Working my b..tt off but still gaining..how can this be-

Hi guysI have started moving and fast walking an hour everyday to stop the weight gain. As of last week my weight gain was 4 pounds coming into the 4th week . The last week I have been walking and really watching what I eat. I am Mediteranian so our food is pretty healthy and light. Even then this past week with all that walking around and eating careful (no junk food) I gained a pound. I am 32 days into my quit and total gain is 5.5 pounds..Can somebody explain this to me? I know my metabolism slowed down but I am eating less and healthy and walking everyday and I am still gaining weight!! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!! When do things start turning into normal? again..DO I have to starve myself to stop myself from gaining weight???LoveSonata

walmart application

WAL-MART APPLICATION This is an actual job application that a 75 year old senior citizen submitted to Wal-Mart in Arkansas. They hired him because he was so funny..... NAME: Kenneth Way (Grumpy Bastard) SEX: Not lately, but I am looking for the right woman (or at least one who will cooperate) DESIRED POSITION: Company's President or Vice President. But seriously, whatever's available. If I was in a position to be picky, I wouldn't be applying here in the first place ? DESIRED SALARY: $185,000 a year plus stock options and a Michael Ovitz style severance package. If that's not possible,Herbal cigarettes, make an offer and we can haggle. EDUCATION: Yes. LAST POSIT ION HELD: Target for middle management hostility. PREVIOUS SALARY: A lot less than I'm worth. MOST NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENT: My incredible collection of stolen pens and post-it notes. REASON FOR LEAVING: It sucked. HOURS AVAILABLE TO WORK: Any. PREFERRED HOURS: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL SKILLS?: Yes, but they're better suited to a more intimate environment. MAY WE CONTACT YOUR CURRENT EMPLOYER?: If I had one, would I be here? DO YOU HAVE ANY PHYSICAL CONDITIONS THAT WOULD PROHIBIT YOU FROM LIFTING UP TO 50 lbs.?: Of what? DO YOU HAVE A CAR?: I think the more appropriate question here would be "Do you have a car that runs?" HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY SPECIAL AWARDS OR RECOGNITION?: I may already be a winner of the Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes, so they tell me. DO YOU SMOKE?: On the job - no! On my breaks - yes! WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS?: Living in the Bahamas with a fabulously wealthy dumb sexy blonde supermodel who thinks I'm the greatest thing since sliced bread. Actually, I'd like to be doing that now. NEAREST RELATIVE....7 miles DO YOU CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE IS TRUE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE?: Oh yes,quit smoking, absolutely. ***Old People Rock!***

Well, now I've done it. I weighed myself....

and it's not good. I posted that I've gained about 15 lbs. but noooooo, I've gained 22 lbs. in 6 months. So I decided to be proactive and take immediate action. I went to WalMart and bought Alli (no J, not as in Muhammad) as in diet pills. And this stuff is not cheap by the way. So first thing I popped one and THEN read about the side effects and checked the reviews on line. Each meal can have no more than 15 grams of fat. I'm ok with that most of the time but if you cheat the penalty is uncontrollable diarrhea (check me on the spelling J) and excessive flatulance (oh dear, already have it!). I was already at work when I took the first one,stop smoking now, then read a review on line that on your first day you should wear dark pants,smoking cessation, and take a change of clothes. Of course, I had on white pants. Other users suggested using panty liners or Depends. Alli is supposed to block 25% of fat absorption so guess where the fat comes out? Here's two quotes I found: “I’ve pooped my pants 3 times today, and sorry to get descriptive but it even leaked onto the couch at one point!” writes one user. It can strike any time ― even in the early hours of the morning. One user writes: “Ya know how when you start moving around in the morning ya pass a little gas. Well, I did and then went into the bathroom and to my horror I had an orange river of grease running down my leg.”Believe it or not, I'm still going to give it a whirl. I didn't poop in my white pants so I'll just go out and get some Depends and dark pants. And I will have to be really anal (sorry) about counting fat grams. By the way, has anyone here tried Alli?

Worried about my thoughts...

Hi everybody,Lately I have to say the cigarettes have been more appealing than ever. I seem to notice them all around and have to force myself not to stare at them. I'm at about 7 weeks now, and I'm supposed to lower my patch dosage tomorrow,smoking cessation, so I'm a bit worried about what these thoughts mean. I mean I know it's normal to still have cravings, but I guess I just feel afraid of actually caving in one day and ending back at square one. The past 7 weeks have been quite the roller coaster and I just don't want to ever have to go through any of this again. Not sure what I'm looking for here,quit smoking now, just felt the need to let some stuff out! My life is so much better without cigarettes and I do not want to ever start believing in the lie again.Take care,Brian

This is important

Saw on the news this morning that males are not good at multi tasking. I, can keep my feet propped up while sitting in my easy chair. At the same time I will have the game on tv and be listing to the other game on the radio. This in addition to drinking beer and eating peanuts while my eyes are closed and thinking about a new vette for the races this year. In addition to this I am aware that the neighbors wife is cutting the grass and he will be over soon to view her work from this side. Who says males cant multi task? KTQ

The Lighter Side_29751

Body LanguageA man is doing yard work and his wife is about to take a shower. The man realizes that he can't find the rake. He yells up to his wife,stop smoking, "Where is the rake?" She can't hear him and shouts back,quit smoking, "What?"The man first points to his eye, then points to his knee and finally makes a raking motion.The wife is not sure and says, "What?" The man repeats his gestures. "EYE KNEE THE RAKE"The wife replies that she understands and signals back. She first points to her eye, next she points to her left breast, then she points to her butt, and finally to her crotch.Well, there is no way the man can even come close on that one. Exasperated, he goes upstairs and asks her "What in the friggin' hell was that?" She replies, "EYE - LEFT TIT - BEHIND - THE BUSH".

Things that are really getting on my nerves today!

Today so far I feel alot better than yesterday. But my wonderful husband (nygiantsfan) is really getting on my nerves. He is calling me at work thinking that I am going to feel bad that he is craving. Boo hoo hoo is all I can say. At least he has the option to get out of his office. Do you not remember that I don't even get a lunch NYGiantsFan so that I can leave early enough to get our daughter off the school bus. The aroma of all the smokers after they take their 10 min smoking break is alot to take. I thought I was going to lick somebody's arm!! So boo hoo hoo NYGiantsFan. I am so sad for you.BTW. Can't wait to see what you are making for dinner tonight. Im starving.

Tis the Season

As many of you know .. I deticated my sticky quit to my step son that was killed in a car crash a year ago July.. Last year the season approached us, and it was all a blurr.. so many emotional days, and yet I am here and still continuing to grow and learn,stop smoking, even through life's disaster's, we are all attune to survival.. Not a day goes by that I dont think about him, but it is getting better.. This really keeps me in check with those craving's that creep up every now and again... I think about him.. and I knowI will make it through the "crave"This year we are having a food drive in honor and in memory of Mikey Jr.This has helped me realize how important my quit is, and has helped me to be able to do for those that are in need.. We never really know when our time on earth is up, and for some it is far too soon.. Living life to the fullest and being able to give back to the community and all the neighbors and friends that come together, when familiies are in need.. That was us last year... and so many people gave to us unselfishly, it was the most humbling experience I have ever gone through... So this holiday season we are giving back to those in need and helping to fill the gap,quit smoking now, when people have no food and little hope.. It is such a gratifiying feeling to be able to give... and warm the hearts that are broken.. even for just a while....Tis the season.. to GIVE... to SHARE, and to LOVE... make peace and forgive those who have hurt you, because you just never know when there time is at end... For this year I will try not to mourn, but to rejoice in knowing that Mikey will always be with us in spirit... Blessing's to all... KEEP THE QUIT!!!!! Kat

Tornado sirens

I guess I really didn't realize we were in a tornado warning until I turned the tv to the news,quit smoking, (had been watching diners drive inns and dives) then realized the sirens were going off. and apparently when the sirens go off and you happen to be in Walmart they lock the doors and don't let you out until the warning is over My son's buddy called and said he is trapped in Walmart....now is this legal???? I knew it was raining out and I did hear some thunder, but it didn't sound too bad because I have the house closed up ,stop smoking now, I had the air on only to get the humidity out. it is not hot but it is very humid. maybe after the storms the Humidity will go away. well it sounds like it is starting again I hear more thunder (or maybe that is my son's truck ). dang the radar on the tv looks pretty nasty

THE NOSMO CHALLENGE

Many of us, for various reasons will be finding life more stressful than we did before. It will have nothing to do with smoking or not smoking but everything to do with the way our economy is, our personal life,smoking cessation, the Holidays, etc.This time of year, when everything is supposed to warm and wonderful, people tend to be hard on themselves if in their own eyes, their life doesn't "measure up" to what we are told it should be.We need to gear up for the coming challenges that we will be facing and shore up our resolve to not smoke, to embrace the fact that no matter what the problem is smoking is not the answer and to be diligent in our support of each other.No matter whether our quit is 6 hours or 6 years, we are still vulnerable. To those of you who have recently quit, do not be frightened by the long term quitters who post for help. After all,Herbal cigarettes, this is a support group and it is here not only to "GET THE QUIT" but to "KEEP THE QUIT" as well. If you are new to the quitting process, it doesn't make your input any less valuable than anyone elses. I'm saying this because I know how April felt when she posted yesterday. I felt that way myself. My husband lost his job, I've had a bad time at work (but fortunately I'm just very busy-job security I guess). Going home last night, that zing of craving rocked through me. My mind and body, after 19 months of not smoking, still screamed for a cigarette. But I am lucky. God has given me a wonderful husband, who may be unemployed but when I said "I really need a cigarette" said "No you don't-remember smoking is not the answer, it never was". So, are we all in this together? One for all and all for one? What do you say?

