Quit Smoking... (A Discussion)

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

Seven months here.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Terry B]

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<BRIAN & JOHN>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Way to go guys!

[Becks19]

I am entertaining the idea of quitting as my New Year's resolution I really really want to!!!!.....I can do it, I know I can!!:cool2:

[Haunted]

I am entertaining the idea of quitting as my New Year's resolution I really really want to!!!!.....I can do it, I know I can!!:cool2:

YES, YOU CAN!!

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

And what Haunted Said - Yes, you can!

I was amazed wiith how easy it was to quit when it was far too late to matter, I just wish I'd made the effort years ago.

Good luck, Mookie!

Long days and pleasant nights

[Haunted]

Hi,

And what Haunted Said - Yes, you can!

I was amazed wiith how easy it was to quit when it was far too late to matter, I just wish I'd made the effort years ago.

Good luck, Mookie!

Long days and pleasant nights


I was amazed wiith how easy it was to quit when it was far too late to matter, I just wish I'd made the effort years ago.

Oh John, you say it so well, so well. Unfortunately, we pay for our plays, eh? What goes around, comes around. *sigh*

[randallFlaggfan1]

I've been an off-and-on (mostly on) smoker for about six years. I am aware of how detrimental it is to one's health, and the money I could be saving, but I must admit that I enjoy it. Well, as as yesterday evening, I had my last cigarette. Wish me luck...I need it!!

[JohnDalglish]

I've been an off-and-on (mostly on) smoker for about six years. I am aware of how detrimental it is to one's health, and the money I could be saving, but I must admit that I enjoy it. Well, as as yesterday evening, I had my last cigarette. Wish me luck...I need it!!

Hi,

The very best of good luck, Randall, make it happen.

Long days and pleasant nights

[~Ally~]

I'm actually considering starting up the habit again. Yes, I know the risks, but boy did I enjoy it...and think I would again. :devil:

[JohnDalglish]

I'm actually considering starting up the habit again. Yes, I know the risks, but boy did I enjoy it...and think I would again. :devil:

Hi,

DON'T !!!

Long days and pleasant nights

[MadamMack]

Hi,

DON'T !!!

Long days and pleasant nights

AWJDS . . .Did I do that right?

Don't Ally, leave them smuckers alone. You don't need that crap . . .it's a horror for your body and don't believe that crap that the health risks are liken to those of being hit by a bus. Yeah, you can get hit by a bus all right . . .when you try to light a cig while crossing the street.
Leave them muthers alone . . .ya hear me girl? Once you kick it, then stay KICKED!

[Brian - Metro]

Come on Alley... Do you really want to smell like a dogs ass again? Do you want to feel half poisoned to death? How about the cost? - About 6K per year now?

Sorry, the cost is about 3K. I was thinking about how much it cost for Judy and I to smoke. (2 people)

How about dying a slow and painful asphyxiation death?

As JD said:
DONT!

[FXguy]

I quit smoking this past February, after smoking since 1985. It was a lot easier than I thought it would be, as I used a drug called Chantix, prescribed from my doctor. The meathod is, take the pill, smoke as you would normally. After about a month or so, you lose the craving and want for the smokes, and ultimately, you feel nauseous after having a cigarette.

Sure, I enjoyed smoking (a lot, in fact), so I understand your wanting to do it again. I know I won't, due to the sheer cost of them.

[Spideyman]

Don't, Ally. You already have doubts as you said "think". Find something positive in life and enjoy that instead.

[Terry B]

I'm actually considering starting up the habit again. Yes, I know the risks, but boy did I enjoy it...and think I would again. :devil:

I could post a photo of the 12 inch scar I have on my back where they removed part of my lung if that will help persuade you to NOT start up again.

[~Ally~]

Hmm, guess I well and truly had my internet hand spanked that time. My apologies y'all...but sometimes it really does feel good to have a smoke, especially when stressed or having a glass of wine. I slipped up in May during a works night out before I left for America. A bouncer outside a club gave my friend a ciggie and he gave me one too, so I took it. Made me feel slightly sick/woozy when I smoked it and the next morning it was the first thing I could taste/smell.

[steve-w]

Ally, you've done the hard work by giving up in the first place, keep at it. I, on the other hand, am about to go down that particular road. I know it's not going to be easy but I WILL crack it this time, got to, I'm sick of saying it now :smile2:

[SusanNorton]

Ally (and everyone else considering quitting) - if I can do it, so can you! I quit 15 years ago, and I was heavily addicted. It's not easy, but if you're motivated you can do it. I have the willpower of Charlie Sheen, but I was able to see what smoking did to my brother-in-law - I watched him die a slow, nightmarish death from lung cancer and emphysema, and see the toll it took on his family. I tell myself that if I'm still alive at 75, I'll go buy myself a pack of Kools and start back up again.

Next time someone offers you a cig, jump away like they've handed you a coral snake.

[MadamMack]

I am entertaining the idea of quitting as my New Year's resolution I really really want to!!!!.....I can do it, I know I can!!:cool2:

Just do it baby . . .just smucking do it:

www.quitnet.com

My Quit

My Stats:
Your Quit Date is: 11/5/2003 12:00:00 PM

Time Smoke-Free: 2611 days, 14 hours, 35 minutes and 1 second
Cigarettes NOT smoked: 65290
Lifetime Saved: 16 months, 18 days, 17 hours

Money Saved: $21,222.50

[Haunted]

I've been an off-and-on (mostly on) smoker for about six years. I am aware of how detrimental it is to one's health, and the money I could be saving, but I must admit that I enjoy it. Well, as as yesterday evening, I had my last cigarette. Wish me luck...I need it!!


I must admit that I enjoy it Now, that's the hook, right? I always enjoyed it.

Wishing you the best in your efforts. Rattle my cage if you need a good boost

[Brian - Metro]

Please don't take this the wrong way, but the sad thing is... Your brain was actually tricking you into thinking you enjoy it.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Hi,

The very best of good luck, Randall, make it happen.

Long days and pleasant nights

Hi, John, thank you very much! :biggrin2:
I thought I'd let you (and everyone that may be interested) know that I have not had a smoke in almost a week. As the saying goes, "The first forty-eight hours are the hardest." After I got over that obstacle, the cravings became less and less. The last few days, I've only longed for a cigarette two-three times a day.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Please don't take this the wrong way, but the sad thing is... Your brain was actually tricking you into thinking you enjoy it.

Don't I know it!

[kingfan70]

Good luck to you Randall!
Send me a message anytime you need to talk. I'm trying to quit also(for good this time.)
*Fingers crossed!*

[nate_watkins]

Please don't take this the wrong way, but the sad thing is... Your brain was actually tricking you into thinking you enjoy it.

Silly brain, with its silly tricks... :oops:

[Becks19]

Hi, John, thank you very much! :biggrin2:
I thought I'd let you (and everyone that may be interested) know that I have not had a smoke in almost a week. As the saying goes, "The first forty-eight hours are the hardest." After I got over that obstacle, the cravings became less and less. The last few days, I've only longed for a cigarette two-three times a day.

