BS: No Smoking Update

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 03:41 AM

This thread is now quite large ...... please post to the continuation thread

Continued

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jets
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:50 PM

I smoked a pipe for 55yrs. I smoked more than most people for I was a engine room watch stander at sea and then ashore in a power plant I finaly decided that it was no longer a pleasure but something that was shorting my ability to breath.Something I was compeled to do.As someone said earlier,I decided that I did not want to be a smoker,so I quite. Yes there are times when I need a smoke but I say to myself; I am sick and it ,the need, will go away. It has been three years this summer and I feel much better. The need accures less and less every day. Best of luck to all the quitters. Joe

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: mack/misophist
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:05 PM

I also used Zyban to quit. Trust me, it works. Perhaps not as well for me as for him. That's the breaks. The bad, rotten, really TERRIBLE thing about zyban is that, here at least, it costs us$150 per month. I have very good insurance and it wasn't covered. If you know a cat, or maybe know a cat who knows a cat. TELL THEM. Every one here is in favour of quitting. Why keep one of the best tools out of most peoples reach?

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Noreen
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 08:32 PM

Good on you, Cat! :0)

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: GUEST,vectis minus cookie
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 07:11 PM

Thanks for that thought Ebbie. I'll try to remember that next time I really want a ciggy and know I cam get one off someone.
I started stopping last November and I'm still struggling every time I go near a pint , festival or pub. I will persevere. I keep telling (Kidding?) myself that I am a non-smoker who occasionally lapses. It sounds so wimpish but it is working fairly well so far.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:00 PM

Catsphiddle, you'll do it! Just think, you already have the stuff out of your physical system. What's left is the psychological residue- and that you can handle. What finally caused me to quit was the realization that the fact it would be difficult to quit didn't even enter the equation: I didn't want to be a smoker anymore. (I still wanted to smoke; I just didn't want to be a smoker anymore!)

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 01:43 PM

Refresh!

Well I have decided to quit smoking. I have been smoking for 6 years and I've decided its high time to quit. It has been 7 days since I had a fag and its not going too bad. I don't miss them, apart from after meals and I feel great and it should help my asthma.

I have been told that I am more moody than usual but hopefully that should pass soon.

I haven't been in a pub situation since I stopped so going to the pub and festivals is going to be a real test of my will power!!!

Cat

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 01 May 02 - 05:56 PM

Have faith Bill ..... I know you can do it....... look how far you have come already

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: okthen
Date: 01 May 02 - 03:45 PM

I'm still smoke free, 16 months so far, twice as long as last time and hope this is the last time I give up.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Murrey
Date: 01 May 02 - 12:59 AM

I wish I could give every smoker the great feeling of five years free after smoking for thirty -- there is nothing that would ever make me start again and yes I too am a singer and the range that had become so narrow is now so broad it is unbelievable ( sure tried to convince myself that it didn't affect my singing but that was a big lie ) --I guess you must truly want to --whatever the reason you must want to stop . To everyone out there who still smokes -please think about the people who love you and do everything you can to quit. I can tell you -you will struggle and it will be soooo hard BUT I promise you will never regret your decision ! Murrey

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 30 Apr 02 - 08:06 AM

I know what you mean, Nutty. I figure I've regained at least 1 1/2 tones at either end of my range. Not to mention the resonance that has returned. It's definitely been worth it for me.

jeffp

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 29 Apr 02 - 06:34 PM

I think the thing that will keep me from smoking again is that I have found my voice.........the range and the power that I lost so many years ago are now back and the breathing is no longer a problem
I just love singing again

It's taken me a long time to get to this point though, so I sympathise with those of you who are still fighting the fags ..... keep at it - you'll win in the end

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Deda
Date: 29 Apr 02 - 03:34 PM

I quit in Feb of 1987, just four months before my mother died of emphysema, several years after my father died of a heart attack. She was never able to quit, not even after she was hooked up to oxygen. (She once almost blew herself up by lighting up while wearing the plastic tubes; she had burn marks above her upper lip.) She was on oxygen and in & out of hospitals and using a "nebulizer" for the last 7-8 years of her life. I had been a smoker for 18 years by the time I quit, usually about a pack a day. I had acupuncture for the first few days, from a guy who specialized in acupuncture to help wean people from their addictions. It helped me through the worst few days, and I was so amazed and impressed that I refused to backslide after that.