This will be a Strange weekend

This is going to be a strange weekend for me. I will be going to a Paintball game for the first time as a non-smoker. My son's team paid for me to come and play at this game to try out my new marker. Can't wait to see everyone there at the game it will just be interesting to experience the weekend with out having a smoke. I am a person that will always do what I say I'm going to do so I am making a promise here that I will not have a smoke any of the days that I am gone. Telling all of you will make it even more real to me because if I slip I will have to come back on line Tues. and tell you.

SUZIEQUE AND THE FAT FARM

Well folks, this one takes the cake - pardon the pun. One nightmare after another. Here goes:1. My assigned roommate has serious hygiene & Oscar Madison type problems. Took 3 days to get moved to another room (I threatened not to pay which got results). Couldn't just leave cos of the Noreaster. Am in Vermont. Mucho snow.2. New lovely room has NO INTERNET access, even though promised and then was told it would take 2 weeks to install. Am on a public PC in a den area right now.3. Some moron in serious need of help tried to bite my head off because I smiled at her. Yup, I kid you not. She asked what was wrong with me and told me I had the phoniest smile she'd ever seen. Anyone here spell L-I-T-H-I-U-M I-M-B-A-L-A-N-C-E??4. I would've left by now EXCEPT the idiots here don't maintain the grounds in/near the condos I'm staying in and I bottomed my car driving slowly up the steep hill to my room. Think exaust pipe leading to muffler needs to be bolted back into place. Hoping its that minor. No auto repair shops are open on Sunday. Hoping to hook up with honest (does such a thing exist?) repair guy tmow. Oh also was screamed at by staff intern when I used hotel car,quit smoking, even though I have a letter saying this was okay, by the head cheese who works here.I guess when you add it all up, I am NOT as sick and twisted as I thought I was - this place has many fine candidates for the looney bin. And no,stop smoking, I haven't smoked.P.S. I may have lost a few ounces.

The Day I Quit

Well, it had been a frustrating day. I decided to leave the shop a little early since it had been a day that hadn't accomplished anything anyway. A short drink before heading home would relieve some stress so I stopped at the only bar I frequented. Since it was before quitting time there wasn't anyone there except an old friend of mine. I'll call him Charley.I always liked Charley. He was a nice guy, came from Old California stock and was educated abroad. We had many conversations over a glass of wine. The wine, however,Herbal cigarettes, had been his downfall. It had been responsible for tragic things in his life as well being a refuge for him when tragic things occurred. He looked much older than his years. The wine had taken it's toll on Charley.As we made small talk, I reached for my cigarettes, took one out and threw them on the bar. I pointed at the pack and said, "I wish I could quit these things". Charley, without hesitating,stop smoking, pointed at his glass of wine and said, "I wish I could quit this". There was hopelessness in his voice.I saw myself in Charley. We were both hooked on something that was destroying our health. It really made an imprint on me. I kept asking myself as I drove home, even after I stopped to pick up a pack of cigs, "When am I going to quit?" By the time I got home I decided today was the day I quit after 36 yrs. of smoking. It was the toughest thing I ever did. Made Boot Camp seem like a vacation paradise. I hung on, posted on the board, gritted my teeth every morning and faced another day without cigarettes.Charley was always supportive of my quit. He didn't scoff at my struggle like other smokers who say that they're your friends. The flow of wine continued and Charley's health went down hill. A mutual friend who was Chief of Staff at the hospital was finally able to convince him to go in for a check up. The Dr.'s said he needed a little tune up and scheduled him for surgery. I went to see him briefly the night before his operation. He never woke up after the surgery. Died a week later.I never told him that he was the catalyst for my quit. That was my secret until now. He did more good than he knew. He just might have saved my life.Keep the Quit! Aloha

The world's shortest Fairy Tale in history....

World's Shortest Fairy TaleOnce upon a time, a guy asked a girl "Will you marry me?"The girl said, "NO!"And the girl lived happily ever after and went shopping, dancing, camping,drank martinis, always had a clean house, never had to cook, had sex withwhomever she pleased, did whatever the hell she wanted,quit smoking, never argued, didn'tget fat, travelled more, had many boyfriends, saved more money, and had allthe hot water to herself . She watched chick flicks, never football, neverwore fricken lacy lingerie that went up her ass, had high self esteem, nevercried or yelled,smoking cessation, felt and looked fabulous in sweat pants, and burped, swore,and farted all the time. Oh yeah!

The Reality of Smoking_14257

The holiday season can be very stressful for a lot of people. Especially for people quitting smoking. When we first quit or maybe even after we have been quit for a while and are under stress. Strong thoughts to smoke may come up. " Oh if I only had a cigarette." or " I'm under so much stress right now. I could sure use a cigarette." So what is it about the cigarette that is going to make what is wrong with your day feel so right after you smoke it? What is that cigarette really going to do for you? Are you fantasizing about smoking a cigarette and have all of your stress just wash away? Well I hate to break it to you, but that is a fantasy and not the reality of smoking. I was in a chat room the other day and had two interesting conversations. One was an arguement with someone who gives advice on how to quit smoking, about smoking relieving stress. Someone was under a lot of stress and wanted to smoke a cigarette. He mentioned to them that smoking only temporarily relieves the physical stress and the person is still left with the mental stress. I disagree. SMOKING DOES NOT RELIEVE STRESS!! IT CREATES IT! He said that when a person smokes a cigarette. That nicotine relieves the muscle tension caused by stress. Thus relieving the physical symptoms of stress. I then asked him if a person that has never smoked in their lives and were under stress and then smoked a cigarette. Would that cigarette releive their stress or would it only make them cough,quit smoking, feel shaky and ill and raise their heartbeat only to compound the initial stress with these ill effects? He responded,stop smoking now, " Eric we aren't talking about people that never smoked. We are talking about nicotine addicts.! THIS IS MY POINT EXACTLY!!!! A PERSON MUST BE IN THE PHYSICAL GRIP OF ADDICTION TO CREATE THE ILLUSION THAT SMOKING RELIEVES STRESS!! Nicotine is an unstable alkoloid. Stress is an acid producing event. When a person is under stress. This causes nicotine to get pulled out of the bloodstream much quicker. This will put the smoker into the first stages of withdrawal, thus compounding the problem that their initial stress caused. This will increase tension in the muscles as adrenaline is pumped through them thanks to nicotine's ability to also fit the smoker's adrenaline locks. A smoker will then smoke a cigarette which temporarily puts a stop to withdrawal. This eases the compounded tension that withdrawal was creating, but it did not relieve any stress. On the contrary. It has created stress in a different way, because after smoking that cigarette. The person's heartbeat has raised about 20 beats more a minute. It does so, because it is trying to combat the ill effects that the cigarette created. The problem though, is that the carbon monoxide from the cigarette in the blood is making it harder for the blood to be able to carry oxygen to the heart. Making the heart have to work harder, because it is already working harder, because of smoking. A catch 22 scenario. A smoker will never be as calm as a non smoker. Give someone who has never smoked in their life and is under a great amount of stress, a cigarette and you will see that it does nothing, but make them feel ill. It relieves nothing and probably only adds to their problem. Give an ex smoker who has not smoked in a long time a cigarette and they will most likely experience these same ill effects. The only difference between a never smoker and an ex smoker is that an ex smoker has memories that smoking did in fact relieve their stress. This can make the ex smoker stubborn, because even if they didn't find that great stress reliever in the first cigarette. They might still try to find that great stress relieving miracle in the 2nd one and the 3rd and so on. Until they are back to where they started. In the grip of addiction where they will in fact need a cigarette when they are under stress. This brings me to my 2nd conversation. Someone then asked me, if learning all this technical jargon actually helped me to quit smoking? It absolutely did. Not because of the fact that it is "technical jargon", but because it made me realize something that I used to believe. I used to believe that smoking relieved my stress. IT DOES NOT! Smoking can only do one thing. It can only replenish lost nicotine. It can only relieve an anxiety that the previous cigarette created. It can only relieve the stress that it created in the first place!! Knowing this has completely stripped away the undue credit that I used to give cigarettes. When I am under stress, I have no thoughts to smoke whatsoever. Why? Because I no longer believe in the cigarette. I know the truth! So are you under stress? Are you having strong urges to smoke? Do you think that if you smoke a cigarette, all will be right with the world? Really think it through. Not in a fantasy way, but in the reality way. A CIGARETTE CAN ONLY RELIEVE AN ANXIETY THAT THE PREVIOUS CIGARETTE CREATED. SO WHAT CAN ONE CIGARETTE DO? IT CAN CREATE THAT ANXIETY!! A cigarette can only possibly do two things. Start the cycle of addiction back up or create withdrawals again. Again, a smoker will never be as calm as a non smoker. Everytime a smoker is under stress. They HAVE to smoke to relieve the compounded stress that withdrawal creates. Not only that, but they HAVE to smoke day in and day out, week in and week out, month in and month out, year in and year out, only to relieve anxiety after anxiety, after anxiety, after anxiety that smoking created. That is the reality of smoking. Eric I freed myself on 7/7/04

This sure looks right to me.