Way to go Randallflaggfan!! It's all smooth sailing from here!! The biggest hurdle is behind you!!

[Haunted]

To all of our mates here who are trying to kick the habit---we who have been there want to wish you the best.

If you hit a low time, reach out to us, not the cigarettes...we will talk you down. Believe us, it is worth the struggle.:love:

[Brian - Metro]

Way to go Randallflaggfan!! It's all smooth sailing from here!! The biggest hurdle is behind you!!

This may be true for some, but the first three -five months were no picnic for me. Please talk with your doctor and make sure you start taking B Vitamins. I also took Gabba, Flax and 5HTP while I was quitting last year. (Still Do.)

What those f'n disgusting things were doing to my body cannot be described in any less words than Under The Dome. :laugh: Trust me, you need these vitamins for healthy brain function. Pretty soon your going to feel dumb as a freakin' rock and depressed as hell. When that happens, know that its a brain chemistry thing and that you need to get the nutrition from food and vitamins that you were getting from cigarettes. - Especially Niacin. This is the trap that makes people go back to smoking. (Mangoes are a great source of natural B Vitamins)

For me, I could go until late afternoon without food before I quit. All I needed was tobacco. Now that they are gone. I am hungry first thing in the morning.

Also, I prefer to call it an "addiction" like alcoholism, meth, or coke. Calling it a "habbit" seems too fluffy for me. (IMHO)

PLEASE P.M. ME IF ANY OF YOU ARE FALTERING!

[randallFlaggfan1]

To Angie, Haunted, Brian, and Mookie - I want to thank you all, big-big. Simply knowing that I have your support, encouragement, and friendship really means a lot to me! :biggrin2:

[meganjo]

When people smoke, more than half of what they breathe is fresh air - pulled through the cigarette right down into the lungs. So if you feel any cravings you can instantly overcome them by taking three deeper breaths. Imagine breathing from that space just below your belly button. Whenever you do this you put more oxygen into your bloodstream. This means you can use deep breaths to change the way you feel instantly and give you power over the way you feel and help you let go of those old cravings and thus making it easier to stop smoking.

[Brian - Metro]

Meganjo is right. I went outside for fresh air every time I woudl have had a cig. Of course it looks a bit strange just walking around your house doing nothing. But it got me through.

[randallFlaggfan1]

I have also realized that whenever I'm craving a smoke, a breath of fresh air seems to sooth my cravings. So instead of nicotine (which-as everyone knows-would only shorten my life,) I'm inhaling a refreshingly cool breath of air.

[meganjo]

hi randal.. its very true that deep and slow breathing is really helpful to stop the craving. its like one crave coping technique is to practice slow deep breathing while clearing your mind of all needless chatter by focusing on your favorite person, place or thing.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Well, it's been about thirty days, and so I thought I'd let anyone interested know I haven't given in to the cravings. In fact, my cravings are almost non-existent now. I'm very proud of myself, and am relieved that I quit smoking.

[JayneH]

Well, it's been about thirty days, and so I thought I'd let anyone interested know I haven't given in to the cravings. In fact, my cravings are almost non-existent now. I'm very proud of myself, and am relieved that I quit smoking.

congratulations !!! from someone who is one month short of 19 years "clean" :smile2:

[~Ally~]

I was at work the other night and discovered a patient who has been in hospital for nearly three weeks smokes thirty cigarettes a day. She never told anyone this and has managed without smokes this whole time without any complaint, or apparent negative side effects. Now for the stupid part, another nurse told the patient we would prescribe her nicorette patches for her cravings. The woman hadn't been having any cravings!

Following that suggestion she was constantly asking where her patches were and I explained to her how her actual physical addiction was now non existent and what she was feeling was purely psychological as someone had suggested nicotine replacement to her. Yet nope, the lady is now convinced she needs the nicorettes, and all because someone placed the idea in her head. The mind is a powerful tool...just a shame some of us--nurse in question--don't use it properly before we open our big mouths. Sheesh.

Rant over.

[Becks19]

congratulations !!! from someone who is one month short of 19 years "clean" :smile2:



It's been 23 days for me ( yeah I slipped those first few days) I have been munching nicorette gum. ( which is starting to taste like licking an ashtray) I am munching on carrot sticks and pretzels....Something about the crunch seems to help. I've also cut down on my caffeine. I replaced our coffee with half caffeinated and our pop with Cream Soda and Root Beer. ( too used to smoking with Coffee) I used to drink tons of coffee and smoke and not eat all day. ( til dinner) Now I am snacking 24/7.......thank heaven it's carrots.....I let you all know if I turn orange LOL....

[Connie Reader]

Well then I guess you'll end up dead.:sad:

Well, we all end up dead. The only thing we can say for sure in this life.

I quit smoking the day I found out I was pregnant, just over three years ago (Jan 14th, 2008). I told my husband that I would do exactly that but considering I had tried to quit numerous times without success, he was a bit skeptical that I would keep my promise. I guess he just didn't understand that it was one thing for me to smoke but another to make my unborn child do it. I had no problems quitting, thank Gan because I sure did still like it and I had dreams about it. But I never had the waking desire to.

After I had my son, I think he was about three months old, I bummed a smoke from my neighbor, a marlboro red (gag, I was a Camel chick) and after I smoked it, I threw up a bunch. Kicked my desire for awhile. Then I went out with my friends to a bar and never had the urge come on so strong as when I had a beer in hand. I still have not bought a pack since I quit, but I will have one or two if I go out for a drink. I'm ok with that.

[Haunted]

It's been 23 days for me ( yeah I slipped those first few days) I have been munching nicorette gum. ( which is starting to taste like licking an ashtray) I am munching on carrot sticks and pretzels....Something about the crunch seems to help. I've also cut down on my caffeine. I replaced our coffee with half caffeinated and our pop with Cream Soda and Root Beer. ( too used to smoking with Coffee) I used to drink tons of coffee and smoke and not eat all day. ( til dinner) Now I am snacking 24/7.......thank heaven it's carrots.....I let you all know if I turn orange LOL....

Orange or not--we will still love you!! Keep it up--sounds like you are on the right track. I guess you have noticed that a lot of the habit is oral. That need to put something in your mouth. CARROTS ROCK!!

[Haunted]

Well, it's been about thirty days, and so I thought I'd let anyone interested know I haven't given in to the cravings. In fact, my cravings are almost non-existent now. I'm very proud of myself, and am relieved that I quit smoking.

Thirty days is a forever time in the land of smoking!!! :biggrin2::wow: CONGRATULATIONS RFF!!!

[Becks19]

Orange or not--we will still love you!! Keep it up--sounds like you are on the right track. I guess you have noticed that a lot of the habit is oral. That need to put something in your mouth. CARROTS ROCK!!

Thanks Haunted! It's getting easier every day! I seem to have forgotten to mention something else that helps.. Yoga...Lots and lots of yoga, meditation and breathing.( Yoga Dvd's by Rodney Yee at home and I signed up for a class)

[randallFlaggfan1]

congratulations !!! from someone who is one month short of 19 years "clean" :smile2:


Thank you, JayneH. :biggrin2: And congratulations to you, as well!

