Quitting smokeless: A journal

[MizzouRah]

Yep, let's see.. I've worn out any welcome I've ever had at Quitsmokeless.org, thrown away cans and then dug through the trash can like a homeless person searching for a nibblet to eat.

I've even started a few quit dynasties here at FOFC.

I need to be held accoutable or any chance I have of succeeding will be unsuccessful.

So, I "officially" quit on 03/24/06 - the first day quit group July 2006 was born over at QS.org... (that's the date I would reach 100 days). Now, I'm not going to show my asshat self yet once again over there, but I am going to do it here so....

03/24 - Day 1 - here we go again

Today is Day 2 - weekends are tough, but I have gum and no alcohol is present in the house. I'm also going to stop the beer drinking for a bit as that's my crutch to start back up again.

I pray I can beat this nasty habit and I only have faith that I will do so.

[MizzouRah]

Day 2

Mouth is exremely sore and my gums hurt. Like smoking, but you can see the damage first hand.

[Eaglesfan27]

Good luck, Todd. I'll be pulling for you to be very successful in quitting.

[ice4277]

Good luck man. I really hope you are able to do this!

[MizzouRah]

I won't let you guys down this time, Marines honor. I do appreciate the support. :)

[Cap Ologist]

Good luck, hang in there. Hope you're able to kick the habit.

[tanglewood]

Smoking = EVIL!!!!

Good luck. :) If you really want to quit you can, and will. Just stay strong.

[GoldenEagle]

Todd, best of luck. I hope you can break it.

[tarcone]

Good Luck with this. I quit on august 20, 2005 after about 20 years of chewing. its hard but remember why you are doing it and take it one day at a time. If you need any help PM me or heck i live 1hr away you can call me if need be

[MizzouRah]

Thanks again all of you.

Tarcone, yes I might need your help and it's nice to have someone close who has been through it and been successful.

Thanks and Congratulations!!

[JonInMiddleGA]

If you want to quit then I wish you complete success.

[SirFozzie]

be successful in quitting, or we will all mock you completely ;)

[MizzouRah]

Day 3 gentlemen!

It's amazing how much better my gums already feel. Beautiful day, BBQ at sister-in-laws house - no alcohol. :)

Edit: scratch that, I'm going out to play 9 this afternoon :) :) :)

[CraigSca]

Good luck, Todd - rooting for you!

[MizzouRah]

Day 4

Yesterday was rough, but here we are.

[Eaglesfan27]

Keep up the good work, Todd.

[MizzouRah]

Keep up the good work, Todd.

Thanks!!

[tarcone]

It takes 30 days for every year of this habit to overcome
not trying to hamper you but just wanted you to know that it is a long slow process. Keep in mind why you quit when you have that urge (i.e. my reason is my daughters and my health). My urges are less frequent but i still get them. i then try and focus on something else.
4 days down.....great job

[MizzouRah]

It takes 30 days for every year of this habit to overcome
not trying to hamper you but just wanted you to know that it is a long slow process. Keep in mind why you quit when you have that urge (i.e. my reason is my daughters and my health). My urges are less frequent but i still get them. i then try and focus on something else.
4 days down.....great job

Thanks. My longest quit was like 62 days and I still had that "urge".

Day 5 today and I feel better this morning than last night. :)

[Eaglesfan27]

One day at a time, Todd. We are rooting for you. :)

[GreenMonster]

Your thread is making me want to quit.. I believe I will try.. Good Luck..

[AnalBumCover]

I've succeeded. I believe you can too!

[MizzouRah]

GM - you can do it!!

ABC - good for you!!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Hey, Mizzourah. You can do it man. Coach Anderson's going to turn the b-ball program around and you're going to get rid of the nasty habit. Win-win situation. :)

[FrogMan]

I've wanted to post in here for the last few days so here I am: you can do it! :)

Good luck!

FM

[stevew]

Tobacco is a bitch to quit. I haven't smoked in nearly 2 years, but I still get very bad cravings from time to time. Mine seem to last for a few days at a time, and then go away. I know its not the same thing as smokeless, however. I quit cold-turkey, one thing i would suggest, and it helped me, was to try to remove yourself from some of the normal "tobacco" situations, places where you used to chew, routines, etc. Anyways, good luck.