Daily MotivatorSeptember 30, 2006DesireIt is impossible to have a desire without also having the means to attain it. Whatever you truly desire is, in a sense,stop smoking, already yours. For you could not sincerely desire it, if you could not realistically expect to have it.The more magnificent the desire, the more it will demand of you. Even so, it is within your reach. And on a certain level you know this already, without any doubt. The desire itself is evidence.Your dilemma is not that your desires are unobtainable,stop smoking now, but rather which ones to pursue. Choose them thoughtfully, with care and integrity, because the ones you choose will come to pass.The desires which you've previously chosen have brought you precisely to where you are right now. Just as surely will the desires you focus on today bring about the substance of your tomorrow.Copyright Ralph S. Marston, Jr. Used by permission. From The Daily Motivator? at http://www.dailymotivator.com

Sad, Political, Offensive and depressing

j/k, only informative! Laughter, it's said, is the best medicine. And there's lots of evidence that laughter does lots of good things for us.It reduces pain and allows us to tolerate discomfort.It reduces blood sugar levels, increasing glucose tolerance in diabetics and nondiabetics alike.It improves your job performance, especially if your work depends on creativity and solving complex problems. Its role in intimate relationships is vastly underestimated and it really is the glue of good marriages. It synchronizes the brains of speaker and listener so that they are emotionally attuned.Laughter establishes -- or restores -- a positive emotional climate and a sense of connection between two people, In fact, some researchers believe that the major function of laughter is to bring people together. And all the health benefits of laughter may simply result from the social support that laughter stimulates.Now comes hard new evidence that laughter helps your blood vessels function better. It acts on the inner lining of blood vessels, called the endothelium, causing vessels to relax and expand, increasing blood flow. In other words, it's good for your heart and brain, two organs that require the steady flow of oxygen carried in the blood.At this year's meeting of the American College of Cardiology, Michael Miller, M.D., of the University of Maryland reported that in a study of 20 healthy people,Herbal cigarettes, provoking laughter did as much good for their arteries as aerobic activity. He doesn't recommend that you laugh and not exercise. But he does advise that you try to laugh on a regular basis. The endothelium, he explains, regulates blood flow and adjusts the propensity of blood to coagulate and clot. In addition, it secretes assorted chemicals in response to wounds, infection or irritation. It also plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease."The endothelium is the first line in the development of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries," said Dr. Miller. "So given the results of our study, it is conceivable that laughing may be important to maintain a healthy endothelium. And reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease."At the very least, he adds, "laughter offsets the impact of mental stress, which is harmful to the endothelium."The researcher can't say for sure exactly how laughter delivers its heart benefit. It could come from the vigorous movement of the diaphragm muscles as you chuckle or guffaw. Alternatively, or additionally,stop smoking now, laughter might trigger the release in the brain of such hormones as endorphins that have an effect on arteries.It's also possible that laughter boosts levels of nitric oxide in artery walls. Nitric oxide is known to play a role in the dilation of the endothelium. "Perhaps mental stress leads to a breakdown in nitric oxide or inhibits a stimulus to produce nitric oxide that results in vasoconstriction."Dr. Miller offers a simple prescription that won't bankrupt you and could save your life. "Thirty minutes of exercise three times a week, and 15 minutes of laughter on a daily basis is probably good for the vascular system," he says.

Starting Week Two-Better

I don't really know how I got through the last 2 rough days but....still here...still smoke free. I'm much better today. My husband is still clueless on how to help but he's mine and I love him to death. I guess it's time to start counting my blessings. First of all,smoking cessation, postings and getting replys has been a savior. When I write,quit smoking now, all the bad stuff goes away. Thank you all so much.I have a good life (getting better with quit). My husband really is a Sweetheart and loves me very much. AND...I heard today from my daughter that she and her husband are trying to have another baby. This will be number 7 grandchild. Love them all.That's the best motivation to stay with the quit.....Just had to write some positive stuff even though it was in the middle of a crave. I'm though it now and my thanks to you guys.Jen

Stressed out

Hey everoneI need some encouragement. I'm kinda stressed out because I may be losing my job due to a merger. I'm in the process of trying to find a less expensive apt, possibly trade in my car for one with a lower pmt with the anticipation I may have to survive on unemployment. I'm starting to send out resumes,quit smoking, but as you can imagine with this economy,stop smoking now, I have not had any responses. I'm upset because I'm my only source of income. No husband or boyfriend to turn to and no family either.... My thinking says that I will be homeless and hungry! Right now,I feel secure in my quit. I just need you to remind me why I don't need to smoke over this. I guess you can call it pre-emptive measures.

Quitting strategies-

Hey community! I'm a smoker interested in quitting. I'm a closet smoker who doesn't ever smoke until after work and never in social settings. However, on my own I definitely find myself smoking. On a typical weekend I smoke about 7-8 cigs per day, but more like 3-4 on weekdays. Assuming I wasn't "addicted" I thought I could just stop cold turkey, but am having uncomfortably strong cravings,quit smoking now, especially in the evenings! I tried a nicotine patch in the past (lowest dose) but got totally sped up with it (heart palpitations and all!) Anyway, I'm here for advice. I haven't smoked all week ('bout five days now). I can get through the day without a problem, but the nights are tough. Getting into the weekend,stop smoking now, nights are even getting tougher. Have any of you tried tapering your smoking to off? I mean, instead of stopping cold turkey (like I have), have you actually just reduced your smoking until you stopped and quit successfully? I guess I'm asking because I feel like if I smoke one right now, I can take the edge off and maybe even get some sleep. If this craving keeps up, though, I feel like I will just be up all night until I break down and smoke a half a pack in one sitting! Thoughts??? Let me know! I would be so appreciative!

Smokers Vow

The Smoker’s VowTo be said just before taking your first puff afterhaving quit for any appreciable period of time With this puff I enslave myself to a lifetime of addiction. While I can’t promise to always love you, I do promise to obey every craving and support my addiction to you no matter how expensive you become. I will let no husband or wife, no family member or friend,quit smoking, no doctor or any other health professional, no employer or government policy, no burns or no stench, no cough or raspy voice, no cancer or emphysema, no heart attack or stroke,quit smoking now, no threat of loss of life or limbs, come between us. I will smoke you forever from this day forth, for better or worse, whether richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part! “You may now light the cigarette.” “I now pronounce you a full-fledged smoker.” Postscript: While 1 in 2 marriages end in divorce, the addiction to smoking will last a lifetime―albeit a shorter lifetime. Once a smoker, annulment of the addiction is impossible. One puff can result in a permanent relapse. Don’t take the chance of relapsing to this marriage of inconvenience. NEVER TAKE ANOTHER PUFF!

Snowblower update-SAINT NICK tonight...!!!!

I am consolidating..rotf...Well, I bought the new "used" snowblower and it did not work as you might know already...so the guy did not call me back, he CAME OVER at 7:40 A M Saturday morning. Yes,stop smoking, it is true...and I was in my jammies..well, he rings the bell and the first thing he says is..."I know what is wrong with your snowblower"...mmmmmm "I'm listening" and he said that the snow was too wet...well, all of my neighbors had their driveways/sidewalks cleared, using their snowblowers; and I pointed that out. So, he went to the garage and fired the thing up. He proceeded to try it out and it konked out every single time. (numerous times) So...finally he came back and said "it is the carborator"...Now I had to bite my tongue because he still had my $150. And so he said that "what I REALLY needed is a bigger better snowblower to do the amount of snowblowing that you must do"...(large driveway).. "I will have one of THOSE at the end of the week, however it will cost you an extra $100,smoking cessation, or I suppose I could give you your money back"...with the slightest pause--(I was tactful)...GIVE ME MY FRIGGIN' MONEY BACK!!!!!..jest kiddingI just nodded and said I will take the money back..SO he reaches in his wallet..there was a SWEATY WAD there in that wallet, and he goes, very melancholy with a real sadness in his voice, "yeah I just cashed my pension check"...."let me see"..alright then"...And that was that. He took that snowblower off of my premises and back to his garage, whereby I am positive I will see it again as I go past his house every morning when I run...So, I went and bought three new ergonomically crafted snow shovels whereby there is much less stress on the back..and I will see what I can buy new, as far as a snowblower, late winter-when the sales come.the end...*smile*Just a reminder!!!! As I am sure you guys all know--but WOW my coworker reminded me today!!! SAINT NIC comes tonight...this year I am prepared--except I am short two stockings. We used to have gazillion of those floating around. So, I must go out and get them!xoxoxo wishing you all a lovely smokefree evening!!!Love and hugs,katiem3y 9m quit

Smoking Dreams_28700

Hello everyone!!Last night I hit a new point in my quit. Every now and then I would have a dream where I was smoking in it, and in the dream I knew that I had failed in my quit. When I awoke I realized it was just a dream,stop smoking now, but it still bothered me that I would waste a good dream on smoking..... Well. Last night I had another dream that I wanted a smoke, but I didn't have any. I actually had to go to a store in my dream to pick up a pack. When I finally got the pack in my hands I instantly realized I don't smoke anymore and handed them back to the cashier. I walked out of the store feeling good about my decision and my dream continued on.... without the guilt.I find this amazing. Why you might ask? Your dreams are controlled by your subconscious and there it can live out your daily desires and thoughts without consequence. It has now become aware that I don't desire or want to smoke anymore. Sorry to get all excited over a silly dream,smoking cessation, but to me it is another victory.Anyone else have interesting smoking dreams after their quit?

routines

In the morning,quit smoking now, my hubby goes out on the deck for his cigarette, since he went back to it two weeks ago. I was going with him, even after I got my quit back. It was bugging me. Today, when he said, 'come outside with me?' I said, nah hon, I think I'm gonna sit in here and read the paper with my coffee instead. He was disappointed, I could tell. But I figure, if I make it pleasant, and be his non smoking, smoking buddy and it bugged me,stop smoking now, how is that a good thing? So, today he came in quicker after his morning cig and sat with me and we had coffee together.I don't want to establish the unhealthy routine of going out there with him every morning.I pledge not to smoke today. It's a beautiful day!!!Love, Wendy

Smoke or Chew -- {a sort of green eggs and ham knock-off}

I am HAM (have another Marlboro)HAM I amThat HAM I am that HAM I amI do not like that HAM I amDo you like to smoke or chew?I do not like to smoke or chewI quit that crapI’m doneI’m throughWould you smoke them on a busSmoke or dip, there is no fuss!I will not smoke them on a busOr dip or pipe you silly cussWould you smoke them in a house?Will you smoke them with a mouse?Not in a houseNot with a mouseNot on a busYou crazy cussI do not like to smoke or chewI told you foolI said I’m through!Will you smoke them in a car?Will you smoke them in a bar?Could you smoke them after meals?Smoke or dip would seal the deal.Not in a carNot at a barNot after mealsThere *is* no deal!I do not like to smoke or chewI’ll say againI said I’m through!A train,Herbal cigarettes, a trainWould you could you on a train?Would you could you in the rain?I will not will not on a trainI would not could not in the rainI am a quitter don’t you see?My quit’s the goal,stop smoking, you bother me!I do not like to smoke or chewI vowed to quit!Now how ‘bout you?