[randallFlaggfan1]

Thirty days is a forever time in the land of smoking!!! :biggrin2::wow: CONGRATULATIONS RFF!!!


Yes, in the beginning it DID seem like forever...but as the days, then weeks went by, quitting became easier and easier.

Thankee, Haunted!

[krs72]

I'll tell you what, I smoked for twenty years and it was the hardest habit for me to kick. I tried over and over again throughout the years and finally I did it two years ago. My daughter approached me one day as I was puffing away out back and asked me if I would stop . I ended up stopping cold turkey and it was hell.

[CorbinKale]

Well, it's been about thirty days, and so I thought I'd let anyone interested know I haven't given in to the cravings. In fact, my cravings are almost non-existent now. I'm very proud of myself, and am relieved that I quit smoking.

I was warned that the cravings hit in multiples of three. I was skeptical, but it did appear to happen that way. The third day of quitting was very hard. The end of the third week, the cravings increased to the point I was scaring my dog. The end of the third month, the same thing, same as the end of the third year. It's been almost six years now, and I am dreading 2035. :)

I don't regret quitting, at all. Sometimes, when I buy myself a nice toy, I justify it as a reward for all the money I didn't burn on cigarettes.

[randallFlaggfan1]

I'll tell you what, I smoked for twenty years and it was the hardest habit for me to kick. I tried over and over again throughout the years and finally I did it two years ago. My daughter approached me one day as I was puffing away out back and asked me if I would stop . I ended up stopping cold turkey and it was hell.


After many unsuccessful months of trying to cut back (from half-a-pack to about six per day,) I quit cold turkey, as well.

[JayneH]

It's been 23 days for me ( yeah I slipped those first few days) I have been munching nicorette gum. ( which is starting to taste like licking an ashtray) I am munching on carrot sticks and pretzels....Something about the crunch seems to help. I've also cut down on my caffeine. I replaced our coffee with half caffeinated and our pop with Cream Soda and Root Beer. ( too used to smoking with Coffee) I used to drink tons of coffee and smoke and not eat all day. ( til dinner) Now I am snacking 24/7.......thank heaven it's carrots.....I let you all know if I turn orange LOL....

you are doing better than me ... I snacked on peanuts ... do you know how fattening those suckers are? By the time I realised how many I was eating each day I had gained close to 4 kgs and gone up a dress size !!!! I stayed right away from alcohol for 4 months and stopped going to my weekly poker night at the neighbours as they all smoked. Luckily I worked with all non smokers as back when I smoked it was still legal to smoke in the office.

[Becks19]

you are doing better than me ... I snacked on peanuts ... do you know how fattening those suckers are? By the time I realised how many I was eating each day I had gained close to 4 kgs and gone up a dress size !!!! I stayed right away from alcohol for 4 months and stopped going to my weekly poker night at the neighbours as they all smoked. Luckily I worked with all non smokers as back when I smoked it was still legal to smoke in the office.

Oh, the carrots are forced......what I really want is Chocolate and well, just about everything not nailed down!! LOL

[flwrchld]

I'm not sure that I'm exactly ready to quit yet. Some days I do think to myself that I just want to stop it all right now, then the devil on the other shoulder says, "nah, grab one up and lets go outside for a quick smoke." :devil:

My question for all you successful quitters (hahaha) is what did you do at your smoke times?

I really am not a heavy smoker and have only been smoking for 11 years (started when I was 29, am now 40). I usually make a pack last about 3 days but it's those certain times when I feel I MUST have one, for instance: first thing in the morning, ALWAYS after a meal, and when I'm in the car and right before I go to bed.

I see on here about eating pretzels, carrot sticks and such but does that really help? I can't imagine grabbing a cup of coffee and a carrot stick :eyebrow:

[Brian - Metro]

Nothing. In fact you start to realize what an effort it took to smoke all those butts. Now, even when I drink beer, its no longer a problem.

Really,everything changes once you quit. You start to see smoking for what it is and not some glorious, mythic experience that you are so attached to.

Whether its after food, a personal victory, in traffic or whatever, the cravings just "go away" as if they were reprogrammed. (I get maybe one instantaneous and fleeting craving per month now.)

[randallFlaggfan1]

I'm not sure that I'm exactly ready to quit yet. Some days I do think to myself that I just want to stop it all right now, then the devil on the other shoulder says, "nah, grab one up and lets go outside for a quick smoke." :devil:

My question for all you successful quitters (hahaha) is what did you do at your smoke times?

I really am not a heavy smoker and have only been smoking for 11 years (started when I was 29, am now 40). I usually make a pack last about 3 days but it's those certain times when I feel I MUST have one, for instance: first thing in the morning, ALWAYS after a meal, and when I'm in the car and right before I go to bed.

I see on here about eating pretzels, carrot sticks and such but does that really help? I can't imagine grabbing a cup of coffee and a carrot stick :eyebrow:


Hi, Flwr :smile2:

For me, lifesavers and miniture suckers helped a lot with the cravings. And, as I mentioned on an earlier post, stepping outside for a breath of refreshing air.

[flwrchld]

What do you ... oh, you just answered that, the suckers. It's such a brain control thing isn't it? So easy to just pick them up one day and say, "hey, you know, I'm gonna try one of these and I'll not get addicted. I'll just have one here and there." Then years later you're on a message board trying to figure out what to do during those craving times. I had thought before about gnawing on writing pens but figured I'd break my teeth out. They need to make a good human type of rawhide bone for people going through this!

My give up date is going to have to be put off but I'm going to commit to one - Feb 7 (day after Superbowl). After that there are no sporting events I care about til football season starts back. If the lockout is going on it won't matter cause I've got college ball to watch. I have a feeling I'll need quite a few of them during the Superbowl so now would not be a good time to try to quit - no sense in trying to quit when I know a stressful time is sitting in front of me right?

[CorbinKale]

I'm not sure that I'm exactly ready to quit yet. Some days I do think to myself that I just want to stop it all right now, then the devil on the other shoulder says, "nah, grab one up and lets go outside for a quick smoke." :devil:

My question for all you successful quitters (hahaha) is what did you do at your smoke times?

I really am not a heavy smoker and have only been smoking for 11 years (started when I was 29, am now 40). I usually make a pack last about 3 days but it's those certain times when I feel I MUST have one, for instance: first thing in the morning, ALWAYS after a meal, and when I'm in the car and right before I go to bed.

I see on here about eating pretzels, carrot sticks and such but does that really help? I can't imagine grabbing a cup of coffee and a carrot stick :eyebrow:

I was ok after the third month, but before that , I would throw pillows and roar during smoke time. :)

[flwrchld]

I was ok after the third month, but before that , I would throw pillows and roar during smoke time. :)

OK, see that sounds more in line with about how I feel when I see I only have about 4 left in a pack.:eek2:

[Goodlovin]

I made sure when I quit smoking sober that I did it on a day I would be feeling under the weather (it was New years day and I was hungover) and wouldnt want to smoke. After the first day I just sucked it up and quit cold turkey.

