I just type a really long post and it didn't show up, wonder if it will later.
I feel very different this quit. Thanksgiving day I was worried that I'd have a craving that I wouldn't feel like fighting. Then I found my inspirational song. I don't know if it was the song itself, or the fact that I could sing it really loud without coughing. anyway, after that I haven't had any true cravings. The thought of smoking frequently runs through my head, but I can dismiss it by reminding myself that I don't smoke, and that one was never enough, so why bother.
I'm pretty sure the patch is helping me, but one of the reasons I like it is that my brain is being untrained. The patch delivers nicotine without me taking action, so hopefuly as I step down, it will not increase any cravings - since my subconsious will no longer truly associate nicotine withdrawal with smoking. Not trying to convince anyone that this is the way to go, just why I think it's working for me. My previous 12 day quit was cold turkey, and to be honest I don't remember it being much more difficult physically than this one. This time I'm just more committed and ready.
I keep running into triggers, dropped my son off at a friends house, time for a smoke, finish cooking dinner, time for a smoke , finish eating dinner, time for a smoke , get a phone call, time for a smoke . These have only been thoughts though, not cravings! Earlier today, I had some frustrating moments at work, and I didn't even have the thoughts. Holy cow!!!
I've also realized that the way my life has been and previous attempts have helped me tremendously. I haven't smoked in my house in over 10 years. That has reduced my triggers, and makes this a great time of year to quit. I don't have to go outside whenever the nicodemon calls me. I can still go outside any time I want, but I DON"T HAVE TO :). Previous attempts and failures have thouroughly taught me that one is not enough. That is really drilled into my head.
Done rambling for now!
Molly - Free and Healing for Eleven Days, 8 Hours and 38 Minutes, while extending my life expectancy 18 Hours, by avoiding the use of 227 nicotine delivery devices that would have cost me $90.92.