[Emiliano]

Go Todd! Hang on man, I'm sure you can do it.

[MizzouRah]

Hey, Mizzourah. You can do it man. Coach Anderson's going to turn the b-ball program around and you're going to get rid of the nasty habit. Win-win situation. :)

Amen!! :)

[MizzouRah]

I really appreciate all the support. Thanks.

Day 6 and it sucks. :)

It's baseball season, a warm day, and a lipper is commonplace for me. :(

[Swaggs]

Good luck man.

Keep busy, so you don't think about it too much.

[MizzouRah]

Good luck man.

Keep busy, so you don't think about it too much.

Been eating sweetarts like crazy. :)

[MizzouRah]

Day 7 baby!

[Blade6119]

Kepp it up buddy, im rooting for ya!!!

[Eaglesfan27]

Keep up the good work, Todd. It's eventually going to get easier. Keep taking it one day at a time.

[Swaggs]

Hopefully, in a few more months, the worst we will see is this:

Quitting sweetarts: A journal

[Blade6119]

i hope you dont pull a diaz on this one... ;)

[MizzouRah]

:)

Day 8 and 78 degrees outside soon...

[JeeberD]

Way to go, Todd! Keep it going!

[MizzouRah]

Way to go, Todd! Keep it going!

Thanks kind sir!

Heading to the Lake of the Ozarks around noon today - this time chew free!!

[MizzouRah]

Day 9

[tarcone]

great job
its easy to quit:D

[tanglewood]

Day 9

Feel any better? You should be starting to notice some diferences by now, like the dishusting smell of your old clothes.

[MizzouRah]

Day 11 - no it's smokeLESS, so no smells. Well, except the peach smell when I had a dip in.

The big test is upon me, baseball season.

[Eaglesfan27]

Remain strong, Todd.

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

Great job..I am following as I am personaly on 28 hrs smoke free. :D

I am kinda cheating as I am using the patch but it is still the toughest thing I have ever done.

Stay strong brother as your journal really inspired me to try again and this is the longest I have gone with out a smoke in 7 years ( i quit fr a month).

[AlexB]

Great job..I am following as I am personaly on 28 hrs smoke free. :D

I am kinda cheating as I am using the patch but it is still the toughest thing I have ever done.

Stay strong brother as your journal really inspired me to try again and this is the longest I have gone with out a smoke in 7 years ( i quit fr a month).

Ditto - after a few abortive attempts over the last year, got the patches out again and am giving it a proper go this time - about the same sort of time, almost to the hour as BAH!

Good luck BAH & Mizz

[MizzouRah]

Great job..I am following as I am personaly on 28 hrs smoke free. :D

I am kinda cheating as I am using the patch but it is still the toughest thing I have ever done.

Stay strong brother as your journal really inspired me to try again and this is the longest I have gone with out a smoke in 7 years ( i quit fr a month).

I thought about getting some nicorete gum. :)

Glad you're both giving it a go.

[MizzouRah]

Day 12

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

:) I am at 51 hrs smoke free. I even had lunch today with one of my "smoking buddys" and sat in the smoking section. It was tough but I never caved in

Jari - How you doing bud?

MizzouRah - Keep it up!!

[AlexB]

I suppose I'm quite lucky as most of my friends are non-smokers, and I work in an office where I am (or should say was - PMA: Positive Mental Attitude!) the only smoker.

So far no major probs with the patches - I go through this regularly: last year was probably 2/3 smoking, 1/3 patches. Hopefully this time it will stick - same for both of you guys as well.

PS - 'PMA' & 'Oh no! My sandwiches!' (last word pronounced 'sammidges')
Prizes for anyone who knows the source :)

[lungs]

Just a question on this topic..

I know quiting tobacco is a lot harder for some than it is others. Has anybody ever heard of any genetic factors involved? All three male members of use tobacco. I've smoked and dipped since I was 15 (23 now). But all of us seem to have the ability to just quit cold turkey for weeks at a time with no withdrawal symptoms.

Dipping seems to be primarily an outdoor activity for me. I work on a farm so I dip when I'm working. I also dip when I play softball. But when I go home at night I have no urge to put one in. Pretty much the same with smoking. If I'm not drinking or driving a long distance I have no urge for a smoke.

Maybe it's more a function of environmental factors that bring on a weak addiction.