Some people are not READY

When I tell smokers, I quit the consensus is "I need to Quit"and then some would just look at me with a smirk. and then I say to myself, I am humble about my quit and even though people will justify why they continue to smoke? just listen to them, and suggest to them "You will know when you are ready to quit, and you have to do it for yourself"Because we were them, so never judge them, because I remember when I was about 25yrs old, about 10yrs ago, and a lady on Oxgyen in a wheel chair saw me puffing away, said beautiful lady if you know what I know, you would not smoke, I looked at her with a blank stare, so we can not judge, but we can be here and encourage others when they are ready.You have to educate, have a plan(triggers), and do it for yourself, when you are just plain tired of smoking. This is DOABLE, i FEEL THIS IS WHAT KEEPS ME GOING IN MY QUIT..When I see smokers, I just say man, that used to be me...I am glad I put my pride down and embraced the unknown, and became completely Vulnerable, to allow my self to Quit smoking and as my journey continues down the unknown path but all to familiar path as a non-smoker,Herbal cigarettes, I started smoking at 18 yrs old, and I smoked for 19 yrs, with stopping when I was pregnant in between there 5 years ago,quit smoking now, this is my longest quit, almost 5 months. and I do not know if any of you feel this... But I am doing things that I used to do in my teens as a non-smoker, that I enjoy, like writing, journaling and more of my creative juices are coming out since I quit... I love it!Smoking robbed me of so much, my physical energy, mental energy etc.I love it

Soooooo.....hows the weather-

On a lighter note, nothing too interesting happened in skewl today (oh darn) but yours truly did make a "B" on my first Anatomy & Physiology test!Yipee,smoking cessation, and, (this is the same teacher in Biology lab that had the dripping dead cat in the bag) I'm kinda getting to have fun in that class, she said I can bring in all kinds of "stuff" to take a lookie at under the microscope! Bless her heart, poor thang didn't know she opened a bag of worms with that invitation (snicker) (hmmm, worms...yes...that's an idea! and how about spider guts? If I see a spider, then guts are surely to follow....another idea?)As far as the weather, well, it's hot & humid,quit smoking now, the all knowing weather people (said sarcasticly) are calling for cooler weather (80's) next week and that will be nice.How did YOUR day go? Anyone have an interesting day they would like to share?

STRESS MANAGEMENT (this is what I'm talkin bout)

Just in case you are having a rough day, here is a stress management technique recommended in all the latest psychological journals.The funny thing is that it really does work and will make you smile.1. Picture yourself lying on your belly on a warm rock that hangs out over a crystal clear stream. 2. Picture yourself with both your hands dangling in the cool running water.3. Birds are sweetly singing in the cool mountain air.4. No one knows your secret place. 5. You are in total seclusion from that hectic place called the world.6. The soothing sound of a gentle waterfall fills the air with a cascade of serenity.7. The water is so crystal clear that you can easily make out the face of the person you are holding underwater.See? It really does work . You're smiling already.

Smoking alternatives-

Hey everyone!I myself am not a smoker, but my boyfriend is, and it really bothers me. He and I have discussed it several times before, and he knows not to smoke around me, but I still hate the fact he's become a habitual smokers and it really upsets me. That being said, I'm not going to force him to quit,stop smoking, because I think that will make both of us unhappy and I believe it's something he needs to do for himself, not me.Now,Herbal cigarettes, a few weeks ago we were at a Renaissance Faire and paid a visit to a natural, herbal smoke shop. I talked to the man selling the mixes, which had little to no tobacco in them and were non-addictive and significantly healthier than cigarettes. I would much prefer my boyfriend smoke mixes like these than tobacco, since it's healthier, lacks the chemicals and toxins, and smells and tastes much better. Unfortunately, the guy didn't have a website to order from regarding the mixes and I've scoured the internet trying to find some sort of alternative to tobacco and can't find anything. Does anyone know of any good tobacco alternatives that my boyfriend can still smoke but will make me feel more at ease with it?Thanks- and I apologize in advance if this thread is misplaces or something.

Some input please

When I was still living in Michigan a few of my friends (3 in particular) had quit smoking - or had they?One was only smoking when she went to the casino????Another one also smoked at the casino and claims to be a non smoker now for at least 20 years?????Another one took a cig from a friend and claimed she never needed it but just wanted to see what it was like to smoke again and then claimed she would not do it again????I watched when I was around them and no they never did smoke at home or when we went out to eat etc. but to be a non smoker does it not mean to totally not smoke again?The one who smokes at the casino only did tell me she bought a pack and had 5 and then threw them away.For me being a non smoker means not one puff.Are these people considered to be closet smokers or what?My daughters godmother had quit before I met her and I had no idea she ever smoked until she told me she used to smoke. She was the only one of the bunch who never did take a puff again. I never knew she ever smoked. I would have to think that the rest are still smokers when it suits them?

Rebellion

Good morning and great smoke free day to everyone.Bye the way Nicodemon Goodbye.Smoking is not freedom it is slavery. I use to say, " No one is going to tell me what to do. I'll smoke rather they like it or not." I thought of myself as a rebel because I smoked. That seems pretty funny now. Cigerettes lead me around by the nose. It didn't matter what I was doing. I would interrupt it if I wanted to smoke. I would find excuses to get away from situations that I would have enjoyed other wise,smoking cessation, I wasn't a rebel--------------------I WAS A SLAVE!!!!!!!fREEDOM FROM SLAVERY IS MY PLEDGE TODAY,quit smoking,TO ALL AGAIN GOOD RIDDENS TO NICOTENE AND SMOKE.

Newbie here

Hi everyone:) My name's Debbie and I'm 31. I've quit smoking in the past for months at a time, but always relapse. That was before..... now I have a two year old that has chronic health issues and while I know someone's going to say 'you have to quit for you'...I REALLY have to quit for him. In the past I quit for other reasons,smoking cessation, such as basic training and a drill sergeant screaming in my face for a couple months. Another time was when I managed to honsestly quit upon finding out I was pregnant with my son, but started smoking again before I'd been released from the hospital. My husband had been sitting outside smoking and I went out to update him on when we'd be taking baby home, needless to say, without that baby in my belly, I decided to JUMP back on the SMOKE!So, now it's two years later, my son gets on average 6 hospitalizations a year and he sees a pulmonary specialist. At first they thought CF, but dna and sweat tests showed otherwise.I tell myself ALL the time, that we're (my husband and I) not hurting him, because we smoke in the garage. We have a torpedo heater and a tv mounted out there. But that's bull&^% right? It makes it's way into the house. MY mom says she can smell it when we're outside and she comes to visit, she can smell it in the room.SO I'm a BAD mommy. Anyway, I need some statistics and tips and maybe a few encouraging words. My kids are great and I love them dearly, but I'm hurting them everytime they breathe this crap in! Well,Herbal cigarettes, anyway, say what you must.http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=64095886My kids pics are all over my website if you want to see them. They're awsome kids.Well, I'm going to go get more juice now. I read somewhere that juice clears the nicotine out faster.

People with early lung cancer who quit smoking....

AP-Associated Press 1/21/2010:LONDON - People with early lung cancer who ,stop smokingquit smoking could double their chances of surviving, a new study says.Until now,stop smoking now, there has been little proof that quitting smoking after developing lung cancer makes any difference to survival.Lung cancer is the top cancer worldwide, and the prognosis is usually poor. Only about 7 percent of patients make it to five years, though about 20 percent of patients are diagnosed early enough to be treated.Of those who do live five years after diagnosis, 63 to 70 percent had quit smoking while 29 to 33 percent continuted smoking. The research was published Friday in the BMJ, formerly known as the British Medical Journal. The researchers analyzed previous data from 10 studies examining how long smokers survived after being diagnosed with lung cancer"The message is you should never give up on giving up (smoking)," said Amanda Parsons, of the U.K. Centre for Tobacco Control Studies at the University of Birmingham, who led the study. "Even at the stage where you have been diagnosed with early stage lung cancer ... if you give up smoking, your body can still partially recover and your risk is reduced," she said.While some doctors recommend lung cancer patients quit smoking, not all do. Some doctors and nurses "think it is inhuman to dwell on the matter ― that it adds to feelings of guilt and takes away a lifelong comfort from the dying patient," wrote Tom Treasure of University College London and Janet Treasure of King's College London in an accompanying editorial in the BMJ.

