Mee

Thanks so much Jo. My husband and I have run out of things to watch. I did not know you had penguins either. So cute!

Yes! That is how you keep doing it. It is just a matter of redirecting those thoughts. It only becomes and endless cycle if you go back there. I experienced all those symptoms. I was able to sleep, so I slept as much as I could. Staying busy is the best way to push through. Take a walk and breath that fresh air. I hope you are celebrating your six weeks of freedom. You have got this. Keep that quit going.

NOPE

You go girl! We are right here to travel along with you!

Sounds good to me. You guys are so great at keeping everying organized!

Are you sure that isn't wacky tobaccy? We are going to have some wild parties on the Lido, with all our newbies!

OMG @Doreensfree! Where do you ladies find this stuff. 🤣

Wow, awesome artistry notsmokinjo! Tough choice. 😞 I don't get to vote!

Linda, I think one of the keys to quitting is redirecting those thoughts. When the urge would strike, I would close my eyes and breath deep; picturing the clean air filling my lungs. Another thing I did was truly look at people standing outside smoking. Look at their demeanor, and how sad they look. Think what life would be without that addiction. Learn to focus on the good it will bring you not on the urge!! I loved the people on this forum. I couldn't believe how fun they were and how they made me feel important. Stay close and play some games. YOU CAN DO THIS.

Hi Layla. Smoking does not help your PTSD and actually mostly likely makes it worse. So, you are going to have to "bite the bullet" and just quit smoking. The first month is a little difficult but you can do it. I smoked for 42 years and never thought I could quit. The support here is awesome and they will help guide you through. I promise not only will your health improve but you will become a much stronger person. Stay close to the forum, educate yourself and play some games. You can do this!!!

Nope!

Doing great Steven! Three weeks is awesome. California has sure had it share lately. So sorry for you losses. Stay focused on a life free of nicotine. You can do this!

A little to much info. Congrats for not smoking but you need to get those cahonas in check! Thought you were worrying about a little Warbelian running around (lol).

Nope!

Michelle, those things will be going on whether your a smoker or not. That addict always shows it's head in times of stress. We can pray for the safety of your family and those that live in these areas. Hang in there lady. You are doing so great!

You've got this now Kate! congratulations on six months.

Linda, you are still in the first month. I promise it will get better. The only thing you gain by destroying your quit, is disappointment and knowing that you will have to start again. Just keep redirecting those thoughts and breath deep. You can keep this quit going!

MLMR, I too get those thoughts but I find they tend to come when I am down or frustrated. That little addict in me knows when I have my defences down and am self loathing. Fortunately, I am stronger than these thoughts and I want to enjoy another day of freedom!

So proud of you MLMR. I was right there with you on your quit journey. Your writings were so inspirational and enlightening. It is so hard to believe that two years have passed for both of us. I hope you are enjoying your smoke free life.

Congrats, on getting married and finding a special man to spend your smoke free life with you. You will be so grateful for having quit as you enjoy many years together. Smoking does pay it's toll on the teeth and gums. Many of us have endured lots of oral surgery and loss of teeth. I hope yours goes well and you recover quick.

Linda! You can do this. I smoked for 42 years and quit at the age of 63. I just had my 2 year anniversary. I never thought I had the fortitude to quit. I tried hypnosis, patches, gum, and a smoking cessaction clinic at the Cleveland Clinic and nothing worked. I found the best guidance and support here. I have been following your quit and felt an odd feeling of familiarity. Of course, I have the same name, Linda and I live south of you, in Ohio. That voice telling you that you are already damaged is just the addiction talking. As smokers we are so ashamed because we feel powerless and our self esteem is so low. From the minute you quit, your body will start to repair and heal. I tried to imagine that during my quit journey. I hope you never give up trying. Freedom is just around the corner and it is possible for all smokers. Come on girl! Get back on that train. We are here for you!!!!!

I'm still here. Still living the quarantine life!

Welcome Mick. This is a great place for encouragement and support in quitting smoking. You definitely want to be around for every precious moment with your granddaughter. She will be blessed with all the memories you will make for her. One month smoke free is huge. The first month is the toughest. Keep moving forward and never look back. You can do this!