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

Lungs - I am no doctor, just play one on the Internet, but unlike you I come from a long line of alcoholics and very addictive personalities in my family. It is very hard for any of us to quit any addiction. One of my brothers and I are quitting smoking together and it is as hard for him as me. I quit drinking alcohol about 6 years ago and it was the hardest thing I have ever done (next to quitting smoking).

I believe in the "genetic" thing as I see destructive patterns in certain people and typically if you look at those individuals’ families (like my own) there is pattern as well. I luckily quit drinking before I got to bad and it was mainly because I saw my father, my grandfather, many uncles, one of my brothers all destroy or lose touch with their lives. I was once told by a close friend of the family who I went to for help and he told me that it is ok to be an alcoholic in our family because we are from "Ireland and its normal, I was born and raised in the old country it is just who we are".

Anyway, I know their is a whole lot out their about genetics + addiction which backs.

By the way, I had a cigarette this morning...:mad

[MizzouRah]

Don't worry about it, get back on that horse!!

Day 13

[AlexB]

Don't worry about it, get back on that horse!!

Day 13

Congrats - keep going Mizz & cowboy up BAH!

Just about to knock off work now, which is the hardest time of a non-pub day for me... Spend a day concentrating on my job, then when I switch off I want to relax, and I really want a smoke :(

But if I can be strong for about an hour it will pass...

[Neon_Chaos]

Good luck.

I want to quit smoking too. :(

[MizzouRah]

Day 14.. 2 weeks and I'm doing ok.

[Eaglesfan27]

You are doing great. Keep it up, Todd.

[MizzouRah]

Day 15 - tough weekend ahead.

[AlexB]

Suck it up MizzouRah - time to be a man. For some reason tonight has gone well - been down the pub, watching my team play on the big screen, had a few beers, and no baccy.

I've finally cottoned on that we're quitting differnt things, but stay strong buddy

[MizzouRah]

Suck it up MizzouRah - time to be a man. For some reason tonight has gone well - been down the pub, watching my team play on the big screen, had a few beers, and no baccy.

I've finally cottoned on that we're quitting differnt things, but stay strong buddy

Another short lived quit. One dip in 16 days. :(

I'm thinking about investing in a quit aid such as nicorette gum. I can't seem to quit for longer than a month or so cold turkey.

[Eaglesfan27]

Get right back on that horse, Todd. There is no shame in using nicorette gum or other aid. Just realize that you will need to wean yourself off of that too according to the instructions.

[AlexB]

Another short lived quit. One dip in 16 days. :(

I'm thinking about investing in a quit aid such as nicorette gum. I can't seem to quit for longer than a month or so cold turkey.

For the last 16 months I've probably smoked for a total of 9 months, used patches for 5, and neither for about 2 (I'm 33 now, smoked on & off for about 12-13 of the last 15 years - mostly on as you can see)

Whether I'm right on this or not I'm not sure, but the way I see it it's better to use a stop tobacco aid than the real thing healthwise, and (for me at least with the price of smokes over here) cheaper as well.

It is true that you need the right mind set to start with, and then the tricky bits come when you drop down a level and eventually stop the aids altogether. But even if it doesn't work 100%, you've still had x number of weeks when you haven't been taking in the other chemicals within tobacco.

Of course I could be totally wrong on this as well :) . It's obviously not the macho way of quitting, but if you do want to, but find it tough (as I do), quitting aids do seem to help, but are not a 'cure'.

Give it another go - if you can kick it it's good for you, your family & your wallet: you've inspired me to try again - it's only right you should have the benefits as well.

For the record I'm on day 9 now, patch assisted, and so far so good.

[JeeberD]

Get back on the wagon, Todd. It's worth it!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Another short lived quit. One dip in 16 days. :(

I'm thinking about investing in a quit aid such as nicorette gum. I can't seem to quit for longer than a month or so cold turkey.


Someone help me out here. I've never been addicted to anything other than video games. Why the need to do the smokeless tobacco, cigarettes, etc.? I guess I just don't get it. I assume that you do know that use of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco will most likely reduce your life expectancy by 15-20 years. I don't understand this type of self destructive behavior.

Think of what you'll miss by dying 15-20 years earlier............