Now if I drink I can still want to bum a smoke on occasion and occasionally do but it always tastes terrible and I get nothing out of it

My suggestion is avoid drinking if you can during the first two weeks of quitting. Drinking as we all know an severely factor into our decision making ability

[flwrchld]

I've got the drinking thing over with. The only time I ever pick up a beer is when I'm in the casino and now days that's pretty rare (maybe once every two or three months) and we mostly go for the all-you-can-eat crab legs anyway. mmmmm

[Kim L.]

My question for all you successful quitters (hahaha) is what did you do at your smoke times?

I really am not a heavy smoker and have only been smoking for 11 years (started when I was 29, am now 40). I usually make a pack last about 3 days but it's those certain times when I feel I MUST have one, for instance: first thing in the morning, ALWAYS after a meal, and when I'm in the car and right before I go to bed.

I see on here about eating pretzels, carrot sticks and such but does that really help? I can't imagine grabbing a cup of coffee and a carrot stick :eyebrow:

I changed my habits: since I often smoked after a meal, I made a point of getting up from the table immediately, rather than reaching for my pack. When I was on the phone, I twirled paper clips or pencils, rather than pick up a cigarette. I did eat more, but eventually started exercising more too, which was easier since getting out of breath was no longer a problem.
After awhile, I was in the habit of NOT smoking, and didn't need to do anything differently. Do have to say that I smoked from 14 to 24, and still occasionally crave a smoke.

[larasgirl]

Great video. QUITTING CAN BE DONE. My husband quit cold turkey 6 years ago and hasn't gone back since. Best of luck to anyone trying to quit. You really can do it!

In the last 5 years I have watched 3 people, including my mother in law, die of cancer caused by smoking. My dad had a heart attack last year. I grew up a smoker because both my parents thought it was ok for us kids to breathe their second hand smoke and it was horrible. Now I worry that we may get cancer from it. Sorry to be so morbid, but it's reality.

[JayneH]

the best way is to avoid your triggers for the first couple of months - like I said - I had no alcohol and cancelled my poker parties. Before we gave up we stopped all smoking in the house so some of those triggers had already gone. I was lucky that I never wanted a ciggie before 10am, could never have one first thing in the morning!

[Brian - Metro]

1 YEAR TOBACCO FREE!!!

Wow, that's amazing to write. How fast did that year go? I feel so much better, I cant even put it in words. Those first several months were truly hell. But so worth it. I just hope you smokers think about it. I did it. You can too. :wink2:

[Spideyman]

Congratulations Brian!!!!! Many more years of being tobacco free.

[JohnDalglish]

Congratulations Brian!!!!! Many more years of being tobacco free.

Hi,

AWSS, great Brian.

Ten months here now, and I REALLY wish I'd done it sooner!

Long days and pleasant nights

[Terry B]

Brian - Woohoo! This is fabulous.

[Haunted]

WOW!!

Now that is a milestone you can be proud of !! BIG HUG!

[randallFlaggfan1]

That's fantastic news, Brian (thank you for sharing.) Congratulations!

I've been smoke-free for a little more than two months now..

[CorbinKale]

That's fantastic news, Brian (thank you for sharing.) Congratulations!

I've been smoke-free for a little more than two months now..

Once you get over the third month craving assault, you'll have it beat! Stay strong and breathe free!

[randallFlaggfan1]

Hi,

AWSS, great Brian.

Ten months here now, and I REALLY wish I'd done it sooner!



Long days and pleasant nights



Congratulations to you, as well, John! :biggrin2: We wish you'd done it sooner, too!

The best of luck to everyone in need of "kicking the habit.."

[kingricefan]

Congrats Brian!! Way to go! It'll be 3 1/2 years for me now. I am so happy that I quit (and so is my bank account- I just can't eblieve how much a pack of smokes is now!!!!). I still get the 'urge' whenever I smell someone's smoke, but at least I don't salivate anymore!:eek2: And I used to have dreams that I was smoking, how crazy is that.....

[tower-obsession]

Gettin' ready to lay 'em down here. Gum is cheaper and tastes better. Now to make myself believe I don't want cigarettes.

[Kim L.]

Gettin' ready to lay 'em down here. Gum is cheaper and tastes better. Now to make myself believe I don't want cigarettes.

I told myself a little stick of tobacco shouldn't have power over me--it's been 28 years since I quit. Best of luck!

[Srbo]

Congrats big-big, Brian and John.

Brian, man, I remember like it was yesterday when you said you quit.

WHOO-HOOOO, that`s a big one.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Today, the 28th., marks 3 months exactly! It's a little hard to believe how long it's been...and how relatively easy the process continues to be! :biggrin2:

[JohnDalglish]

Today, the 28th., marks 3 months exactly! It's a little hard to believe how long it's been...and how relatively easy the process continues to be! :biggrin2:

Hi,

Congrats big-big, Randall, that's great!

Long days and pleasant nights

[MadamMack]

Today, the 28th., marks 3 months exactly! It's a little hard to believe how long it's been...and how relatively easy the process continues to be! :biggrin2:

Just wait until you reach Three Years! Keep at it darlin'!

[arista]

Congratulations on your accomplishment!!! Way to go

[Spideyman]

Congrats and keep up the good work. Life will be so much better!

[CCAL]

I've tried before last time with Chantix. Rough stuff-not good for me. So I'm trying yet again.Wellbutrin brand. The patches never worked at all. So far I'm getting by.but its only been a week....:eyebrow:. Not giving up- got to quit,got to quit!!

[JohnDalglish]

I've tried before last time with Chantix. Rough stuff-not good for me. So I'm trying yet again.Wellbutrin brand. The patches never worked at all. So far I'm getting by.but its only been a week....:eyebrow:. Not giving up- got to quit,got to quit!!

Hi,

Good luck, Cindy, my thoughts are with you.

I really wish I'd done it years ago.

Long days and pleasant nights

[motocop]

I've tried before last time with Chantix. Rough stuff-not good for me. So I'm trying yet again.Wellbutrin brand. The patches never worked at all. So far I'm getting by.but its only been a week....:eyebrow:. Not giving up- got to quit,got to quit!!

Did the Chantix give you extremely vivid dreams? I couldnt stand them anymore when I used that drug.

[motocop]

Today, the 28th., marks 3 months exactly! It's a little hard to believe how long it's been...and how relatively easy the process continues to be! :biggrin2:

Good job. It really does get easier doesnt it? I quit Jan. 1st 2010 and havent looked back since. It actually grosses me out now when Im around it.

[Srbo]

Good work, RF, Congrats.:)

I haven`t even started yet...:down:

[randallFlaggfan1]

Thankee big-big, everyone. Your consistant support has truly made the quitting process much easier. :biggrin2:


It actually grosses me out now when Im around it.