I knew a few things before I quit: That I was well and truly addicted and that if I ever had one cigarette, I was caving in completely; that cigarettes had often been my best friend (I spent one entire acupuncture session with tears rolling down my cheeks); there was something else, but I've forgotten it just now. Anyway I wish everyone all the luck in the world with this, it isn't easy. But it is worth it, for everyone who loves you. Loving smokers and having to bury them too young is just a rotten thing to go through. And it's nice to regain a sense of smell, and decent lungpower.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 29 Apr 02 - 01:46 PM

We are trying to eat healthier, but I insist on enjoying what I eat! Thanks for the suggestions, though!

jeffp

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Mr Red
Date: 29 Apr 02 - 09:56 AM

jeffp
burn the toast instead - it removes a few more calories from the bread!
FWIW my mother's favourite diet was "if it tastes good - spit it out!"

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 29 Apr 02 - 08:59 AM

Just celebrated a smoke-free year almost 2 weeks ago. Now if I can just get rid of the 25 pounds I traded my cigarettes for.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Celtic Soul
Date: 28 Apr 02 - 10:29 PM

Congratulations to anyone who manages to kick that particular monkey off their backs. I have learned since my Mother died of a heart attack that smoking is the leading cause of heart disease in women. My Mom could not quit, the addiction was just too bad for her. I understand it to be *very* hard, but those of you who have managed it, you are not only doing yourselves a huge favour, but your loved ones as well. Good on ye!!

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: ddw
Date: 28 Apr 02 - 05:32 PM

Glad to see everybody still hanging on. I smoked for 47 years and haven't had one since July 25/01 -- nine months last Tuesday. I still want one every once in a while, but I don't think you could pay me enough to have it.

david

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: kendall
Date: 28 Apr 02 - 08:49 AM

5 1/2 years. Didn't quit soon enough, battling throat cancer. I'm told I will be cured, but, it has raised hell with my performing, and my social life.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Chip2447
Date: 28 Apr 02 - 03:33 AM

Sadly to say, I have fallen completely off the tobacco free wagon, I'm smoking about 3 or 4 lights cigs a day. gonna give it another go soon. Chip2447

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Miken
Date: 27 Apr 02 - 11:41 PM

Amergin, Nutty, Mrs.C----My greatest respect and congratulations for hanging in there. I remember how difficult it was for me. What helped: Deep breaths when the craving came on, increased exercise, lots of water as already mentioned, and keeping in mind all the things I hated about smoking. Lost both my parents to emphysema during the last three years; they were heavy smokers all their lives, and it's sad that when I remember their final months of life I see them with green plastic oxygen tubing in their noses. After I quit I gradually discovered I had been allergic to tobacco smoke for years, still am, and will go to great lengths to avoid it. Smoking in public bldgs.in Wa. State is prohibited - even within 30 feet of the entrances, but I've learned to hold my breath leaving the building I work in due to smokers right outside the door.Arrrgh! ( Glad to get that off my chest!) But the best to all of you. Over time you'll reap the rewards for your hard work, and I'll be thinking of you. This is serious stuff. Thirty-two years away from a two packs and a half a day------Mike (Hmmm, there's a song in there somewhere)

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 27 Apr 02 - 06:15 AM

Well done Amergin and Nutty.

I have managed almost 12 months ( gave up at the end of the Yorkshire Mudcat gathering 2001) without a fag, have put a stone on!

Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 27 Apr 02 - 01:36 AM

Congratulations Amergin ..... thanks for refreshing the thread

Almost 15 months for me ........feeling really good

I put on the expected 2 stones but have just lost half of that and am now tackling the rest.
Definitely no going back ........ I've become a shop-aholic but, now, I can afford to be.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Amergin
Date: 26 Apr 02 - 09:35 PM

boy...just realised it has been 13 months without a fag....

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: okthen
Date: 19 Jul 01 - 01:27 PM

Yep! 6 months and holding, still can't drink much tho' (no real loss there)if I ever did start again I'd become an alcoholic ashtray!

Still get those "I'll just......." flash thoughts but a little less often.A friend of mine (ex 60 a day) says he still gets a craving and he gave up 10 years ago!

There was a bit on the news about the Gov. banning a few additives (like cadmium) and I couldn't help thinking why the (expletive) did they put them in in the first place, but apparently there are 200 additives and if so why aren't they listed on the box? What's more if any "additives" should turn out to be carcinogenic, could the companies be held liable for assault?

Thanks for reawakening this thread, I needed a good rant.