[FrogMan]

Someone help me out here. I've never been addicted to anything other than video games. Why the need to do the smokeless tobacco, cigarettes, etc.? I guess I just don't get it. I assume that you do know that use of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco will most likely reduce your life expectancy by 15-20 years. I don't understand this type of self destructive behavior.

Think of what you'll miss by dying 15-20 years earlier............

my only guess is that non-smokers/non-dippers (invented word here ;)) like you and me can't understand the cravings that come with being addicted to nicotine and/or whatever there is in the chewing tobacco. Again, only guessing but I'd have to think there's a "I have to have one, RIGHT NOW!" feeling that comes once you've been addicted for a long time.

Now, the question you might want to ask people in general is why start in the first place??? That one baffles me. I've never smoked, not even one cig in my life so I can't answer that one.

As for you Todd, I'd want to echo what our resident doctor said and urge you to get back on that horse. Keep trying until you succeed and if you really want to do it, you'll get it done. We're still 100% behind you.

FM

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

As for you Todd, I'd want to echo what our resident doctor said and urge you to get back on that horse. Keep trying until you succeed and if you really want to do it, you'll get it done. We're still 100% behind you.

FM

Absolutely. I still want Todd to kick this brutal habit (MU fans unite!!!!). I don't question his conviction with my previous comments. I just asked because it's obviously hard for someone who doesn't have any addictions to understand why this occurs.

[Eaglesfan27]

Nicotine is very highly addictive. It causes spikes in dopamine (along with some other neurotransmitters) levels which are associated with pleasure. It has been postulated by some scientists that nicotine is even more addictive than Cocaine.

It is hard for Todd or anyone to quit Nicotine, but as you said, it cuts down your life expectancy significantly, and I know Todd loves his family. I'm sure that will be good motivation to get back on the horse and start a new longer streak.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Nicotine is very highly addictive. It causes spikes in dopamine (along with some other neurotransmitters) levels which are associated with pleasure. It has been postulated by some scientists that nicotine is even more addictive than Cocaine.

It is hard for Todd or anyone to quit Nicotine, but as you said, it cuts down your life expectancy significantly, and I know Todd loves his family. I'm sure that will be good motivation to get back on the horse and start a new longer streak.

Eagles, I know you work in the medical field. I have smoked an occasion cigar (3-4 times a year) and I have drinks socially, but nothing on a regular basis (i.e. I could go without a drink for a long period of time and not feel any different). Why is it that I can do that type of thing while others become addicted and allow these types of things to cause problems in their life from a health perspective?

[Eaglesfan27]

Eagles, I know you work in the medical field. I have smoked an occasion cigar (3-4 times a year) and I have drinks socially, but nothing on a regular basis (i.e. I could go without a drink for a long period of time and not feel any different). Why is it that I can do that type of thing while others become addicted and allow these types of things to cause problems in their life from a health perspective?

Genetics. I really believe that some people are more genetically susceptible to becoming addicts. Addiction runs in my family, so I limit myself to 2 nights of drinking/month maximum. It's not all genetics of course, but I do believe that is a key component. Of course, there are many environmental factors that play a role as well.

[MizzouRah]

Thanks for all the support.. I am back on the horse and it's easy during the week.

No doubt smokeless is not harmless and definitly can cause all types of oral cancers, that I'm aware of. The military is what got me started chewing this crap and although a can now lasts a month or so compared to one can every other day... I need to never put that shit in my mouth again.

I've done it time and time again.. and I think I need some help via aids like nicorette or something along those lines.

[Eaglesfan27]

Thanks for all the support.. I am back on the horse and it's easy during the week.

No doubt smokeless is not harmless and definitly can cause all types of oral cancers, that I'm aware of. The military is what got me started chewing this crap and although a can now lasts a month or so compared to one can every other day... I need to never put that shit in my mouth again.

I've done it time and time again.. and I think I need some help via aids like nicorette or something along those lines.

Good job getting back on the horse quickly, Todd. Besides Nicorette gum, Zyban, which is the same medicine as Wellbutrin, has been clinically proven to help cut down the desire for cigarettes and Nicotine. It's a relative safe method that might help you kick this habit if you feel you need further help besides just the nicorette gum. The major risk of Wellbutrin is seizures if you overdose on it. While your goal should be to quit completely, even these partially successful attempts are periods of time where you are taking less toxins into your body and therefore prolonging your life. Don't view them as failures, but partial successes which are stepping stones to complete success in the near future.