I'm the same way, Motocop. I cannot stand the smell of cigarette smoke. Whenever I'm near it, I immediately try to get away as fast as I can. It's kind of odd how I rarely noticed it before I quit, and now it's the complete opposite.

CCAL- never give up. You can do it, we all believe in you!

[CCAL]

Thanks RF! I really r-e-a-l-l-y appreciate yourb support! when I qiut before it was for a month (what bliss!!) then hubby had heart attack/5 qu. by pass-I got weak & stressed out . I failed miserably. this time I will be strong!

[randallFlaggfan1]

CCAL- you're very welcome. :biggrin2:

And it's perfectly understandable that you "took up the habit again," after your husband had his stroke, and subsequent by-pass..I wouldn't be too hard on yourself, in that regard.

[Brian - Metro]

Just a heads up... I think I've gained about 25 pounds since I quit last year. (now 14 months clean) This has forced me to get proactive. I'm currently on a 30 day cleanse and I recently bought some basic Kettle Bell work out gear. My wife has been doing Kettle Bells for the past couple months and is showing great progress. (She's lost 15 pounds and is toning up well.)

I'll report back when I need to. The detox regiment is not easy. I may need to vent. I figure if can make it through the first month without cigarettes, I can do anything, The detox should be no big deal compared.

[omm poppa mow mow]

Anyone else experience a better (?) sense of smell? I put the question mark there because in my case, I think I could have gone w/o, believe me you.

[Spideyman]

Best of luck and tons of will power, Brian. The SKMB is a great place to vent.:biggrin2: Please keep us updated.

[Brian - Metro]

Anyone else experience a better (?) sense of smell? I put the question mark there because in my case, I think I could have gone w/o, believe me you.

Both smell and taste. Probably one of the main reasons I have gained weight. Food tastes much better. Hmmm... Yet Chefs are huge smokers.

[Haunted]

Thanks RF! I really r-e-a-l-l-y appreciate yourb support! when I qiut before it was for a month (what bliss!!) then hubby had heart attack/5 qu. by pass-I got weak & stressed out . I failed miserably. this time I will be strong!


Who could blame you reaching for solace when your husband was in trouble? No one. At least you know you can do it and will try again. We former nicotine junkies are here to support you when your time comes.

[Haunted]

Good work, RF, Congrats.:)

I haven`t even started yet...:down:

When you are ready we are here to support you.:love: The key is that you have to be ready otherwise it is a no go.

[Terry B]

You can do it Brian. A few extra pounds is worth a life time of easy breathing.

[omm poppa mow mow]

Both smell and taste. Probably one of the main reasons I have gained weight. Food tastes much better. Hmmm... Yet Chefs are huge smokers.

With me, it's the bad smells (but all know that, already, so why beat the point)...I had no idea my...poop, smelt so bad. I wondered if something got knocked haywire and it was exhibiting by bad smells....:laugh:

[Moderator]

It's possible your body is still eliminating toxins which is contributing to that--trying to give you the benefit of the doubt here. :oo:

[JohnDalglish]

With me, it's the bad smells (but all know that, already, so why beat the point)...I had no idea my...poop, smelt so bad. I wondered if something got knocked haywire and it was exhibiting by bad smells....:laugh:

Hi,

I'd see the doctor about that immediately.

Long days and pleasant nights

[nate_watkins]

Anyone else experience a better (?) sense of smell? I put the question mark there because in my case, I think I could have gone w/o, believe me you.

I've noticed no increased sense of smell. But what I've noticed even more is the loss of patience and maybe even the loss of sanity. :oo:

[Haunted]

I've noticed no increased sense of smell. But what I've noticed even more is the loss of patience and maybe even the loss of sanity. :oo:

For awhile there it does seem that every sense is exaggerated.

I personally felt cheated after hearing all this hype about food tasting better and I noticed no difference.:down:

[nate_watkins]

I agree with John, quitting was certainly easier than I expected. I'm 12 days shy of two months nicotine free. I don't know why I waited so long to give it up. I might even have a few bucks in my wallet if I had... :biggrin2:

[omm poppa mow mow]

I also have this strange urge to pick up crumpled cigarette butts and nurse them back to health. As if they are butterflies w/their wings clipped. Definitely schedule the doc app't?

[Brian - Metro]

This thread has been quiet for too long. I hope everyone is doing well.

I just wanted to quickly post an update on my cleanse. A few posts back you can read that I gained a bunch of weight over the year after quitting. I'm guessing about 25-30 lbs. One month ago, I started an expensive 30 day cleanse system that limited me to 1400 calories a day with tons of water, meal shakes, and liquid vitamins. The results are excellent. I definitely took off all of the weight I had gained from quitting smoking. (and then some.) It's a bit scary how far I let myself go.

Almost more importantly, I have a much better understanding of what food is. I have seen that I (like most) are eating way too much food. And I mean waaaaay too much food. Basically, I am reprogramming my metabolism to not crave sugar and carbs. I feel great. B vitamins are so powerful.

I would say this... At the beginning, the cravings for carbs and sugars were worse that anything I ever felt from nicotine. Nicotine cravings are *easy* compared. Its no wonder Americans are so unhealthy. And you should have heard my excuses for cheating. I won't embarrass myself.

[Spideyman]

That is wonderful news about the weight loss, Brian. May you continue on the path of healthy eating. Food is an addiction too, you are have challenged and won two battles. Congrats!!

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

Thankee for the update, Brian, that's great news.

I've never had the weight problem since other factors have made me lose about thirty pounds anyway, so the more I eat the better, although I'm NEVER hungry.

On the first of June I celebrated my first year smoke-free, I wish I'd done it many years ago, emphysema HURTS!

Emphysema

Long days and pleasant nights

[randallFlaggfan1]

Congratulations, Brian!! That is wonderful news!

To my knowledge, I haven't gained much weight since I quit on the 28th. of December. My 6-month mark is coming up soon!

JohnD- Congratulations to you, as well, my friend!!
It just saddens me to hear of the emphysema..

[randallFlaggfan1]

Wow, it's been awhile since I (or anyone) has posted in this thread..


Anyway, I just wanted to say that on the 28 of this month, I will officially be smoke-free for 1 year! I'm so very proud.:grinning:



("All things serve the Beam")

[Moderator]

As you should be--congratulations!! :smile2:

[Spideyman]

Congrats, Dustin. May there be many more! Love and green lights.

[ConstantReader1973]

Congrats, Dustin! I did it a little over two years ago. It is a wonderful feeling to know you've beaten this horrible demon!

[randallFlaggfan1]

Why, thank you very much, Ms. Mod, Spidey, and ConstantReader!! Everyone's kind words really means a lot to me.

And big-big congratulations to you, as well, Angie! You're exactly right: being smoke-free is like beating a horrible demon.


("All things serve the Beam")

[Brian - Metro]

Wow, it's been awhile since I (or anyone) has posted in this thread..


Anyway, I just wanted to say that on the 28 of this month, I will officially be smoke-free for 1 year! I'm so very proud.:grinning:



("All things serve the Beam")

Way to go!