Oops moment

I came home from driving again from NC to VA today, and I did it on my own this time - with no smoking. It's kinda been a day cause we lost a pair of twins in the field and finally found them about an hour ago. OK, so I come home and my 17 yo tells me she found a pack of ciggarettes that apparently I had in a bookbag back in May. No, she did not have the sense to destroy them. And ok, I had a moment, but no, I have not touched them. So, somebody help me remember how far I have come ok? NOPE. ever,stop smoking, ever, ever,quit smoking, not even when you accidently find one.Just needed to sound off. BRB - going to destroy those suckers.BarbOne day from double digits - not blowing it now!!!!!!!

OK , so........

I was out in the yard watering,Herbal cigarettes, and just going about my business...... and I hear him.....I hear him all the time, but usually he's out back in the woods, harrassing all the other wildlife... lolso,, I'm watering my veggie garden..... and I hear this..... extremely loud shrill behind me,,,,,, I turned the sprayer off on the hose attachment,smoking cessation, turned around slowly... and danngggg I stood as still as could be and there he was again..... talk about freeking me out.. lol Everytime I see him he freeks me out..... he is soooooooooo BIG!!!!!! I know I have talked about him to Dutch and Bev, and some others..... but geeez... he is something.....take a look at what i am talking about....... luckily i have my head still, he has dive bombed me 2 times now.... lol he is so beautiful, I just love him!! I wonder if he has a mate, because I only ever see 1 at a time.

OK, the Pity Party is Over... The Choice is Mine

Hi all,So I went to the doctor today because I've been feeling like crap (physically & mentally) for a couple weeks now. I've got bronchitis and a sinus infection and can't really talk because my voice is so hoarse and sore, so my doc gave me meds I need. She asked me how the no smoking was going and I told her I'm working on 3 months, she's very happy and glad to hear this news. We discussed a few other things (weight gain, back pain,smoking cessation, extreme fatigue.....) and she came right out and said to me that I have two choices. I can sit in the house and continue to be fatigued and gain weight, or I can do something about it. She suggested that I take even just 10 minutes in the morning and go for a walk, and then do it again at night until I can increase my time (back pain is severe) Since I have joined weight watchers the weight should start coming off if I exercise along with the program. The doctor told me that 20 lbs is a lot to gain in 3 months and can take a toll both physically and mentally. So, all that said....... what does it boil down to? A Choice!!!!! Gee, doesn't THAT sound familiar?! I'm telling you it's these damn ruby slippers.... once again I've had the power all along! But in reality,stop smoking, we all have on ruby slippers because we all have the power to make a choice, whatever choice it is. A Choice..... and........ Attitude. The pity party is over, time to get on with my new nonsmoking life and embrace it. After all:10% of life is what happens to you, the other 90% is how you react to it............

perspective...

I am really trying to keep things in perspective. Mornings are always a difficult time for me whether I smoke or not. This is only the start of my second day not smoking but like everyone else (?) I keep having these random negative thoughts creep up. I usually give in to the thoughts in my head and don't challenge them. I am now looking around and realizing that life is good,stop smoking now, even though I may be feeling uncomfortable.. The truth is that I am doing something I can feel good about right now. Perspective is something I have spent alot of time thinking about. One of my three children has Autism and many times what he thinks is happening is not at all,quit smoking, just in his mind. I guess what I am rambling on about is the fact that I need to step back and try to see the beauty in this journey and know that things are not always what they seem..or I perceive them to be. I dont know if this will make sense to anyone, maybe I just needed to ramble away and distract myself. I hope everyone some has a great day and remember to be kind to yourself. Elise

Newbies (3)

Welcome,, Not One Puff make it your MANTRA down below is a post I did last night titled He Saved My Lifeit appears no one read about Bryan, but I am here to tell you it has a lot of power,quit smoking, and if you are serious about all this process he is a great palce to put some energy.. Cause it very well could be you, or could have been me,quit smoking now, lying in that bed.. So please take the time to honor his life by reading and maybe printing the article,, its what he wanted when he humbled himself so to allow the folks around him to write and photograph I know this is scary stuff, this quitting, but it is so DoAble and you ARE powerfulBlessings

People that disagree with quitting smoking.

I know quite a few people that disagree with quitting smoking, i'm about to list their points.Sorry, I feel the need to post this.- "I really enjoy smoking,stop smoking, why should I give that up?"My reply to this was "Lifes short and once you experience smoking once,stop smoking now, it's really nothing new.. so if you want to slice years from your life for a generic experience that does nothing for you go ahead."Long story short the guy really couldn't see my point and proceeded to quote "To live life is to skid sideways in your coffin with a glass of wine in your hand and a smoke in your mouth screaming AGAIN!" even if i'm quitting I kind of agree with him.- His friend then used my original arguement against me which I have heard many passionate smokers say "Your right life is short and I only want to be alive for the ups." the point to his arguement ended up being that the final 50 years of your life arn't worth it.- I've also heard people say "Smokings not as bad as people make out." they proceed to tell me how there 97 year old grandad was a 3 pack-a day reds smoker and that basically "Smokings worth the risk, you could die in a car accident on the way home."I mean their arguements arn't that far fetched, I know what there talking about..What do you think?

Positive Attitude & the Quit

Did you ever think to yourself....."self, you can do this (quit smoking)--people are doing it every day,smoking cessation, people are quitting this insidious cigarette smoking...and so can you...yes I can, yes I can, yes I can....Only to think to yourself..."I am sick and tired of thinking I can, when all I wanna do is get my @ss outside and smoke a friggin' cigarette" and I am SICK of telling myself and everyone that "I am soooooooo so glad I am done smoking" and then going about your day not giving a RAT'S @SS that you smell good and look good and feel good...all you wanna do is get outside and smoke that friggin' cigarette...Yep...OH YAH...I have been there....and the only thing I can tell you that works is TOTALLY AND COMPLETELY IGNORE yourself for the time being--as in DO NOT GIVE YOURSELF THE TIME OF DAY when you are thinking those kind of thoughts and focus on something ANYTHING else (KNITTING IF NEED BE!!!*smile*)...and practicing NOT ONE PUFF...because during the quitting process and for quite some time after that--for the most part, folks are not in their right minds. When we smoked we sooooooooooo tied those cancerstyx into our lives--intertwining them into every physical and more devastating--EMOTIONAL aspects of our lives...TIME...TIME...TIME...IS OUR BEST FRIEND...NOT ONE PUFF AND time...I IMPLORE YOU to give yourselves TIME...(taking the quit-one day at a time)...that is why the importance of NOT ONE PUFF and coming here--NOT as an escape,quit smoking now, but to use up that time, to get encouragement and doing something positive and use your time and NOT SMOKE! Time will pass and it gets easier---THAT is the hope and the promise!!!! (and it is all true!). One day you will not even be bothered or think about smoking cigarettes as they will become something remote that you really cannot believe you did in the first place...KTQ...it and especially YOU are sooooooooo so worth it!..xoxoxooxkatiem6y 4m quit

Protein and Carbohydrates

Hi! Is anyone knowledgeable about carbohydrates enough to let me know if the carbs in beans are the same as the carbs in white rice and bleached pasta? Only meat I eat is a few kinds of fish (since 1979) and trying to get more protein in my diet I got some organic red beans and while I was happy about the 11g in 1/4 cup of these beautiful beans,smoking cessation, I also noticed there are 31g carbs in the same amount. So,stop smoking now, if I eat one cup of these beans, I will not only be getting 44g of protein, but 124g of carbs. I know that white rice and bleached pasta carbs will turn to sugar in your body.....so are the carbs in beans the same?

Question for those well read in this quitting process.....

OK, last night, after the 2nd margarita (Yes, I knew better) I started feeling so God awful with withdrawals. My questions regarding drinking and nicotine are:1) As I am on the 14 mg patch right now, my alcoholic laided, acid urine pulled all the nicotine out of my system. I assume this was the problem?2) Once off the patch, with no nicotine in my system, this problem should stop then,quit smoking now, right?3) If it's true that drinking pulls the nicotine out of our systems via our acid urine, then wouldn't we want to drink during the first three days when going cold turkey? Get the nic out quicker... sort of like the water bit does?4) Nicotine isn't what's addicted. It's our blood, our organs, and systems that are addicted to the nicotine... otherwise,smoking cessation, after those 72 hours and the nic out of our system, we would be cured.... but we're not.It's our systems that have to get in balance, back to basic, back to life without the nicotine. Right? So WHY then do we put so much focus on that "Oh, 3 days, 72 little hours, and all the nicotine is out of your system!" Like at that point, we are cured???? Obviously, we're not, so why so much focus on that? Yeah, it's good to know that the poison is out of our body. How's about "Great, the nicotine is now gone from your body and your system can now begin to get into the balance it should be in. We can then maybe start looking at the "withdrawals" as symptoms of our bodies getting back to "basics"; healing - like a scab itches. This might change our thinking in so many ways - NOT a withdrawal, a healing. NOT life forever withdrawling and wanting a cigarette... everyone knows that bodies in most cases, eventually heal.Your thoughts and articles, please?

One Month thanks to all of you.

