And just for the record: :whine:

[Daktari]

(((Hugs to you all))))))))

omg amazing i havent been here in a couple of weeks and this thread seems to have some new comers...awesome...

Way to go Jules!!!!!!!
Way to go Belle!
Way to Go Ms Meander.......keep on keepin on dear.

im at week 6 day 4 ( i think) and let me say the first 5 weeks were a piece of cake, icing if must say...the last two I've had more tantrums than even i want to admit too more break downs than my normal happy days self...

my smokes allowed me to deal with life without "emotion"...shit suddenly i have these damn emotions and i don't understand them....oops..it sucks waking at 40 and realizing I've never dealt with any of my emotions and now i get to...no more poison no more killing myself slowly..


Heather
6 weeks, 4 days, 7 hours and 53 mins.

i wont give up these last 6 weeks..even tho i have my days and moments that i want to, i wont...

Go you!! You're doing brilliantly, I'm so chuffed for you. You're hitting the 'hump' now but it does pass.......eventually. One just develops new strategies for coping with emotion.

Struggling not to eat everything in sight :eatinghersheybar:

And just for the record: :whine:

Try not to substitute food for cigs...you'll hate yourself for it in the long run. Do something active instead of eating. I purposely didn't do the oral substitution but have still managed to put on a quarter of my original body weight. :overreaction:


Keep the faith both of you!

[Ms. Meander]

Holiday weekends are filled with temptation and opportunity.

I admit, I succumbed. Only a little bit, and I don't consider my efforts ruined. I am right back on track this morning.

I really didn't want to come here and share this but I'd rather be honest and shame-faced, then dishonestly accept kudos I don't quite deserve.

SO - fresh start this morning. All is well. So far, so good. I hope everyone else fared the weekend better than I!

[Julie]

Holiday weekends are filled with temptation and opportunity.

I admit, I succumbed. Only a little bit, and I don't consider my efforts ruined. I am right back on track this morning.

I really didn't want to come here and share this but I'd rather be honest and shame-faced, then dishonestly accept kudos I don't quite deserve.

SO - fresh start this morning. All is well. So far, so good. I hope everyone else fared the weekend better than I!

We all have moments ~ I think it's great you are back here and getting back on track. Don't beat yourself UP!

Almost six weeks - but... Does not mean I am not tempted every single moment, especially when I get in my car -- I used to smoke in it and I can still smell it. Blah

[gaea]

We all have moments ~ I think it's great you are back here and getting back on track. Don't beat yourself UP!

Almost six weeks - but... Does not mean I am not tempted every single moment, especially when I get in my car -- I used to smoke in it and I can still smell it. Blah

om julie....me too lol i bring a bottle of water with me everywhere i go now tho...my car is starting to smell better for sure...i create my own temptations which suck however holding on tight....the scent eventually leaves the car..

by the way, how is the healing coming along?

[Julie]

om julie....me too lol i bring a bottle of water with me everywhere i go now tho...my car is starting to smell better for sure...i create my own temptations which suck however holding on tight....the scent eventually leaves the car..

by the way, how is the healing coming along?

I am pretty sore..still. BUT they never would have done the surgery had I been smoking - So, my breasts are healing beautifully and so are my lungs.

Feels GOOD!

You sound like you are doing great.

[gaea]

I am pretty sore..still. BUT they never would have done the surgery had I been smoking - So, my breasts are healing beautifully and so are my lungs.

Feels GOOD!

You sound like you are doing great.

i dont know if, i would call it great lol, i whined enough the other day the lady actually gave me one and i refused it...shit the whining wow unexpected...

im really just doing the best i can every day and focusing positively on the daily stuff you know...

im so glad your healing well...

[gaea]

I have been ten minutes from buying a pack for the last week...this so major freaking sucks...someone said maybe its my cycle interfering with my psyche ...UGH..

Honesty...I wanna scream and have a tantrum...I wanna cry i think i already did this morning. This will pass though it always does.

Honesty....I refuse to break...im stubborn that way...besides i don't like the flippen withdrawals they suck big time..

I know this is easier than im making it sound..and i love and adore those that have allowed me my tantrums and fits..

Honesty....I want someone to hold my hand through this..is that so bad?

[Daktari]

I have been ten minutes from buying a pack for the last week...this so major freaking sucks...someone said maybe its my cycle interfering with my psyche ...UGH..