Good luck. Lots of people on here are pulling for you (and the rest of the guys who mentioned quitting in this thread.)

[tarcone]

The tobacco industry targets children who are easily seduced into thinking smoking/dipping is cool/glamorous/thein-thing. When a kid starts, it is almost impossible to quit due to the highly addictive nature of the product. rarely do you see a 22 year old person just decide to smoke or dip becuase they know of the risks.
It is the Youngsters the industry is after and get. If you get a 12 yr old to smoke you have a customer for life (50 years?).

[MizzouRah]

Yep, and all the new "flavors" damn them and that peach flavor.

Thanks EF for your help and support. I've dramatically reduced my intake of nicotine, just need to realize cold turkey is darn near impossible for me and a piece of n gum would be nice to have around for those "hard" times.

[AlexB]

Oh man. In the middle of a huge desire for a cigarette right now. Can't concentrate, relax, or get it out of my head.

I'm sure I won't have one, but this is not fun. :(

[MizzouRah]

Oh man. In the middle of a huge desire for a cigarette right now. Can't concentrate, relax, or get it out of my head.

I'm sure I won't have one, but this is not fun. :(

You CAN do it!!

[PSUColonel]

Hey Mizz,

You have inspired me to do the same. I drink way too much, and when I do, I use dip frequently. I really need to stop both. I know you are on day 12, but I' going to make today day 3 for me, since I haven't had either since Sunday. My problems always seem to arise around weekends..hmmm.

[MizzouRah]

Hey Mizz,

You have inspired me to do the same. I drink way too much, and when I do, I use dip frequently. I really need to stop both. I know you are on day 12, but I' going to make today day 3 for me, since I haven't had either since Sunday. My problems always seem to arise around weekends..hmmm.

Yep, alcohol is a DEFINITE killer for caving.

Good for you PSU!!

[AlexB]

Yesterday wsa the first tough day I've had (day 11). Got through it, but as I had a half a box of the big muthas left over from my previous attempt, I bought another full one and was planning to go down a notch on the patches today after a box and a half.

Went to the chemist and got another of the step 1 patches after yesterday! Next week will now be the drop down.

I think it was linked to a lack of sleep, working in the office on my own and doing the one part of my job that I hate the most: I find it boring, unrewarding, uninspiring and generally a drag. Unfortunately I'm in the same situation today :D

[ice4277]

Just wanted to say, keep it up guys!

[PSUColonel]

It's day 4 for me now, and so far so good. The true test for me will be once I have about 10 days under my belt. It is always at this point (especially when I get exercising) that the cravings for both get much stronger. I don't know why. This time though, I don't want to give in.

[MizzouRah]

I'm on day 3 or 4 I think yet once again...

[Eaglesfan27]

Keep it up, guys.

[FrogMan]

I'm on day 3 or 4 I think yet once again...

remember, every day without a dip is one less day with that crap in your body so nothing's lost... Keep it up! :)

FM

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

remember, every day without a dip is one less day with that crap in your body so nothing's lost... Keep it up! :)

FM

Agreed. The current situation is still WAY better than what Mizzourah was doing to his body on a regular basis even with his small stumble a few days ago.

[MizzouRah]

I'm not going to let this thread die.. took a dip today while cleaning the garage.. yep, found a can hidden and couldn't resist.

Tomorrow is Easter and I would love nothing more than for my final quit to start. I've had two dips in the past 3 weeks, but it still doesn't count towards quitting.

I've checked all my hidding places and by tonight all tobacco will be gone. I'm going to post a lot as I think writing my thoughts will help.

Feel free to join in!

[FrogMan]

whatever helps, do it Todd. We're still here to support you, and hop, back on the horse! :)

FM

[tarcone]

here is an idea and it helped me when i quit. i was extremely hungover and riding in a car from iowa to home. was sick as a dog and couldnt dip. now i reflect back on that feeling of illness and relate that to chewing. just a thought

[SFL Cat]

good stuff tarcone. My dad smoked cigars when I was a kid. When I was six, I remember finding half a cigar in an ash tray down in the basement. It was stone cold...I picked it up and took a loooong drag on it. Started coughing my lungs up...I thought I was going to die. I've never been tempted to try any kind of tobacco product since. While I've always like the smell of cigar and pipe smoke, cigarette smoke makes me gag.