I'm celebrating.... one month.I didn't think that I would get there.Last week I faced a challenge at the Conference. my ol'e smoking groundsI figured out that those smokers.... like I did.... really stink.These are/were my friends.... but now they smell.I was able to NOT SMOKE..... because I no longer smoke.Last night I had a smoking dream,quit smoking,,,,, the one little puff.... it made me sick... and I woke.. like a childs nightmare.I was scared....Over the last couple days I've been sick at home and (have NOT thought of a cig...)This has been great...I'm here to say thank you for the rest of my life...... the cheater.... has passed on..+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++I have been quit for 1 Month, 2 hours,stop smoking now, 42 minutes and 18 seconds (30 days). I have saved $150.55 by not smoking 602 cigarettes. I have saved 2 Days, 2 hours and 10 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 4/20/2008 5:58 AM

MaryfromKansas

Thought I'd start you another thread. You mentioned giving your body a rest. You better believe...even on the patch...your body is already much happier. The dose of nicotine is much less then any cigarette. Plus...your lungs are saying ahhhhh...already. No toxic smoke,stop smoking now, no tar,smoking cessation, no umpteen other harmful chemicals clogging them up. Your skin is already happier as well. You are in the right place with lots of caring folks. We've all been where you are right now. It won't be long and your sense of smell is going to really come to life. So is your sense of taste. Get excited...you are going to love being free. Keep reading and posting and then read and post some more. NTAP maryfromsanantonio

New Reactions to Anger_26290

http://www.ffn.yuku.com/topic/191New Reactions to Anger as an Ex-smoker Dealing with emotional loss has similarities to dealing with anger in regards to smoking cessation and its aftermath. When smokers encounters a person or situation that angers them, they initially feel the frustration of the moment, making them -- depending on the severity of the situation -- churn inside. This effect in non-smokers or even ex-smokers is annoying to say the least. The only thing that resolves the internal conflict for a person not in the midst of an active addiction is resolution of the situation or, in the case of a situation which doesn't lend itself to a quick resolution, time to assimilate the frustration and in a sense move on. An active smoker though, facing the exact same stress has an additional complication which even though they don't recognize it, this complication creates significant implications to their smoking behavior and belief structures regarding the benefit of smoking.When a person encounters stress, it has a physiological effect causing acidification of urine. In non-active tobacco users, urine acidity has no real perceivable effect. It is something that internally happens and they don't know it, and actually, probably don't care to know. Nicotine users are more complex. When a person maintaining any level of nicotine in his body encounters stress, the urine acidifies and this process causes nicotine to be pulled from the bloodstream, not even becoming metabolized, and into the urinary bladder. This then in fact drops the brain's supply of nicotine, throwing the smoker into drug withdrawal. Now he is really churning inside, not just from the initial stress, but also from the effects of withdrawal.Interestingly enough, even if the stress is resolved, the smoker generally is still not going to feel good. The withdrawal isn't eased by the conflict resolution, only by re-administration of nicotine, or, even better, riding out the withdrawal for 72 hours. This totally eliminates nicotine via excretion from the body, metabolizing it into by-products that don't cause withdrawal. Most of the time,stop smoking now, the active smoker uses the first method to alleviate withdrawal, taking another cigarette. While it calms him down for the moment, its effect is short lived, basically having to be redone every 20 minutes to half hour for the rest of the smoker's life to permanently stave off the symptoms.Even though this is a false calming effect, since it doesn't really calm the stress, it just replaces the nicotine loss from the stress, the smoker feels it helped him deal with the conflict. It became what he viewed as an effective crutch. But the implications of that crutch are more far-reaching than just making initial stress effects more severe. It affects how the person may deal with conflict and sadness in a way that may not be obvious, but is nonetheless serious. In a way, it affects his ability to communicate and maybe even in some way, grow from the experience.Here is simple example of what I mean. Let's say you don't like the way a significant other in your life squeezes toothpaste. If you point out how it's a problem to you in a calm rational manner, maybe the person will change and do it a way that is not disturbing to you. By communicating your feelings you make a minor annoyance basically disappear. But now let's say you're a smoker who sees the tube of toothpaste, gets a little upset, and is about to say something, again, to address the problem. But wait. Because you are a little annoyed, you lose nicotine, go into withdrawal, and before you are able to deal with the problem, you have to go smoke. You smoke, alleviate the withdrawal and, in fact, you feel better. At the same time, you put a little time between you and the toothpaste situation and on further evaluation, you decide it's not that big of a deal, forget it. Sounds like and feels like you resolved the stress. But in fact, you didn't. You suppressed the feeling. It is still there, not resolved, not communicated. Next time it happens again, you again get mad. You go into withdrawal. You have to smoke. You repeat the cycle, again not communicating and not resolving the conflict. Over and over again, maybe for years this pattern is repeated.One day you quit smoking. You may in fact be off for weeks, maybe months. All of a sudden, one day the exact problem presents itself again, that annoying toothpaste. You don't have that automatic withdrawal kicking in and pulling you away from the situation. You see it, nothing else affecting you and you blow up. If the person is within earshot, you may explode. When you look back in retrospect, you feel you have blown up inappropriately, the reaction was greatly exaggerated for the situation. You faced it hundreds of times before and nothing like this ever happened. You begin to question what happened to you to turn you into such a horrible or explosive person. Understand what happened. You are not blowing up at what just happened, you are blowing up for what has been bothering you for years and now, because of the build up of frustration, you are blowing up much more severely than you ever would have if you addressed it early on. It is like pulling a cork out of a shaken carbonated bottle, the more shaken, the worse the explosion.What smoking had done over the years was to stop you from dealing with feelings early on. Instead, they festered and grew to a point where when they came out, it was more severe than when initially encountered. Understand something though. If you had not quit smoking, the feelings sooner or later would manifest. Either by a similar reaction as the blowup or by physical manifestations which ongoing unresolved stress has the full potential of causing. Many relationships end because of clamming up early on effectively shutting down conflict resolution by communication between partners. There's only one way to guarantee that early nicotine withdrawal never interferes with your conflict resolution and communications skills again,smoking cessation, by keeping in practice your commitment to NEVER TAKE ANOTHER PUFF!Joel

Need Help...

Ok so I have been keeping up the good fight and its been over 2 weeks now. I would say a majority of the negative side effects have gone away for me... ( cravings, insomnia, etc. ) I am still getting a tightness in my chest, not painful but persistent and annoying. I am wondering if that is because I have not been coughing up any of the crap im sure thats in my lungs since I quit. I have never been a big cougher ,stop smoking now, even when I smoked.... should I take a decongestant to try and help loosen something up ? I can breathe through my nose fine 90% of the time,quit smoking now, but sometimes in the mornings i'll have some blockage ...it usually goes away after 10 minutes. I am just surprised that I haven't coughed once since I quit , does that mean my lungs aren't healing at all? The tightness in my chest I was pretty sure was either congestion or soreness from coughing so much.....I run 5 miles a week and workout with weights 6 days... I noticed I can breathe alittle easier when I run but when I get home and start watching tv I notice my breathing just seems alittle off normal. That's when I mostly notice the chest tightness... I can feel the slight pressure right in my sturnum ...

Mammograms

Ladies,quit smoking now, I have a question for ya, but first, go get checked, yes,stop smoking, get a mammogram.I went in for a mammogram yesterday... I hate to admit it but I haven't gotten one in 9 years. I've gained like 50 pounds since the last one, so I'm bigger (lord, hope the guys aren't reading this.. haha)Anyway, today they called and said I need to come in tomorrow for more pictures... I'm freaked... what does that mean??? Has anyone ever had to go back to get another mammogram after the results were in???Of course, I can't think of nothing else now... argh, I hate freakin out.

My Dear Friends

Well here is another of those sleep and wake up every hour nights. I have to thank alot of people here for getting me this far.Bonnie - we all need to thank you as you are always here day after day and I hope you know how much you are appreciated by everyone.Jeff and Randy - my two favorite guys who are just as devilish as me and who keep us all laughing. Did not see Jeff on the bb yesterday (I think he is PO'D cause I gave Randy a kiss - Better watch it Jeff or I will tell your better half on you. lolJ/Q who is another one on the bb so much giving encouragement. You are truly awesome.TnGramma2 - Always there to push us newbees alongIQuit2 Mary Syl Kateskate Gosh too many to name Love you all. Don't mean to omit anyone but me I am so mushy I would just go on and on. So let me put it this way - WEEZIE LOVES YOU ALL.I hated going cold turkey so much that I have decided to have ham on Thanksgiving lol. So now I look forward to another week and I am going by what you all say - THAT THIS GETS EASIER. THAT IS WHAT KEEPS ME GOING.If it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger - one puff will kill you keeping the quit makes you strong. weezie

Mary and Carla

I promise I won't go photo mad, so this is the last ones for a while.Here you are...the love of my life with Joe!!! Just joking, although I do love my sons' dog as if he were my own. Sean is going away for 4 days at the end of July and I'm all excited that I have been asked to house sit with the dog, Malakai. I'm leaving Joe behind at our place!Now these are rocks! At Caloundra again last summerAnd finally this is me wearing a lei that Joe made one day this last Spring for my friends mother who had just been diagnosed with cancer...to see him sitting on our lounge room floor with these fresh flowers spread all around him, after getting up at 4am to pick them from various frangipani trees in the area, was priceless. The smell was heavenly. He was taught to do this in the village in Fiji as a child,stop smoking now, and the kids used to take these leis to school for visitors. The lady who received this lei kept it by her side until it turned all brown, she was so thrilled,Herbal cigarettes, and it turned out that her husband (deceased) used to pick these for her when they were courting. Her daughter is my boss and we were invited to meet her for afternoon tea party to celebrate her (probably last) birthday.Oh! how I am going to have fun now that I can do this. But unfortunatley I have to stop now and go to the dentist...a place that I fear more than any other, but the ferocious ache in my back tooth cannot be ignored any longer.Maryrose

NASCAR

OK ok,, since i'm not driving this season i will toss in on this....I noticed a Stewart fan a day or two ago.i was at Homested the day Nextel took over the cup from Winston. And i was there year before last when Sprint Joined Nextel.Having hundreds and hundreds of pictures. We have recipes directly from Mr.s Stewart, Tony's mom, she is a crock potter ya know, and he has a line of chili.. We have had lunch with Jimmy Johnson,stop smoking, at Homestead durin his rookie season.I am a Jef gordon fan from back when he raced Sprints.i will drive Sprints one day...here is a photo of Biffle in his Golf cart, i was drivin Jr's cart at the time,quit smoking,, then follows a picture of me in jr's cart... Please don't tell jeff gordon...NASCAR!!!! never heard of it.