Honesty...I wanna scream and have a tantrum...I wanna cry i think i already did this morning. This will pass though it always does.

Honesty....I refuse to break...im stubborn that way...besides i don't like the flippen withdrawals they suck big time..

I know this is easier than im making it sound..and i love and adore those that have allowed me my tantrums and fits..

Honesty....I want someone to hold my hand through this..is that so bad?

*hugs*

You keep being stubborn gaea. You're doing brilliantly. I'm pleased to hear that folks are supporting you and allowing you your tantrums. No, I don't believe it is wrong to want someone to hold your hand, I wish I could do just that for you.

Keep the faith, you can do it!

[lillith]

Firstly, congratulations to everyone who has quit whether it has been a hour or 10 years.
Gaea – I totally get what you mean about dealing with emotions. The first two months were the most shit-tastic experience of my life. Having a dry birth was less hard than this. I think that it is too important to do this to feel like you have to do it alone. I will pm you my number, and you can text or call if you want.
Ms. Meander – East some of that chocolate, girl! You deserve it! Congratulations!

My Story:
Smoking was my last great vice, and I smoked for 20 years. About 3 months ago, I developed pneumonia, and was out for about a week. During the course of the week, I slept and didn't really wake up to eat or use the restroom, much less smoke. When I was finally awake enough, I decided it was time to quit. I am the kind of person that if you take away my addiction, then it will be worse than what it needs to be. I kept a pack of cigarettes on my nightstand, and gave myself permission to smoke only if I need to. After the week of not smoking, I pulled on out of the pack, and left it on my nightstand with the same permission as above. It stayed there for two weeks, and I threw it away. Don’t get me wrong, I know I was lucky because I got to sleep through the worst part of the physical addiction, but I was in the middle of my last semester, in an unhealthy relationship, and having to fight with a professor who was trying to bully me into quitting. I never in my life wanted to say fuck it, gimme a smoke. Everyday for about a month I wished I had a cigarette. The toughest part, I think, is living with people who still smoke. The smell sits in my mouth like some explosive chemical reaction, and leaves my tongue feeling rough and abrasive against my soft palate. And so, three months later, I still want to smoke. I don’t think that feeling will ever go away completely, but I know that today is easier than yesterday and tomorrow will be easier than today.

[Daktari]

Firstly, congratulations to everyone who has quit whether it has been a hour or 10 years.
Gaea – I totally get what you mean about dealing with emotions. The first two months were the most shit-tastic experience of my life. Having a dry birth was less hard than this. I think that it is too important to do this to feel like you have to do it alone. I will pm you my number, and you can text or call if you want.
Ms. Meander – East some of that chocolate, girl! You deserve it! Congratulations!

My Story:
Smoking was my last great vice, and I smoked for 20 years. About 3 months ago, I developed pneumonia, and was out for about a week. During the course of the week, I slept and didn't really wake up to eat or use the restroom, much less smoke. When I was finally awake enough, I decided it was time to quit. I am the kind of person that if you take away my addiction, then it will be worse than what it needs to be. I kept a pack of cigarettes on my nightstand, and gave myself permission to smoke only if I need to. After the week of not smoking, I pulled on out of the pack, and left it on my nightstand with the same permission as above. It stayed there for two weeks, and I threw it away. Don’t get me wrong, I know I was lucky because I got to sleep through the worst part of the physical addiction, but I was in the middle of my last semester, in an unhealthy relationship, and having to fight with a professor who was trying to bully me into quitting. I never in my life wanted to say fuck it, gimme a smoke. Everyday for about a month I wished I had a cigarette. The toughest part, I think, is living with people who still smoke. The smell sits in my mouth like some explosive chemical reaction, and leaves my tongue feeling rough and abrasive against my soft palate. And so, three months later, I still want to smoke. I don’t think that feeling will ever go away completely, but I know that today is easier than yesterday and tomorrow will be easier than today.


Go you lillith. Sounds like you've succeeded against the odds. I'm sorry you're living with smokers, that must make it really hard. The feeling of wanting to smoke does go away eventually.

[gaea]

*hugs*

You keep being stubborn gaea. You're doing brilliantly. I'm pleased to hear that folks are supporting you and allowing you your tantrums. No, I don't believe it is wrong to want someone to hold your hand, I wish I could do just that for you.