Anyway, keep it up Mizzouh...I'm pulling for you.

[Eaglesfan27]

Good luck, Todd. I hope you quit for the final time starting tomorrow. We continue to pull for you.

[MizzouRah]

Thanks again guys.. Day 1 is today!!

Have a great Easter!!!

[AlexB]

Yesterday wsa the first tough day I've had (day 11). Got through it, but as I had a half a box of the big muthas left over from my previous attempt, I bought another full one and was planning to go down a notch on the patches today after a box and a half.

Went to the chemist and got another of the step 1 patches after yesterday! Next week will now be the drop down.

I think it was linked to a lack of sleep, working in the office on my own and doing the one part of my job that I hate the most: I find it boring, unrewarding, uninspiring and generally a drag. Unfortunately I'm in the same situation today :D

Bizarrely, on Friday I just decided after a hot bath not to put a patch on at all. Now Sunday night, and two and a half days of no smoking and no patches either - completely clean. So over a fortnight no smoke, and a couple of days of no nicotine. So far, so good.

[ice4277]

I have a question about trying to quit smoking/smokeless/anything, really. I've never been in this situation so I don't have any experience. Wouldn't it be better to say "I can still do this, but only once in a while" instead of trying to totally quit but keep going back to it?

I'm not saying I don't think you guys can't quit altogether, its more of a general question for this type of thing.

[MizzouRah]

Actually no ice.. once in awhile leads to whenever I want and back full blown. Quitting it for good, although takes some gut wrenching and gall, is the only way to go, imo.

I've tried the once in awhile method and it makes me look foward to getting home to have my "one a day" chew.

It's time for this... long overdue and I've had it. I've stuck my neck out there this time and I plan to go through with it. :)

Good for you JRS!!

[PSUColonel]

Well, I fell off the wagon. The bad news, I drank and dipped. The good news?...I only had 4 drinks, and 2 dips over the weekend. This may be considered moderate use for some, but compared to what I am used to doing, it is almost nothing...nonetheless, I am not happy with what I've done. I know I will have no trouble over the next five days..I'm going to need to start finding things to do on weekends. After 17 years pf partying almost every weekend, I'm not sure where to start. I'm a big golfer, but drinking and dipping always kind of surround it.

[Eaglesfan27]

Actually no ice.. once in awhile leads to whenever I want and back full blown. Quitting it for good, although takes some gut wrenching and gall, is the only way to go, imo.

I've tried the once in awhile method and it makes me look foward to getting home to have my "one a day" chew.

It's time for this... long overdue and I've had it. I've stuck my neck out there this time and I plan to go through with it. :)

Good for you JRS!!

Good call, Todd. Conversely, some people see 1 slip-up as a reason to say they failed and they give up trying to quit and just use as much as they want. Good luck staying on the wagon.

[Izulde]

I started smoking occasionally when I was 18 and have done it right up until now. It's not something I do very often and I go for months at a time without having one.

Oddly enough, I found that the best way for me to quit smoking tobacco cigarettes entirely was to switch to cloves. Those have their own problems of course, but they taste better and feel like they have less crap in them than tobacco, but I'm not entirely certain on that.

Anyway, good luck Todd and the rest. I have faith that you can do it if you want to! :)

[MizzouRah]

Day 2 - feeling great today and I'll say again it's amazing what 1 simple day of no chewing tobacco will do as far as how nice my mouth feels

[AlexB]

:(

[AlexB]

That was partly because I've just been for a leak forgetting I hadn't washed my hands after chopping birds eye chili's, but mainly because I've had 3 cigarettes tonight - guess I wasn;t ready for no patches after all.

Was OK over the weekend at my folks, but today was bad. But destroyed the remaining 7 smokes in the pack, and put a middle level patch back on (which is the step down I was going to make last week before I got ahead of myself and went cold turkey).

So back to a only a few hours again, and a burning sensation where there shouldn;t be one :(

[MizzouRah]

That's ok JRS... get back on the wagon! You can do it!!

[MizzouRah]

Day 4!!!!!

[Neon_Chaos]

I find it easier to actually tackle it day by day.