Max stress and I never thought about the demon...Pffffffffff

6 above zero outside. Water heater just broke tonight andwe have NO hot water. I was soooooooooooo mad I just put$70 bucks into it 2 days ago as it needed an igniter which isa whole other story.This is water heater was SUPPOSE to be the cats meow.Bought it about 6 years ago and all it did was cost me moremoney to keep it running than it did NEW !! GrrrrrSo today it died...I walked out of the basement and sat ina chair and growled like a big gator...mad and mean.Lyn says whats the matter and I almost took her head off.So after I got the steam out we jumped in the RAV and tookof for dept store. I walked out with an ELECTRIC water heaterso no venting needed and parts right down the road if needed.No more messing with this stupid "POWER VENT CRAP"!!Ok anyway I was driving back and it is COLD man real cold.And I thought wow Monday I have to get up with no hot water.Get down in the basement tear down the old one and somehow move it someplace out of the way. Next go back up amdsome how get that new water heater down the steps andthen I have to wire it because it is 220 volt. Ok we are talking lot's of work here and I will be going up and downthe steps and in and out of the house to the pole barn.This will not be fun...BUT...here is the good part.I not once even thought about smoking and even if I didit would not have been in the equation. Point being that there was a time when this would be a case of smokingmy brains out and talking LOTS of breaks as I felt sorry formyself. But tomorrow I won't because I do not smoke.I am not posting because I am stressed and need help.I am only showing what it is like for some of the new beesin the future. You will get hit from out of now place andstress will come, but you won't even consider smoking.Is that cool or what?...........huh?

Meltdown Saturday

This story is dedicated to Annette this morning.Yo. Double good gravy. Killing one of my good dinner forks in the stuck kitchen drawer wasn't enough yesterday..........apparently.Yesterday,quit smoking, I dropped down in my patch level. I don't remember that being any major problem before. Yea,stop smoking now, you cold turkeys can roll your eyes at me and say big deal! But it was...I HAD A COMPLETE MELTDOWN AT THE GROCERY STORE! I mean I threw me a fit like I was 2 years old. Screaming at everyone around me. Oh my God... I will never go back there again. Those stupid self checkout registers! I broke all 4 of them by absentmindingly using my Farmer Jack card instead of my Kroger card. I kept going from one broken one to the next, flopping down the flowers I wanted to purchase with a big HMPH then proceeding to break that one too. Naturally the gal at the head register was busy. I didn't want to get on her case as she was elderly and I always feel so bad about someone that age having to work like that. But boy......... did I voice my opinion to the other three Kroger workers that happened by... NONE OF THIS CHECKOUTS WORK, DID YOU HEAR ME???? DONE OF THESE REGISTERS WORK.... My date happen to call in the middle of this (I was running late), "Where are you?" I AM HAVING A MELTDOWN IN THIS *UCKING GROCERY STORE!" Nice guy... still wanted me to come over. Gave me a nice hug when I finally got there. Knows I'm quitting smoking.The weird thing, about two hours later I felt this irratable, madding feeling I'd had all day, just slip away.... gone... back like I was.I tell ya, if this is what PMS feel like then I feel horrified for you PMS'ers... or Manic Depressive people. "And you don't believe we're on the Eve of Destruction."

MONICA HAS 2 YEARS QUIT

Monica hasn't been with us for awhile because she has been caring for her mom and real busy. I wanted to do a post for her 2 year anniversary,stop smoking, even though I don't know if she will see it. But I think I would of felt bad if I didn't do it. Monica was such a good example and help to me in keeping my quit. I always looked for that avatar with the typewriter (or computer) It always made me smile.Monica's mom passed away just recently and that is why this is a hard post to put up. Because I feel so bad for her.So this is a celebration of 2 years quit smoking and a sad time,Herbal cigarettes, too. So I want to say "I'm sorry about your mom and my thoughts and prayers are with you, Monica". And Congratulations on your 2 years of freedom.Bonnie

My story (2)

I am 26 male from VA, been smoking since I was 8 with a 4year break in between, now smoke about 2-10 cigs a day depending on how long my day is I just cant seem to kick this addictionseems extremely hard for me, I either work alot and stressout so i reach for a cig or im bored and i reach for a cigMy last good attempt of quitting was about a year ago where i quit for a few months,stop smoking now, but it ended because of a nervous breakdown I had after being up for 2 days working on midterms having a fight with gf and eventually getting pulled over and getting a ticket that night, I just went to 7-11 bought a pack, lit that cig and completley lost itI did read Allen Carr's book but my attempt of quitting after it only lasted for a day, tried to quit numerous times as well and I agree that it is fear, I keep thinking: what happens when I quit? will I go crazy without cigs? will I have withdrawal pans and snap at people? will I just go even more depressed?I seem to get the mental aspect of it fairly well, I can probably list 100 good reasons to quit and 0 opposite reasons, my problem is the actual act and commitment to not smoke anymore...In essence not being able to quit makes me feel weak and helpless, like an old person and really kills my self-esteemI have full confidence that If i can overcome this addictive weakness of mine I can become more confident,quit smoking, sucessful and happier...yet what is stopping me? fear? why cant I just act and commit? Im tired of being weakpondering things drives me nuts, i've been at war with my self constantly thinking how I can overcome this with my philosophical and logical mind and its driving me nuts I just want this war to end already because Im tired of wasting so much effort time and health on this

Meg- Twinlet

Here is my story- imagine telling that child you just needed to smoke 1. Imagine that child in your womb,Herbal cigarettes, coughing,smoking cessation, sputtering and gasping, becuase what you do you share with them.Miscarriage is more common in smoking women than non-smoking women. Imagine thinking you caused that. I live with it. I lost a pregnancy many years ago and I smoked then. Forever I will live with the knowledge that I MIGHT have prevented it and saved my children- but the addict in my couldn't let go of the smoke. You my girl are smarter, stronger, and wiser than I was. For all of us who smoked while pregnant cause we were stupid- People like you are our hope for the future. Hang tough girl- you will get through this.Barb

I think I understand it now.....

The "Oldies" and the "Tuff love" Getting Pissed at the Relapse. More experience "NON-SMOKERS" that could have helped people "relapsers" through their craves if they had only followed the rules....POST A FRIGGIN SOS ALREADY! that is if you relay want to quit.Latley I have witnessed all these "oops I slipped", or the "I confess, I smoked" or just the blatant "I smoked" posts pop up but yet to have seen an S.O.S. from the relapsers, and I get a little upset with it because if they had followed the rules (post an SOS) then someone could and would have helped them.... I guess rules do not apply to some people...."But Homebrewer, I do not have access to the internet"...NOT GOING TO BUY THAT ONE ANY MORE! You can find access to this site.... Look on your Blackberry or your iPhone, or your droid.... You have internet, Laptop computers with Wifi, wifi is every where, Hell even the cars now a days have internet accesss. This whole I do not or did not have access to the internet thing, well THAT DOG JUST AINT GONNA HUNT! sorry! If you do not take your quit as serious as some people do that is fine,stop smoking now, when you are ready to quit we will be here to help, but dambit be willing to play by the rules, be willing to let people help you. Cause them Ciggaretts are not goint to help you, obviously you know that or else you would not have come here in the first palce, Nicotien plays by one rule alone ADDICTION TILL YOU DIE, get it clear, get it sratight,quit smoking now, BUT FRIGGIN GET IT! Stop romancing the dreaded killer like it is some type of knight in shinning armor, cause it is not.One concept, NOT ONE PUFF EVER. It is that friggin simple.I understand stress, and hard times, but if you realy want to keep your quit, PLEASE allow someone to help you. All you need to do is post an SOS! that is it and it is that simple. I hope and pray that each and every one of you keeps your quit. Steph, skip, KatieM, April, and all the others.... I truley think I get it now.... and I am sorry, I belive you will know what I am talking about!KTQCheersDan

i gave up the smokes & got addicted to coffee...