Keep the faith, you can do it!

Trust me Im doing this, even through the tantrums and tears...

Firstly, congratulations to everyone who has quit whether it has been a hour or 10 years.
Gaea – I totally get what you mean about dealing with emotions. The first two months were the most shit-tastic experience of my life. Having a dry birth was less hard than this. I think that it is too important to do this to feel like you have to do it alone. I will pm you my number, and you can text or call if you want.
Ms. Meander – East some of that chocolate, girl! You deserve it! Congratulations!

My Story:
Smoking was my last great vice, and I smoked for 20 years. About 3 months ago, I developed pneumonia, and was out for about a week. During the course of the week, I slept and didn't really wake up to eat or use the restroom, much less smoke. When I was finally awake enough, I decided it was time to quit. I am the kind of person that if you take away my addiction, then it will be worse than what it needs to be. I kept a pack of cigarettes on my nightstand, and gave myself permission to smoke only if I need to. After the week of not smoking, I pulled on out of the pack, and left it on my nightstand with the same permission as above. It stayed there for two weeks, and I threw it away. Don’t get me wrong, I know I was lucky because I got to sleep through the worst part of the physical addiction, but I was in the middle of my last semester, in an unhealthy relationship, and having to fight with a professor who was trying to bully me into quitting. I never in my life wanted to say fuck it, gimme a smoke. Everyday for about a month I wished I had a cigarette. The toughest part, I think, is living with people who still smoke. The smell sits in my mouth like some explosive chemical reaction, and leaves my tongue feeling rough and abrasive against my soft palate. And so, three months later, I still want to smoke. I don’t think that feeling will ever go away completely, but I know that today is easier than yesterday and tomorrow will be easier than today.

Ok I'm week 7 plus a day nearing the 2 mos mark...and although i have a ton of support there are moments i feel more alone than what i have no clue just alone...and scared outa my mind about the whole thing...after 23 yrs can i make this quit stick?

[gaea]

Video's in this thread? like helpful ones?

[Glenn]

Update: Smoking outside only... Not in the house.

[gaea]

ok all the great advice about how things pass listen lol I did. and I will continue to listen that's my advice.

one bad day poured into a really good one thus far.

duffel the heels in and not giving up on me.

[OS Butch]

Good evening quitters:) That is suppose to be funny:)

I am on the end of day 2 of my quit smoking forever this time. I have been smoking for 35 years...I have tried to stop too many times to count. My quitting got to be a joke because I have tried so many times...I quit smoking every night. I have gotten really good at quitting since I have done it so much!

The best part for being successful this time is that I am not at home.I will be away for 2 weeks and surrounded by non smokers. As long as I am not near it, I don't think I will be tempted. Hopefully those here will be OK with any uncharacteristic temper tantrums that may occur.

I am adding all my support to those here that need it to to end this habit.

Have a great smoke free evening:)

OSB

[OS Butch]

Update: Smoking outside only... Not in the house.

I have done that for 35 years. I don't like the stale smell of cigarettes in my home....how weird was that. I also started dining in non smoking restaurants about 10 years ago. I hate being around smoking while I am eating.

OSB

[gaea]

Good evening quitters:) That is suppose to be funny:)

I am on the end of day 2 of my quit smoking forever this time. I have been smoking for 35 years...I have tried to stop too many times to count. My quitting got to be a joke because I have tried so many times...I quit smoking every night. I have gotten really good at quitting since I have done it so much!

The best part for being successful this time is that I am not at home.I will be away for 2 weeks and surrounded by non smokers. As long as I am not near it, I don't think I will be tempted. Hopefully those here will be OK with any uncharacteristic temper tantrums that may occur.

I am adding all my support to those here that need it to to end this habit.

Have a great smoke free evening:)

OSB


Good for you....i too am here for support even though i have had my own bad days lol there is a ton of support in this thread .

digging my :blueheels: in ..

[OS Butch]

Good morning on my day 3.

I find that changing my usual habits helps me not auto trigger a smoke. Usually my day starts with a morning cup of coffee and a smoke outside on my back screened porch. Today, since I am away from home, it is coffee with conversations with family. The craving is there, but the distraction is working pretty well.

Thanks for being here!

OSB

[gaea]

Good morning on my day 3.