[kingricefan]

Wow, it's been awhile since I (or anyone) has posted in this thread..


Anyway, I just wanted to say that on the 28 of this month, I will officially be smoke-free for 1 year! I'm so very proud.:grinning:



("All things serve the Beam")

Congratulations to you! You've made it over the 'hump' now, keep on going. I've been smoke 'free' for 4 years now and there are still times when I really, really want to light up one. (Like while reading 11/22/63) I guess once an addict, always an addict. Just have to maintain control over it and you will suceed.

[Xavi7734]

Love that this thread has been brought back from the dead.

I have stopped a pack a day habit using electronic cigarettes today is day 53 nicotine free and with the e-cig it was actually easy. I never thought I would say quitting smoking would be easy but those damn things changed, and saved my life.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Love that this thread has been brought back from the dead.

Me, too. Now let's keep it alive, what do you say?

Congratulations on being 53 days nicotine-free! Keep up the good work.:)



Congratulations to you! You've made it over the 'hump' now, keep on going. I've been smoke 'free' for 4 years now and there are still times when I really, really want to light up one. (Like while reading 11/22/63) I guess once an addict, always an addict. Just have to maintain control over it and you will suceed.

Thank you, your words of encouragement are appreciated. Big congratulations to you, as well!
And I agree: once an addict, always an addict. We are all recovering addicts, after all. There were a few times during 11/22/63 where I wanted to join Sadie in a smoke, as well.



("All things serve the Beam")

[Brian - Metro]

If any of you guys need a further incentive... Just know that we lost our most prized contributor to this forum as a result of smoking. He'd be the first one to tell you to quit.

http://www.stephenking.com/forums/showthread.php/23986-John-Dalglish?p=493302#post493302

My mistake... The information above is inaccurate. Although he had terrible emphysema, I've learned that JD did not die of emphysema or tobacco related illness. Sorry to misinform.

Still... just quit smoking. The crap is literally poison. (I'm on about 19 month clean now.)

[tribalbetty2002]

hi everyone, newby here! after reading king for over 2 decades i have finally registered!!!!

i havent smoked for 14 months, i was 6 months pregnant when i got plueracy, i couldn't smoke and i just never bought another packet. it hasn't bothered me at all, which tells me i never needed to smoke in the first place. i think i was very lucky, and i feel so much better for quitting.

good luck quitters!!!!

[ConstantReader1973]

hi everyone, newby here! after reading king for over 2 decades i have finally registered!!!!

i havent smoked for 14 months, i was 6 months pregnant when i got plueracy, i couldn't smoke and i just never bought another packet. it hasn't bothered me at all, which tells me i never needed to smoke in the first place. i think i was very lucky, and i feel so much better for quitting.

good luck quitters!!!!

Welcome to the SKMB. Hope you enjoy your time here.

[Frederick J. Parker]

The end of January will mark the two year anniversary of when I quit smoking. Quitting was more the result of a "happy accident" than anything else.

One night I had a gall bladder attack. I had had them before at one time or another over the previous twenty years, but never realized that this was the problem...since it usually happened after a particularly spicy or greasy meal, I always thought it was indigestion. However, this attack was excruciating, as if someone was running a sharp knife up and down my spine, and I wound up at Emergency at the local hospital.

I was immediately admitted and put under observation until they were able to assign me a room, about six hours later. I was given morphine for the pain, which was still very much in evidence. Even though I had bought a new package of cigarettes about two hours before going to the hospital, having a smoke was pretty much the last thing on my mind. When I was given a room, I was immediately seen by a doctor, who told me that I was going to be going on clear fluids, in preparation for surgery to remove my gall bladder, said operation to be performed the following day.

It was getting to the point where I felt I wanted to have a cigarette, but doing so would have been more trouble than it was worth, since I would have had to go down nine floors to the front door of the hospital and have it outside, after having dressed up for the winter conditions outside. I was still in a small degree of pain (lessened because of the morphine), and I wasn't feeling a deep craving for a smoke (I wasn't having a nicky-fit), it was more like I was missing the operation of smoking (lighting the cigarette, and the whole holding it and puffing it), more or less the mechanics of it. The desire to go through all of this "just" for a smoke quickly passed, and besides, I was feeling sleepy, anyway.

As it turned out, my operation was scrubbed the following day because of an emergency that occurred, and it was held over for the next morning, but at least I was allowed to eat Jell-O, which at least had some flavor to it, but I still wasn't craving a cigarette. Naturally, I was still on morphine for the pain. The next morning, I was prepped for surgery, and I went down to the OR. I awoke about seven hours later in Recovery, and learned from my missus that they had found two gall stones, each about the size of a golf ball, and that they were fused together. There was no way I could have gone for a cigarette at that point in time, even if I had been craving one, since I was stapled shut and moving would have been extremely painful, so soon after surgery.

After a couple of days in my room, I still wasn't craving a cigarette, even though I still had the pack I had bought the night I was admitted there with me. Again, I felt that it would have been too much trouble, expecially since it was extremely cold outside.

In my experience, getting past the first four or five days without a cigarette was the acid-test, and even though I hadn't tried in the past to quit smoking, there had been times when I didn't have immediate access to cigarettes and had to ration them out, which was hard because of the cravings. However, I was not feeling any of this, and when I was released from the hospital five days after being admitted, I had no desire to light up even though I could have since I wanted to.

I can only assume that the morphine killed the cravings and the feeling of them left my system. Oh sure, there were times after I got back to "normal" that I wanted a cigarette, but I just imagined the desire to be like a big wave coming at me at the beach, and if I stood where I was, it would just wash over me and be gone. That seemed to do the trick.

That last pack I bought, the night I was admitted to the hospital, is still on top of my fridge, still missing only one of its twenty-five cigarettes. It was always there in case of "emergency", but I never felt the need to even open it since the night it was bought. They're probably pretty dried out now, but I've never felt the need to even try one out.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Hi, welcome to the MB, Tribalbetty and Frederick!!

Congratulations to both of you!!


("All things serve the Beam")

[Lily Sawyer]

If any of you guys need a further incentive... Just know that we lost our most prized contributor to this forum as a result of smoking. He'd be the first one to tell you to quit.

http://www.stephenking.com/forums/showthread.php/23986-John-Dalglish?p=493302#post493302

Yes, he'd be the first to tell someone to either never take up smoking or quit altogether.....

...but emphysema is NOT what ended John's life.

It was Raynaud's Disease and a non-specific degenerative neurological disease that robbed him of his motor coordination and ultimately his ability to breathe. No doubt emphysema didn't help his condition, but emphysema wasn't what ultimately did him in.

[ConstantReader1973]

Yes, he'd be the first to tell someone to either never take up smoking or quit altogether.....

...but emphysema is NOT what ended John's life.

It was Raynaud's Disease and a non-specific degenerative neurological disease that robbed him of his motor coordination and ultimately his ability to breathe. No doubt emphysema didn't help his condition, but emphysema wasn't what ultimately did him in.