The way I feel right now, Archer should be grateful I was not sentencing him.

cheers

bill

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 19 Jul 01 - 09:46 AM

Still tobacco-free 3 1/2 months now. Most of my triggers are no longer driving me crazy. There are still times, though. I've got a five-hour drive coming up Saturday. That will be a real test. Hang in there, everybody. We can do this.

jeffp

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 19 Jul 01 - 04:42 AM

I've just hit the 7 months mark and am still battling on.

I've put on about 2 stone but seem to have levelled out at that - this has happened before when I have given up and has been a prime reason for starting again (but not this time)

Some days are harder than others, but that is really caused by spending too much time on my own - when I'm in company (even with someone who smokes)I don't think about smoking at all.

Hardest time is sitting watching TV

Biggest Moan - why can't they make sugar free chewing gum in decent flavours - I'm absolutely sick of "mint" :¬)

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Chip2447
Date: 19 Jul 01 - 12:44 AM

Still tobacco free, for the most part, It's being around smokers that tries to do me in....

Chip2447

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Amergin
Date: 18 Jul 01 - 09:46 PM

well, four months for me...still not smoking...how is everyone else?

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Ebbie
Date: 01 Jun 01 - 02:19 AM

A song there, for sure, nutty. I didn't realize that having a drink had that kind of effect, although I do realize that some are more abundantly endowed than others... LOL

Eb

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: DougR
Date: 01 Jun 01 - 01:56 AM

Well, nutty, as an ex-smoker (20 years), I might be able to offer you some advice on relaxation. Have you thought about sex? I find it very relaxing (though for about five years I still craved a cigarette after). :.)

Seriously, though, I salute all of you who are giving up tobacco. It is a very difficult habit to kick, but the rewards that will follow, are worth it, believe me. DougR

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 31 May 01 - 05:41 AM

I'm really so proud of everyone and have forgiven myself for my weakness ( IT WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN ) - HONEST
I think (like Bill) it was the drinking that caused tit - I haven't been doing much of that either. So take it a day at a time - THERE MUST BE A SONG THERE!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: okthen
Date: 31 May 01 - 02:31 AM

So far so good, since mid January anyway, yes there are still times I want "something" but resist (butt resist?).I had a valiant effort to drink beer a couple of weeks ago, it still tastes so strong as to be offputing,but I persevered and after 7/8 pints was quite wobbly(here enter thread on 40 degrees of being drunk)all in all I didn't enjoy it at all and I think I'll stick to my "schorle" (half wine half lemonade).I think I associate drinking beer with ciggies and when one went the other had to go too, never mind.

I find I'm drinking more water now, and enjoying it. I am slowly converting my wife and daughter to the idea of quitting, but I really do know how hard headed nicotine addicts can be.

Well done everybody,here's wishing you strength and perseverance.

cheers

bill

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Ebbie
Date: 31 May 01 - 01:40 AM

I suspect that one of the things a person misses may be actually the slight increase in heart rate that a cigarette gives you. One of the things I did when I really WANTED A CIGARETTE- :~( -was to exercise briskly. I remember doing jumping jacks one difficult moment! And water- I drank lots and lots of water.

Eb

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Chip2447
Date: 30 May 01 - 09:43 PM

Since my recent derailment, I've managed to get back on track. Now, if I can just remain sans tobacco.
Thanks all....

Chip2447

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 30 May 01 - 03:04 PM

Had a moment of weakness when all around me were smoking and I cadged a cigarette -- sneaked it back to the camper to smoke before I went to bed ( I'd had a few drinks as well) I ONLY MANAGED A COUPLE OF PUFFS ..... IT WAS DISGUSTING
The rest of the night I kept being woken up by the horrible smell that lingered ..... I've learnt my lesson and doubt if I'll be trying it again
I just wish there was something that could give me the feeling of relaxation and well being that I got from sitting down with a cigarette .... that's what I miss most - but it's early days yet - well almost 6 months

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Little Hawk
Date: 30 May 01 - 02:06 PM

A small aside here...Orillia City Council is considering a city-wide ban on cigarette smoking inside restaurants, bars, and other places of business. This would be a relief to me on a personal basis...but it would certainly be hard on some places, like Hill's Restaurant. The place is a Mecca for smokers, and the food is very good. I would, of course, prefer to eat there without the smoke, but I figure that most of the clients of Hill's would not agree with me on that.

I'm not quite sure where I stand on this one...