I find that changing my usual habits helps me not auto trigger a smoke. Usually my day starts with a morning cup of coffee and a smoke outside on my back screened porch. Today, since I am away from home, it is coffee with conversations with family. The craving is there, but the distraction is working pretty well.

Thanks for being here!

OSB


OSB,

while your away from home this will work, after you get home you will want to maintain as much as your regular routine as possible and here is why...those of us that have many times in the past chose to stop smoking often would change our routines so drastically it would cause confusion an upset this is a fact...and we often failed (using we as a general term) ...this is fact..

This time for me i kept my routines and it working i still hang out with my friends and do the things i do only now i have added working out into my routine.

If you make changes to your routines they should be small and barely noticeable...

ps i still take my coffee in the same place i took it before i quit...just saying..

Still Digging her :blueheels: in

[OS Butch]

I do agree with making little changes...For instance, still having my coffee out on the porch but in a different chair. The point for me is to avoid the automatic triggers....The one that will be the hardest is driving with a smoke. I won't be driving much in the next 10 days, so that helps...I also avoid going into 7-11....There has only been 1 reason for me to go into a 7-11!

OSB,

while your away from home this will work, after you get home you will want to maintain as much as your regular routine as possible and here is why...those of us that have many times in the past chose to stop smoking often would change our routines so drastically it would cause confusion an upset this is a fact...and we often failed (using we as a general term) ...this is fact..

This time for me i kept my routines and it working i still hang out with my friends and do the things i do only now i have added working out into my routine.

If you make changes to your routines they should be small and barely noticeable...

ps i still take my coffee in the same place i took it before i quit...just saying..

Still Digging her :blueheels: in

[Daktari]

Go you OS Butch...you can do it. If you read back I am the example of what can happen if you don't get wise and give up. You do not wanna be where I am with the equivalent of one lung left which will never get better. :|

Internet and smokes are what were one of my hardest habits to break and post food cigs. They were killers to move past....but I did. I kept my routines the same too gaea and went to the same coffee shop with my smoking mates - even continued going outside with them when they smoked for a goodly while. Still visited my buddy round the corner who I'd smoked joints for years with but just changed over to a bong. I Still go to the same parties with all the smokers around. I didn't want to change those things, that would have meant I wasn't living my life as I like it.

Wishing you lots of luck in breaking the habits whilst you're away OS Butch.

[OS Butch]

I certainly won't change my friends....They didn't dump me because I smoked. Funny thing is that I only have one other friend that smokes, so being around my friends doesn't present temptations!

Thanks Incubus.

Go you OS Butch...you can do it. If you read back I am the example of what can happen if you don't get wise and give up. You do not wanna be where I am with the equivalent of one lung left which will never get better. :|

Internet and smokes are what were one of my hardest habits to break and post food cigs. They were killers to move past....but I did. I kept my routines the same too gaea and went to the same coffee shop with my smoking mates - even continued going outside with them when they smoked for a goodly while. Still visited my buddy round the corner who I'd smoked joints for years with but just changed over to a bong. I Still go to the same parties with all the smokers around. I didn't want to change those things, that would have meant I wasn't living my life as I like it.

Wishing you lots of luck in breaking the habits whilst you're away OS Butch.

[Nat]

I'm going on about 26 hours without a cig and I wanna break something and then eat it! :)

[OS Butch]

I'm going on about 26 hours without a cig and I wanna break something and then eat it! :)

Been there Nat...About 36 hours ago. They say the 1st week is the hardest....The first 3 days are the killer. Go ahead, break something, I won't tell a soul.

[DapperButch]

Holiday weekends are filled with temptation and opportunity.

I admit, I succumbed. Only a little bit, and I don't consider my efforts ruined. I am right back on track this morning.

I really didn't want to come here and share this but I'd rather be honest and shame-faced, then dishonestly accept kudos I don't quite deserve.

SO - fresh start this morning. All is well. So far, so good. I hope everyone else fared the weekend better than I!

Well, I think you deserve kudos for coming in here and being honest about it. But, just like you said, back on track!

I have been ten minutes from buying a pack for the last week...this so major freaking sucks...someone said maybe its my cycle interfering with my psyche ...UGH..

Honesty...I wanna scream and have a tantrum...I wanna cry i think i already did this morning. This will pass though it always does.

Honesty....I refuse to break...im stubborn that way...besides i don't like the flippen withdrawals they suck big time..