That's what I thought it was. I couldn't remember the name of it, but I did read John's story and I knew it wasn't the emphysema that got him in the end.
That said, I'm sure he would've echoed the plea to quit.

[randallFlaggfan1]

That said, I'm sure he would've echoed the plea to quit.


Oh, he definitely would have!

Thank you clearing that up, Lily.:)



("All things serve the Beam")

[Brian - Metro]

I have updated my post regarding JD's death.

[Dylan Roberts]

Am on the patch...having lots of fun with battling cravings, weird dreams, insomnia, etc...

[kingricefan]

I've noticed no increased sense of smell. But what I've noticed even more is the loss of patience and maybe even the loss of sanity. :oo:

I've quit smoking 4 years ago and strangely I've noticed in the last few months that I can really smell cigarette smoke on other people like never before. Strange..........

[Frederick J. Parker]

Interesting.

I don't think I smell it on people, so much, but I do have a heightened sense of smell regarding it. If I walk past a doorway where people are smoking, I can really smell it then. Nonetheless, this doesn't really make me crave it or anything...I look on it as something I used to do but don't do anymore, like something I've outgrown.

I can sympathize with Dylan, though. The cravings are really hard to deal with, and your body does rebel against the absence of nicotine. Hang in there, Dylan!

Overall, though, I don't think my sense of smell has increased, nor my sense of taste, contrary to what a lot of people claim.

[ConstantReader1973]

I found the perfect cure for wanting a cigarette-get pregnant. I absolutely cannot stand the smell of it anymore. Blech! :barf:

[nate_watkins]

I found the perfect cure for wanting a cigarette-get pregnant. I absolutely cannot stand the smell of it anymore. Blech! :barf:

...But I can't.

[tower-obsession]

Okay, I'm ready. Quitting now. Not next week, and not tomorrow. Now.

[ConstantReader1973]

...But I can't.

Hmmm, yeah, I could see where that might not work for some people. :biggrin2:

[ConstantReader1973]

Okay, I'm ready. Quitting now. Not next week, and not tomorrow. Now.

You can do it! I did, two years ago. It's not easy, I won't lie. But, I'm so glad I did, and it gets easier the more time passes. Good luck, and don't be afraid to ask for help or support if you need it.

[fljoe0]

Good Luck to those who are quitting. You have to really want to quit for it to work. I'm not sure there are many substances harder to quit than tobacco. I didn't smoke for very long and it was really difficult to stop so I can't imagine what it is like for those who have smoked for a long time. I stupidly picked up the habit when I was in college and luckily was able to drop it 4 or 5 years later. My moment of disgust with myself that made me want to quit was when I got on a softball team with some of my friends after not playing for a couple of years. One night I made a long run for a ball in the outfield that was the final out and I was first up in our half of the inning. On the first pitch I sent a ball into the gap and had to run very hard and slide into 3rd. I popped up and couldn't catch my breath. I didn't expect to catch my breath right away but it seemed like forever before I could catch my breath. I was hoping the next guy up didn't do anything that was going to make me run again. I had never had anything happen like that and I just said, "I want no more of that." I wasn't a huge smoker but I had cravings for a very long time, dreams that I was smoking and all the other stuff you guys had. So I can't imagine how hard it is for someone with 20 or more years of it.

[Srbo]

Well...if John`s passing is not enough motivation for us...nothing will be.

For I believe that smoking had A LOT to do with his passing...

[tower-obsession]

Well...if John`s passing is not enough motivation for us...nothing will be.

For I believe that smoking had A LOT to do with his passing...

I do too, Srbo.

And I H.A.T.E. that cigarettes are in control here. I'm going to go buy one of those e-cig thingies I saw the other day. They were cheap at the store I saw them in, and maybe it'll help.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Well...if John`s passing is not enough motivation for us...nothing will be.

For I believe that smoking had A LOT to do with his passing...


Hi, Srbo-

Please correct me if I'm mistaken, but I seem to recall an old post of yours, saying that you'll never quit smoking, simply because you had no desire to do so, at the time. Have you had a change of heart since then?

I sure hope you're motivated now.:)


("All things serve the Beam")

[Srbo]

Working on it, Dustin.
For a long time now I`ve been smoking only 3 or 4 cigarettes a day, sometimes only 2...which is not bad at all, so far, anyway.
Hoping for better..

[nate_watkins]

Working on it, Dustin.
For a long time now I`ve been smoking only 3 or 4 cigarettes a day, sometimes only 2...which is not bad at all, so far, anyway.
Hoping for better..

Not bad. Before I quit, I was down to 6-10 a day. (Unless there was alcohol involved). Then I was sick for a few days last spring, and my desire to smoke was very limited. I had about half a pack or less, and I said to myself I'm not going to buy any more. I haven't; I smoked one a day until they were gone, and that was it.

I can't say it was easy, but it was worth it. If anything, at least I'm not giving my money to the tobacco industry anymore.

[tower-obsession]

You'll get there, brother. I know you will.

[Stormseye]

I smoked about a half pack to a pack a day for maybe ten years. Tried to quit a whole bunch of times and just couldn't do it. Finally used the patch, and it totally worked for me. I went through the whole three step program just as they say. It was still hard, but it helped SOOO much. I really feel that company saved my life. I'm so happy it's over. Been nearly ten years since I've had a smoke.

[Connie Reader]

I started smoking when I was 19 and tried a few times to quit. When I was 22 I came down with walking pneumonia, a nasty case of bronchitis and pleurisy all at once. I was in the hospital for a week and came out with asthma. I started smoking again after three months, I used my boyfriend and I breaking up as an excuse. I halfheartedly tried to quit a few more times, but always went back to it. Four years ago my husband (then fiancee) kept bugging me to quit. I had pared it down to three to four cigarettes a day and told him to stop hassling me and that I would quit the moment I found out I was pregnant.
and I did.
Threw an entire pack in the trash when that home pregnancy test showed two bars. It was the easiest thing in the world to do, considering how hard it had been before.
After I had my son, I didn't smoke for a year, and then I went out with a few girlfriends and had one while we had a few beers.
My son is three and a half now and I haven't had a non-drinking cig since Jan 13, 2008.
One of my oldest friends mother was just diagnosed with lung cancer and I know it's from her years and years of chain smoking, but I still can't say I'll never have another. For some reason just having one or two every few months doesn't seem as bad as the pack a day habit I had just a few years ago.
I would like to have another child, hoping to get knocked up sometime this spring, so at least the habit will be driven underground for a few more years at least. Maybe after I have my next kid, I won't crave it at all after he or she is born.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Working on it, Dustin.
For a long time now I`ve been smoking only 3 or 4 cigarettes a day, sometimes only 2...which is not bad at all, so far, anyway.
Hoping for better..


That is FANTASTIC news, Srbo!!
Keep up the good work, my brother. You can do it, I just know you can!

Please keep us posted.


("All things serve the Beam")

[momone53]

I quit when I found out I was pregnant, that was 20 years ago and I am proud to say I never went back to it. My husband quit on the same day, I'm glad we didn't kill each other! It was hard to do, but it was the best thing. It's like they say, you have to just take it one day at a time, one hour at a time, one second at a time if necessary. I know you can all do it.