- LH

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 30 May 01 - 02:02 PM

8 weeks since I quit, and 6 weeks since I cheated. Been off the Zyban for a week and a half now. Still got this restless thing going on, though. My left leg is bouncing as I type this. Guess it's better than tapping pencils, but not much. Food tastes better, my sense of smell has improved amazingly. This spring I smelled the lilac in the neighborhood for the first time. Gotta start monitoring the BP more closely, in case I have to adjust meds.

jeffp

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Amergin
Date: 30 May 01 - 01:54 PM

Well, I just realised it has been two months for me...though sometimes it seems a bit longer...and other times not nearly that long....How is everyone else?

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Bugsy
Date: 15 May 01 - 02:21 AM

Well Mrs Bugsy is still off the weed! I'm very proud of her, she seems to be coping with it a lot better than she has in the past. Thank God for Zyban.

Cheers

Bugsy

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Chip2447
Date: 15 May 01 - 01:29 AM

Thanks all. I owe it to family, friends and myself to give them up... Currently giving it another of the win one for the chipper college tries...

chip2447

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Ebbie
Date: 14 May 01 - 12:27 PM

I know what you mean about that dead space between completing one thing and starting another. One of the hardest things for me was not having anything to 'reward' myself with.

On the other hand, just imagine what it must be like needing a smoke- and you're on a plane or a bus or in a restaurant or at work and it's howling outdoors- and you can't. I'm sure I'd be furious every day. Sure glad I no longer have to worry about it!

Ebbie

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: jeffp
Date: 14 May 01 - 08:58 AM

Still not smoking either. One of the weirdest things about it is trying to fill that 5 minute period when you're waiting for the water to boil or the stove to heat or the kids to get out of the bathroom or whatever. I tell my wife "I'm going to sit down and not smoke a cigarette." Seems to work.

Hang in there fellow quitters!

jeffp

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: nutty
Date: 13 May 01 - 05:19 PM

Hi everybody - I've been away at Holmfirth Folk Festival this weekend so haven't seen the posts till now.

I'm still holding out although had a strange experience this morning ................ I was in my camper overnight -- slept very well and woke to a wonderful sunny morning. Made Coffee and ate breakfast and thought " What do I do now?" No sitting around chatting and smoking ---- so I went for a walk --- strange experience though

Spent the weekend with Treaties who is also doing well. Anyway, thanks for asking Jande and Chip DON'T GIVE UP TRYING TO GIVE UP .
It will happen for you eventually

Bill and Nathan - I'm filled with admiration and so proud of you guys -- you give me the resolution to get through the hard times

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Big Tim
Date: 13 May 01 - 10:19 AM

Having "just one" works for some. That's the way I managed to stop. I don't think the addiction is like alcohol when, I am told, "just one" can be fatal. I stopped 23 years ago and am no longer a nicotine addict. I abhor the sight and smell of tobacco and won't allow ANYONE to smoke in my house or car. I could have "just one" but I'd probably be sick and have to persevere and learn to inhale all over again. I do however feel sorry for my hero Bob Dylan who can't have a cigarette in any public place in California, tho I wholeheartedly support the ban.

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: okthen
Date: 13 May 01 - 07:55 AM

Still not puffing, nor have I since January, tho' I still get urges for "just one" I'm told I always will but they get less and less frequent,is this what you who've not smoked for years rather than months have found?

Just got my first "reward" for not smoking, (medium priced digital camera)

hope jeffp and everyone else is doin' ok

cheers

bill

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Amergin
Date: 12 May 01 - 08:28 PM

I know what you mean, Chip, I loved the smell and the taste of my hand rolled fags....

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Ebbie
Date: 12 May 01 - 07:07 PM

Chip, you haven't failed- and even that small break from smoking has undoubtedly helped you. This isn't a contest- this is something you are doing for yourself, and for those who love you.

Eb

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Chip2447
Date: 12 May 01 - 02:10 PM

Thanx Amergin. I just have to realize that it's not really the nicotine that I'm addicted to, it had been over five months with just an occassional smoke, but the fact that I like the smell and the taste of a ciggy....

Subject: RE: BS: No Smoking Update
From: Amergin
Date: 12 May 01 - 12:25 AM

Well, it's been a month and a half for me....

Chip,I hope you're not beating yourself up too much about falling....I am glad you're giving it another shot! Keep with it! Or else we'll have to send Nutty over to your place with a cricket bat!