I know this is easier than im making it sound..and i love and adore those that have allowed me my tantrums and fits..

Honesty....I want someone to hold my hand through this..is that so bad?

No, not at all. It is normal.

Incubus has it correct...you are on the hump right now....you will get over to the other side. Keep fighting!

[DapperButch]

I'm going on about 26 hours without a cig and I wanna break something and then eat it! :)

Woo Hoo! Keep it up! Keep it up!

[OS Butch]

Day 4 of my success:) Craving are bad and I so do want to eat everything in site. Good thing I have a very busy day and weekend ahead.

I find keeping busy with things that require concentration helps with not thinking about smoking.

Have a great smoke free day and weekend!

[OS Butch]

Oh the cravings! At a festival and every other person is smoking.....I will not bum, I will not bum a cigarette...I will not!

[gaea]

I'm going on about 26 hours without a cig and I wanna break something and then eat it! :)

push through and keep going

Oh the cravings! At a festival and every other person is smoking.....I will not bum, I will not bum a cigarette...I will not!

well ok so dont have us all worried now please tell me you didnt...

2 days from 8 weeks in and digging my :blueheels: in...

[OS Butch]

well ok so dont have us all worried now please tell me you didnt...

2 days from 8 weeks in and digging my :blueheels: in...
I made it through the evening without bumming a cig!

Great for you. Keep them heels diggin'!

[femmedyke]

Kudos to all those committed to kicking the habit! June 1st marked three and a half years quit. I can't even believe I just typed that. I lived on cowboy killers and coffee for over ten years and did not ever think quitting would be in my future. My partner and I quit together; while she was 100% ready I was only 85%... I borrowed 15% from her and somehow, through sweat, tears a little weight gain and lots of hissy fits I did it... we did it and I'm so effin proud!

I still think about it sometimes... but I know I am romanticizing it all, so return to reality and 'breathe' through the moment.

Again, way to go all of you - you CAN do it... and you deserve to be healthy.

blessings,
fD

[gaea]

x4f3c8wC8Qs

This is the "quit" song for me it is one of the first songs i heard immediately following my decision to walk away from the longest most toxic relationship i had. For me this song is suiting

[Daktari]

You're all doing so damned well. It makes me feel all squishy knowing y'all are on course for success. :clap:

Good on yer for 'fessing up Ms.Meander and well done for getting back on track. Don't give up giving up.

[OS Butch]

The beginning of smoke free day #6. I am waiting for that magic time that is suppose to happen after 7 days...Wondering if there is really something different about day 7...One day at a time, I will make it through this day, smoke free.

Have a great smoke free day!

[gaea]

The beginning of smoke free day #6. I am waiting for that magic time that is suppose to happen after 7 days...Wondering if there is really something different about day 7...One day at a time, I will make it through this day, smoke free.

Have a great smoke free day!


The magic comes from within you, so if you wanted that magic today you can have it....today and everyday hereafter...it really is in how you choose to spend your day.

Last Night at Dyke Night,

I bumped into an old friend i hadn't seen in nearly a year, i mentioned i quit smoking, hy said so your out here because let me guess you want a cigarette, i simply replied oh gosh no, i came out here to show off my shoes as its a bit crowded in there...

there were a ton of folks smoking and then some....a great deal i knew i used to smoke with them...i didn't and still do not want to smoke..

Diggin my :blueheels: in

[OS Butch]

What a fantastic reply. :) I am fortunate that so many of my friends are non smokers, I don't have to leave a room to go chat with them outside. At my age, I don't find much fun in the bar scene...Though an occasional Dyke Night would be fun.


The magic comes from within you, so if you wanted that magic today you can have it....today and everyday hereafter...it really is in how you choose to spend your day.

Last Night at Dyke Night,

I bumped into an old friend i hadn't seen in nearly a year, i mentioned i quit smoking, hy said so your out here because let me guess you want a cigarette, i simply replied oh gosh no, i came out here to show off my shoes as its a bit crowded in there...

there were a ton of folks smoking and then some....a great deal i knew i used to smoke with them...i didn't and still do not want to smoke..