Addicted to Coffee You know you are addicted to coffee if ...You grind your coffee beans in your mouth.You sleep with your eyes open.You have to watch videos in fast-forward.The only time you're standing still is during an earthquake.You can take a picture of yourself from ten feet away without using the timer.You've worn out your third pair of tennis shoes this week.Your eyes stay open when you sneeze.You chew on other people's fingernails.The nurse needs a scientific calculator to take your pulse.You're so jittery that people use your hands to blend their margaritas.You can type sixty words per minute with your feet.You can jump-start your car without cables.You don't sweat, you percolate.You walk twenty miles on your treadmill before you realize it's not plugged in.You forget to unwrap candy bars before eating them.You've built a miniature city out of little plastic stirrers.People get dizzy just watching you.Instant coffee takes too long.You channel surf faster without a remote.You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug.You can outlast the Energizer bunny.You short out motion detectors.You don't even wait for the water to boil anymore.Your nervous twitch registers on the Richter scale.You help your dog chase its tail.You soak your dentures in coffee overnight.Your first-aid kit contains two pints of coffee with an I.V. hookup.You ski uphill.You get a speeding ticket even when you're parked.You answer the door before people knock.You haven't blinked since the last lunar eclipse.Author Unknown

jwg top ten list to stop smoking

10)spend more time looking for things you want to do and less time looking for things you think need to have 9)you nose smells but you don’t8.)only have to go to the gas station when you need gas7)you can watch a movie once and see everything6) you only have to stand out side in nice weather5) now just the outside of your windshield needs to be cleaned4) you don’t have to scrub your hands with bleach for a first date3)you can waist your money on dumb things like food and clothes 2)breathing is second nature not a second job1)live long enough to pay back your children

Is This a Symptom of Quitting Smoking-

Here are two articles written by JoelIs this a symptom of quitting smoking? Every now and then a person will experience a specific symptom and put up a post asking whether or not the symptom is one that is normally experienced by people who have quit smoking and if others here had experienced the same symptom when they had quit. As far as if a specific symptom is one that "can" occur after cessation, we have put together a pretty inclusive string titled Possible Withdrawal Symptoms. Here is a link to that article: http://whyquit.com/whyquit/A_Symptoms.html As far as whether or not another member or numerous members experienced the same symptom, it does not really make a difference if they had or had not. It is like someone writing and saying that he or she is having a tingling sensation in his or her arm and wondering if anyone else experienced the same symptom when they quit. Then a person who had slept on his or her arm one night when quitting smoking and woke up with that particular arm tingling writes back and says that sure enough, he or she had a tingling arm the week he or she had quit. Now the recent quitter feels a sense of relief because he or she has seen that one other person had the same symptom. So the person does nothing. The problem was that the person who wrote the question was not having tingling from having slept on his or her arm, but rather, was experiencing a symptom of a heart attack that he was now ignoring. This action could result in a fatal mistake of not seeking what was immediately needed medical attention. If you have a concern of a symptom that you are experiencing consult your personal doctor. The only medical advice that I can give is that to reduce your risk of a host of illnesses and conditions is to stick to your commitment to never take another puff! Joel Life Goes On After Smoking It is important for all people who quit smoking to recognize that life goes on without smoking. Over time after a person quits smoking there will be changes: medical, psychological,Herbal cigarettes, professional, economic, life roles, relationships, etc. What is important to recognize though is that most of these changes would have occurred whether you had quit smoking or not or even whether or not you ever smoked. As many of my friends are now in their mid-forties and fifties, it is amazing how we share stories of new ailments and new medications being introduced into our lives. Some of these people had quit smoking decades ago, some of them never smoked. None of the ex-smokers bring up a new disorder and say or think to themselves that it must be happening now because they quit smoking ten or twenty years ago. It would be like a person who never smoked who finds out they now have high blood pressure and then thinks to him or herself that it must be because he or she stopped using some product twenty years ago. As we age things happen―it is just the way things go. If a person gets diagnosed with a smoking related ailment like emphysema or lung cancer years or decades after quitting it is likely that their mind is shifted to think about their past smoking. But medical and psychological conditions that are experienced by smokers and non-smokers alike, the concept of smoking or quitting should not be considered a primary focus anymore. Smoking did not cause everything. It causes a whole lot of things though and many things that it does not cause, it makes worse. On the same token, quitting does not cause everything. Quitting is usually accompanied with many repairs, but there are also some adjustments that go on that may need a partnership with your physicians to get worked out. My general rule of advice is whatever happens the first few days of a quit, whether it is physical or psychological reactions, blame it on not smoking. It is probably the cause of most early quit reactions. If it is a symptom to a condition that could be life threatening, such as severe chest pains or signs or symptoms of a stroke―contact your doctor immediately. While it is probably nothing and just a side effect of quitting, in the long shot that it is something else coincidentally happening the week you are quitting, you need to get it checked out. Things happening weeks, months, years or decades after your quits though should not ever be assumed to be a quit smoking reaction. It is life going on without smoking. Some of these things may trigger smoking thoughts―especially if they are similar to conditions you did have in the past when you were a smoker. The situation now is a first time experience with a prior feeling where smoking was integrates thus creating smoking thoughts. But even in this case, the condition is creating a smoking thought, it is not that your smoking memories or your smoking past is creating the condition. Life goes on without smoking. It is likely to go on longer and it is likely that you will be healthier at each and every stage than you would have been if you had continued smoking. Your life will continue to stay better and likely last long longer as long as you always remember to never take another puff! ________________________________ For people who are off for weeks, months, years or decades and who are cranky, nervous, depressed, angry, have sore throats, heart burn, ear aches, backaches, headaches, eye strains, poor vision, hearing problems, broken bones, have stubbed their toes, have financial concerns,quit smoking now, job stresses, or any other extraordinary issues going on in their lives at the moment. Don't blame every feeling, bad or good in your life on the fact that you happened to have quit smoking. Life goes on without smoking and as the closing paragraph in this article states: Life goes on without smoking. It is likely to go on longer and it is likely that you will be healthier at each and every stage than you would have been if you had continued smoking. Your life will continue to stay better and likely last long longer as long as you always remember to never take another puff! Related videos: "Is this a symptom of quitting smoking?" High speed access: http://www.whyquit.com/videos/isthisasymptom_bb.wmv Dial up access: http://www.whyquit.com/videos/isthisasymptom.wmv Common symptoms High speed access: http://www.whyquit.com/videos/commonsymptoms_bb.wmv Dial up access: http://www.whyquit.com/videos/commonsymptoms.wmv

I need to talk to someone, help

OMG - I can't believe the way I'm feeling. We had friends over who smoke,stop smoking, I thought I was okay with that. But they left and now I found a pack they left behind. I'm all alone, and my hands are shaking, my mouth is watering..NO NO NO why now???? I have a year under my belt!! I need to talk to someone... I didn't smoke any, I had to put them in the trash can. But why now??? Does that mean I can't party anymore with people who smoke. I have before, I don't understand this. Actually I feel better typing this out. Never let your guard down!!! The monster,quit smoking, it can be surprising when he comes out and hits you over your head!!!

Just for Today..

Daily MotivatorDecember 16, 2009Now is the dayBefore this day is over, you can make your world a better place.Rather than spending the whole day pursuing comfort and avoiding inconvenience, get up and do something meaningful. Rather than just reacting to the random events that come along, focus on a particular goal and get it done. Instead of continuing to worry about something that needs to be done, just go ahead and get it over with.Use your creativity. Exercise your mind and your body. Whatever you do today, you'll be tired when it is all over. Will you be tired from enduring the same old thing as every other day? Or will you be exhausted after a day of creative effort and accomplishment? Think of how refreshing that would be!Today is already underway,Herbal cigarettes, and it will end all too soon. Decide to fill it with life. Decide to make it great. See for yourself how far you can go,quit smoking, when you make the most of today.

I smoked.

I feel terrible.A friend of mine who I haven't seen in a year or so came to my city. We went out for drinks and then we went to the hookah place we used to go to when he stilled lived here.I didn't even think about it. It was just so natural. I sat there and smoked the hookah and drank and talked like we used to. I feel really terrible about it this morning. I also feel like my nicotine cravings are worse today than they have been in a couple weeks.The good thing is; I do feel terrible. I'm not interested in smoking cigarettes, or hookah or any other nicotine product. Right back on the wagon for me.I feel a bit ashamed,stop smoking, as I felt I was doing very well. And the board has showed me so much support. And I blew it.At least now I know I cannot smoke hookah casually,quit smoking, unless I want to experience cravings forever.I'm sorry to everyone. I feel pretty stupid.

JUST FOR TODAY

This is similar to something i had once printed out and it helped me through a rough patch in my life. thought i'd share.Just for today, I will live through this dayonly,Herbal cigarettes, and not set far-reaching goals to try toovercome all my problems at once.I know I can do something for 24 hours thatwould overwhelm me if I thought I had tokeep it up for a lifetime.Just for today, I will be happy.Abraham Lincoln said, "Most folks areabout as happy as they make up theirminds to be". He was right. I will not dwellon thoughts that depress me. I will chasethem out of my mind and replacethem with happy thoughts.Just for today, I will adjust myself to what is.I will face reality. I will correct those thingsthat I can correct and accept those I cannot.Just for today, I will improve my mind. I willnot be a mental loafer. I will force myselfto read something that requires effort,thought, and concentration.Just for today, I will do something positiveto improve my health. If I'm a smoker, I'llmake an honest effort to quit. If I'm overweight,I'll eat nothing I know to be fattening and onlywalking around the block or using the stairsinstead of the elevator. I'll force myself to exercise.Just for today, I will make a conscious effort tobe agreeable. I will look as good as I can,dress becomingly, speak softly, act courteously,and not interrupt when someone else is talking.Just for today,smoking cessation, I'll try not to improve anybodyexcept myself. We know so much more aboutnutrition and how much exercise and sensibleliving can extend life and make it moreenjoyable; so just for today, I'll take goodcare of my body so I can celebratemany more happy new years.Just for today, I will have a program. I maynot follow it exactly, but I will have it,thereby saving myself from two pests:hurry and indecision.Just for today, I will gather the courageto do what is right and take theresponsibility for my own actions.Just for today I will be unafraid. Especially I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful and to believe that as I give to the world, so the world will give to me.