I love autumn. In Missouri, our trees turn colors that could almost make Vermont jealous. I love the pumpkins, hoodies, the crisp air, the smell of bonfires, the pecan pies, turkey dinners, nights by our fake fire place, spiced cider, the end of our derby season, more knitting... I love everything about it. If I could live in a perpetual state of Fall, I would. 50-70 degree weather is my favorite.
I checked my email this morning and read through the correspondance from becomeanex about revising our triggers/ways of managing them when the seasons change and it made me think about my smoke-free/smoking cycles. This is the time of the year that I always start smoking again (BUT NOT THIS TIME, SISTER). I don't know if it's because I get careless, because I'm so in love with the season, or what, but normally I've slipped up around the beginning of September. I hadn't thought about it until this morning.
So I guess I'm just posting to process some of my coping strategies and to work on positive self-talk as I get into the season. You know, my pre-game strategy, if you will. If you have any fun Fall distractions, I'd love to hear them!! Right now I'm going to stick with the basics: continue drinking lots of water, make sure my (nicotine free) vape is charged before social situations. Being smoke-free is a choice. I do it as a gift to myself; to improve my quality of life and my ability to kick ass. 90% of the time, I don't even think about smoking anymore, and when I do half the time I'm thinking about how much happier I am now that I'm smoke-free. I have the tools to make the right choice this (and every) season.
The autumnal equinox isn't until the 23rd (a joyous early Mabon to those who celebrate!) but I'm ready (and EXCITED) to start my favorite season smoke-free!!!
Peace & love,
Kirstin