Diggin my :blueheels: in

[LadyPhoenix]

My daughter, her boyfriend, and I quit smoking "analog" (or regular) cigarettes about 6 months ago. At first I experimented with the e-cigs you can get at the 7-11 ... called N-Joy. I knew then, that if I found the right one, I'd never pick up another "tobacco cigarette"again. A couple of months later my daughters boyfriend, after a great deal of research and some personal experimentation, introduced us to the Joye eGo systems. It's been 6 months! I love the caramel flavors, although there are countless flavors more!, and I get to puff to my hearts content. The nicotine is delivered in a "PG", (propelyne glycol) base which is FDA approved for inhalation. As Strappie mentioned in hys first post, the nicotine "juice"comes in different doses, usually 36/24/18/12/0 Mg's which allow users to cut back on the nicotine dosage as they desire. They are flavored with food grade quality flavoring.
Having said all of this, no distributor is allowed to claim that e-cigarettes are an effective method of quitting smoking. E-cigarettes are no more than a different delivery system for the highly addictive drug, nicotine. They are, however, an effective way to reduce the health risks associated with partaking this particular drug.
Of the 4000 known chemicals in smoke, 50 are known to be cancer causing. No one I know would intentionally introduce acetone, or ammonia into their lungs, nor would they intentionally breathe in more carbon monoxide than they had to. But plenty of people I know, smoke cigarettes, doing everything I just mentioned.
I have become quite a fan of my e-cigs and am "vaping" as I sit and type this. My breathing has improved over the past months, as has my energy level. I know that I am still putting my heart at risk by using nicotine, however, I also know that a couple of e-cigs per day isn't going to do more harm than a half pot of coffee!
I'm a huge advocate of e-cigs and even more so of those of you who have quit cold turkey! Way to go everyone! That's quite an amazing accomplishment considering that nicotine is more addictive than heroine!

** cheers***

W

[gaea]

What a fantastic reply. :) I am fortunate that so many of my friends are non smokers, I don't have to leave a room to go chat with them outside. At my age, I don't find much fun in the bar scene...Though an occasional Dyke Night would be fun.

It was a fun time for sure that is the first time i have been dancing without taking a "smoke break" when i needed a break i would sit and have water instead.

I had more energy dancing at last nights event over the last one in February.

besides it was pride night so all the eye "candy" was suppose to be out...sadly enough i dint see any...

[lillith]

OK so it has been 14 weeks since I quit. Today, is a little difficult. I am struggling with with boredom, or better yet, lack of work, and that leads to wanting to smoke. The day is half way over, and I am going to find something to do now. Hope everyone has a good day.

[Glenn]

Folks and All; I will try the Joy eGo system advised by the previous poster.

[gaea]

OK so it has been 14 weeks since I quit. Today, is a little difficult. I am struggling with with boredom, or better yet, lack of work, and that leads to wanting to smoke. The day is half way over, and I am going to find something to do now. Hope everyone has a good day.

moving forward with what we talked about.

diggin my :blueheels: in

[OS Butch]

OK so it has been 14 weeks since I quit. Today, is a little difficult. I am struggling with with boredom, or better yet, lack of work, and that leads to wanting to smoke. The day is half way over, and I am going to find something to do now. Hope everyone has a good day.

That is great! The boredom part often was my undoing. I am grateful that this week has been too busy to be bored. I hope you find something to keep you going!

[Tommi]

:hangloose::hangloose::hangloose::hangloose: :hangloose:

Way to go all of you; doing well, still struggling, and /or even thinking about quitting. I heard from my Mom, it was the biggest struggle of her life. Cheeeers 2 u. :wine:

:moonstars:
(f) RIP Mom

[gaea]

Ok So i was talking to lillith and we decided we are gonna pull in everyone else here who has quit and we are all obviously at different stages have used different methods have shared stories and what have you.....

Story telling...not the same...

"What can I expect when I quit smoking?" this seems to be a big question...

So let put together this what to expect thing so our sisters n brothers who come across this thread will eventually see all we are compiling in our journeys to stay smoke free....

So I will start..

Method - Patch (expired patches i might add, cause im a cheap twit and had no desire to spend money on these things...(even though i would purchase cigarettes ) )

Currently 21 hours from 8 weeks so we will just call it 8 weeks...