[tower-obsession]

I quit when I found out I was pregnant, that was 20 years ago and I am proud to say I never went back to it. My husband quit on the same day, I'm glad we didn't kill each other! It was hard to do, but it was the best thing. It's like they say, you have to just take it one day at a time, one hour at a time, one second at a time if necessary. I know you can all do it.

Thank you for that. This is harder than I thought.

[ConstantReader1973]

Thank you for that. This is harder than I thought.

It gets easier, really. You can do it. Just keep reminding yourself that quitting is what you REALLY want. Your brain will try to tell you that you really want to smoke, but it's lying. There's a reason you decided to quit, hang on to that reason. And don't give up completely if you slip up and smoke one, or two. Keep going. I had to use the patch, and I followed the recommended quit regimen exactly. Plus I got myself a 5 pound bag of Dum-Dums. I felt like Telly Savales (sp?), but it helped to have something in my mouth. You CAN do this!

[Brian - Metro]

Thank you for that. This is harder than I thought.

Maybe you should check this out: Google Search for "the effects of nicotine on the brain" (http://www.google.com/search?q=the+effects+of+nicotine+on+the+brian&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=28v&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&sa=X&ei=d08HT4M-gfbSAdO7nZMN&ved=0CBgQBSgA&q=the+effects+of+nicotine+on+the+brain&spell=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&fp=c595b4881a49e881&biw=2560&bih=1417)

[tower-obsession]

Thank you so much, CR and Brian. It helps to know that someone wants me to succeed at this.

I can.

I will.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Thank you so much, CR and Brian. It helps to know that someone wants me to succeed at this.

I can.

I will.


We ALL want you to succeed, Tawn. And you WILL!


("All things serve the Beam")

[tower-obsession]

Thanks, Dustin! (hugs)

[Terry B]

Thank you so much, CR and Brian. It helps to know that someone wants me to succeed at this.

I can.

I will.

YES YOU CAN! YES YOU CAN! YES YOU CAN!

[Srbo]

Since last week ( with the exception of Friday, I had about 7 or 8 while chatting here with you guys in John`s honor...that was the beer doing it, too ), no more than 2 a day, mostly just one with the morning coffee.

[kingricefan]

Thank you so much, CR and Brian. It helps to know that someone wants me to succeed at this.

I can.

I will.

Said in my best Ahhhnold voice: You can do it!

[Terry B]

Since last week ( with the exception of Friday, I had about 7 or 8 while chatting here with you guys in John`s honor...that was the beer doing it, too ), no more than 2 a day, mostly just one with the morning coffee.

Quitting was the hardest thing that I ever went through but I did it. I kept telling myself (with the help of a good support system) that I wanted to know what life was like without that crutch. Welllll.............it's pretty darned nice. Hang in there my friend.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Since last week ( with the exception of Friday, I had about 7 or 8 while chatting here with you guys in John`s honor...that was the beer doing it, too ), no more than 2 a day, mostly just one with the morning coffee.


Good, that's great to hear, Srbo!:) Keep it up, and please keep us informed.
We are have faith in you!


("All things serve the Beam")

[tower-obsession]

I haven't had a whole one since I decided to quit. Sometimes I get one halfway smoked before I put it out, but most of the time, I'll light one and take a puff or two and then think about it. And put it out.

I really want one of those e-cig things. I get paid Friday. I'll buy one then.

[ConstantReader1973]

I haven't had a whole one since I decided to quit. Sometimes I get one halfway smoked before I put it out, but most of the time, I'll light one and take a puff or two and then think about it. And put it out.

I really want one of those e-cig things. I get paid Friday. I'll buy one then.

That's good. You're motivated to quit and you're working on it. Keep it up! BTW, let me know how the e-cig thing works for you. I'm trying to get my hubby to quit, and I'm wondering if it might work for him.

[kingricefan]

Since last week ( with the exception of Friday, I had about 7 or 8 while chatting here with you guys in John`s honor...that was the beer doing it, too ), no more than 2 a day, mostly just one with the morning coffee.

And the liquor is what got me back into smoking ten years ago. It was a drink in one hand and a ciggy in the other! I am so-o glad I quit again and this time it's for ever!

[CCAL]

I had one whole cig today.I refuse to consider itr a failure (like I've done before) and will keep trying...does it count if you dont enjoy it ??:eyebrow:

[sheba41]

I want to quit!....but only the thought of it makes me want to smoke......I think that I am a loser for not trying harder:sad:

[Brian - Metro]

I had one whole cig today.I refuse to consider itr a failure (like I've done before) and will keep trying...does it count if you dont enjoy it ??:eyebrow:

When I quit, I did a ton of research and from what I learned...

*Every* time you have any smoke/nicotine your brains "addiction" is restored to its full strength in terms of cyclical cravings. So even if you only have *one* puff, your back to square one.

The best motto. "Not even a puff."

[fljoe0]

And the liquor is what got me back into smoking ten years ago. It was a drink in one hand and a ciggy in the other! I am so-o glad I quit again and this time it's for ever!

As well as the physical addiction, you have to kick the routine addiction too. When you have a routine of smoking every time you get into the car or every time you drink coffee, etc., the routine can trigger cravings. Try to find ways to change some of your routines also.

[Srbo]

Thanks, Brian. You seem to know everything there is to know about this...

[Brian - Metro]

Thanks, Brian. You seem to know everything there is to know about this...


Not sure if sarcastic or sincere...

14457

[Srbo]

Sincere, of course.
How does this come of as sarcastic?
Are you sarcastic now? :)

No really, thank you. There is a ton of good advice from you in this thread, I appreciate it a lot.

[Haunted]

As well as the physical addiction, you have to kick the routine addiction too. When you have a routine of smoking every time you get into the car or every time you drink coffee, etc., the routine can trigger cravings. Try to find ways to change some of your routines also.

This is a VERY, VERY GOOD POINT!

[Haunted]

I haven't had a whole one since I decided to quit. Sometimes I get one halfway smoked before I put it out, but most of the time, I'll light one and take a puff or two and then think about it. And put it out.

I really want one of those e-cig things. I get paid Friday. I'll buy one then.

I found this:

http://www.electroniccigarettereviewsite.net/

[randallFlaggfan1]

I want to quit!....but only the thought of it makes me want to smoke......I think that I am a loser for not trying harder

Sheba- you're not a loser AT ALL!
To be smoke-free is can be a very difficult process. I relapsed twice before I finally kicked the addiction to the curb.
You can DO IT!


("All things serve the Beam")

[Pale Rider]

I finally managed to quit after 25 years! You can do it Sheba

[tower-obsession]

Thanks for the info, Haunted. It's really helpful. I think I'll go with the disposable ones from the smoke shop at first, and then if they don't help, I'll go for a starter kit.

[Stan_Richards_of_Windsor]

I was proud of my mom. Stopped smoking without any help. Just one day, quit. (She still smokes whenever there's a death in the family though).