The first 5 days mentally were a breeze, i was emotionally and mentally ready for this by a long shot so it seemed this was gonna be easy. Now the heartburn intense heartburn for about three weeks kept me stockpiled in antacids and i think this is a side affect of the patch not sure.

the first 5 weeks were amazing...for me my state of mind and knowing where i want to be. physically not so much my body is wrecked, i cant sleep and yet im tired, im energetic and sleepy all at the same time. and i physically feel starved and full at the same time.

the last 2 weeks---im drained and tired and being that makes for breaking down my guarded self..i also am having trouble breathing and spent those 2 weeks "ten minutes from buying a pack", everything seemed to get on my nerves....

THIS community saved my arse, everyone rallied around me and for that i currently have a tear in my eye, when my own family turned their back on me i had this family to say "dont smoke" "dig your heels in (thank you Doc)"

today i am not having any breathing issues...i feel good physically however im having issues concentrating...this is where im at at 8 weeks...however the point being im at 8 weeks.

diggin my :blueheels: in
btw incubus, if i ever get to meet you i will be the one wearing a cute pair of blue heels for sure...

[Daktari]

I'm going to assume you made it through the 21hrs and hit 2 months smoke-free gaea :clap::happyjump::thumbsup:

Hopefully if I ever get to meet you the heels won't be dug in so deep and you'll be your proper height! :winky:

How're all you new non-smokers feeling/doing?

[TxBelle]

Just wanted to stop by and offer my encouragement to all the future non-smokers! Non-smokers are sssoooooo sexy.

[gaea]

I'm going to assume you made it through the 21hrs and hit 2 months smoke-free gaea :clap::happyjump::thumbsup:

Hopefully if I ever get to meet you the heels won't be dug in so deep and you'll be your proper height! :winky:

How're all you new non-smokers feeling/doing?

made it to 2 mo and then some 10 hours or so lol 2 mos i did it
Im gonna turn 41 and be a non smoker...wow happy birthday to me think this feels kinda weird...

5'5 barefooted lol a little or a lot taller depending on the heel

Diggen my :blueheels: in

Please don't hesitate to ask Incubus for support or myself or lilith or a number of others here...

[Daktari]

made it to 2 mo and then some 10 hours or so lol 2 mos i did it
Im gonna turn 41 and be a non smoker...wow happy birthday to me think this feels kinda weird...

5'5 barefooted lol a little or a lot taller depending on the heel

Diggen my :blueheels: in

Please don't hesitate to ask Incubus for support or myself or lilith or a number of others here...

2 months is a fab achievement :happyjump: A big fat happy non smoking birthday to you!

Gaea is right, don't hestitate to ask for support...don't struggle in silence, come talk about it, there's loads of us who know the highs and lows of this journey.

[gaea]

2 months is a fab achievement :happyjump: A big fat happy non smoking birthday to you!

Gaea is right, don't hestitate to ask for support...don't struggle in silence, come talk about it, there's loads of us who know the highs and lows of this journey.

Doc,
you have no idea how incredibly happy i am today :) I wish you could see the smile on my face...

[Ms. Meander]

This last week would have been challenging for me even if I was not quitting smoking. It has been touch and go, and I would not consider myself successful except that progress is evident. I am not back to my regular habit nor do I give up. Just trying to get a grip so Quitting does not = Nervous Breakdown. :praying:

[Daktari]

This last week would have been challenging for me even if I was not quitting smoking. It has been touch and go, and I would not consider myself successful except that progress is evident. I am not back to my regular habit nor do I give up. Just trying to get a grip so Quitting does not = Nervous Breakdown. :praying:

Very well done for not diving head-long back into smoking. Some progress is better than none though. I hope the challenges you're facing subside and give you a break to concentrate on quitting.

I discovered that as long as I maintained the very positive self-talk I created for myself before starting the process it was easier to say no to the 'stress ciggies'. Not to mention I was scared stiff.

I am pleased to report that Non-Mrs.I has smoked what is hopefully her last real ciggie and is currently using an e-cig. She has circulatory problems in her legs which are hugely exacerbated by smoking. We recently found out that an acquaintance who has similar circulatory problems has now lost a leg upto mid-thigh. He's only in his 30s. The fear has finally hit her.


Keep the faith and don't give up giving up.

[Daktari]

Doc,
you have no idea how incredibly happy i am today :) I wish you could see the smile on my face...

Wooohoooo for excesses of happiness. I'm so pleased you're having a great day... a great smoke free day no less. I wish I could see that smile too!
:cheerleader::cheerleader::cheerleader:

[Ms. Meander]

TbjeUVF3aAw

[Daktari]

TbjeUVF3aAw

Just chew some gum and say F*ck You.....I love it! :cheesy:

[Julie]

I fell!
A couple days ago - I had a meltdown. A genuine meltdown directed at my three son's. I became hysterical (lol omg so dramatic) and stole one of Isa's (middle son's) cigs and smoked it, as if I had never quit. And then another. And then the next morning, snuck into his room and stole one out of his pack, and then another. Then yesterday same routine - except Isa left for the week and then some of Ben's friends came over who smoked and when they were not looking, I stole theirs!

How Pathetic!

I just charged my e-cig and at some point this morning will go get some mild filters. I am not sure why I cannot manage my emotions, except ---- I did just get my period, a week early and I am emotional for a variety of reasons -- But why the cigs? Why do we always reach for the cigs?

That is all - I am not ashamed, just a bit disappointed in myself. I am glad the kids left for a few days - I need to regroup and find some *me* time and get back on track. AND - I told Isa, you cannot come back home with cigarettes. I am not strong enough yet.

Julie

[gaea]

don't hestitate to ask for support...don't struggle in silence, come talk about it, there's loads of us who know the highs and lows of this journey.

I fell!
A couple days ago - I had a meltdown. A genuine meltdown directed at my three son's. I became hysterical (lol omg so dramatic) and stole one of Isa's (middle son's) cigs and smoked it, as if I had never quit. And then another. And then the next morning, snuck into his room and stole one out of his pack, and then another. Then yesterday same routine - except Isa left for the week and then some of Ben's friends came over who smoked and when they were not looking, I stole theirs!

How Pathetic!

I just charged my e-cig and at some point this morning will go get some mild filters. I am not sure why I cannot manage my emotions, except ---- I did just get my period, a week early and I am emotional for a variety of reasons -- But why the cigs? Why do we always reach for the cigs?

That is all - I am not ashamed, just a bit disappointed in myself. I am glad the kids left for a few days - I need to regroup and find some *me* time and get back on track. AND - I told Isa, you cannot come back home with cigarettes. I am not strong enough yet.

Julie

You are human love. just keep pushing through because you want this...

For me the meltdowns make me want to smoke as well...they are emotionally charged..for me those bad days i want more than anything to smoke and i do not...for me it was always about , are you ready for this....i smoked to "AVOID" emotion.....nice huh... now im 41 with the emotions of a teenager wtf is that about....

so now i dont smoke and i have these things called "emotions" creeping up on me all the time...learning to deal with them one at a time...

there was this old thought
"If i smoke i don't have to deal with the bad stuff"

Here is a new thought
"the bad stuff is gonna happen anyway, no need to smoke"

[Daktari]

I fell!
A couple days ago - I had a meltdown. A genuine meltdown directed at my three son's. I became hysterical (lol omg so dramatic) and stole one of Isa's (middle son's) cigs and smoked it, as if I had never quit. And then another. And then the next morning, snuck into his room and stole one out of his pack, and then another. Then yesterday same routine - except Isa left for the week and then some of Ben's friends came over who smoked and when they were not looking, I stole theirs!

How Pathetic!

I just charged my e-cig and at some point this morning will go get some mild filters. I am not sure why I cannot manage my emotions, except ---- I did just get my period, a week early and I am emotional for a variety of reasons -- But why the cigs? Why do we always reach for the cigs?

That is all - I am not ashamed, just a bit disappointed in myself. I am glad the kids left for a few days - I need to regroup and find some *me* time and get back on track. AND - I told Isa, you cannot come back home with cigarettes. I am not strong enough yet.

Julie


There, you hit it on the head Julie, there's no need for shame just a bit of disappointment in yourself...none of us will be ashamed or disappointed in you. We're here to support not knock folks down. You've charged your e-cig...well done!!

I think you have every right to expect some support in this from your sons if they live with you.

The line I will continue to use is...

Keep the faith and don't give up giving up :thumbsup:

[gaea]

91OQwco7a58

Keep on Keepin On....

[Daktari]

couldn't resist

-ECUtkv2qV8

[princessbelle]

I reluctantly have to say i fell of the wagon.

The e-ciggs however do work for me and i can quit on them.

They don't however last very long (the charge). I am going to buy another one or another type with hopefully a longer battery charge on Friday.

Keep up the good work all. So proud of you!!!!!