I can't quit smoking for a year... but I can do it today. And I think that should be our mindset if we want to smoke. Just take it day by day.

Same goes with drinking.

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

I fell off the wagon early last week. But have got back on the wagon , with the patch, and now and almost 48 hrs...

Jari - I did the same thing. Was doing good and didnt think I needed help with the patch. Next thing you know I had chain smoked 3 while I was outside working in the yard. Damn I love those little bastards .

[MizzouRah]

Day 5!! Yes!!

[AlexB]

Back on the wagon since those on Monday - yesterday felt a little like a smoke, so had an alternative plan: went on the cross trainer for half an hour. Did the trick this time!

[MizzouRah]

Nice JRS!

Day 6 for me!!

[MizzouRah]

Day 7 - A week!

[Eaglesfan27]

Congrats, Todd. Keep up the good work this weekend :)

[MizzouRah]

Thanks EF!

Idle time stinks though... I need to keep busy. :)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Day 7 - A week!

So, did everyone make it through the weekend?

[MizzouRah]

Yep, Day 9!

Although Sunday was unreal as far as craves went.

[albionmoonlight]

Keep it up, guys.

[AlexB]

So, did everyone make it through the weekend?

Yep - so far so good (again ;) )

[MizzouRah]

Day 10

[ice4277]

Day 10

:cool:

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Day 10

Nice work, Rah. Think of how proud your family would be if you could boot the habit.

[MizzouRah]

Yeah, Day 11 and I'm getting that itch. :)

Have to keep my mind busy.

[AlexB]

Yeah, Day 11 and I'm getting that itch. :)

Have to keep my mind busy.

Keep it going Mizz - you're a couple of days up on me - don't let me overtake you ;)

[Blade6119]

This dynasty is losing my interest..need to throw in a plot twist...like an overdose on meth...that would be a nice suprise ;)

Keep it going buddy, im rooting for ya!

[Swaggs]

Haven't checked the dynasty board for awhile, but I am glad to see you are still at it. Keep it up. :)

[AlexB]

This dynasty is losing my interest..need to throw in a plot twist...like an overdose on meth...that would be a nice suprise ;)

Keep it going buddy, im rooting for ya!

I'll bet a few people are clicking on here just waiting for the people to have a chew/smoke - otherwise it would be a little boring - every post in effect being: 'Still not had any tobacco' :)

[MizzouRah]

D - 12 baby!

JRS is doing good!!

I bet people are smoking or chewing while reading this thread. :)

[FrogMan]

I'll bet a few people are clicking on here just waiting for the people to have a chew/smoke - otherwise it would be a little boring - every post in effect being: 'Still not had any tobacco' :)

but everyone of these posts could be followed by a post of mine (and others) in effect bein: 'good going, keep it up!!!" ;)

It's always implied but I'll say it out loud today: "Good going guys! keep it up!!!" :)

And I mean it.

FM

[Eaglesfan27]

but everyone of these posts could be followed by a post of mine (and others) in effect bein: 'good going, keep it up!!!" ;)

It's always implied but I'll say it out loud today: "Good going guys! keep it up!!!" :)

And I mean it.

FM

Me too. I keep clicking on this thread to hear about your success. Keep it up guys :)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

There was a person I knew who eventually died at 35 years of age from the after-effects of dipping smokeless tobacco once a day. It was a brutal death where they ended up amputating part of his jaw before he finally died. It's a brutal picture to paint, but I'm rooting for these guys hoping because they can still avoid these problems if they just quit.

[JeeberD]

I'm rooting for you guys as well! Heck, your dedication to this has helped me resist temptation in my "The Damn Wedding is Nearly Here!" diet/exercise regimen. :)

[MizzouRah]

There was a person I knew who eventually died at 35 years of age from the after-effects of dipping smokeless tobacco once a day. It was a brutal death where they ended up amputating part of his jaw before he finally died. It's a brutal picture to paint, but I'm rooting for these guys hoping because they can still avoid these problems if they just quit.

You can say that about people who smoke as well... but I appreciate the picture. All tobacco is bad, which is why we all need to quit.

[AlexB]

Just to add a bit of light humour to the thread, whenever I try and stop smoking, I'm reminded of an Alexei Sayle section on one of his shows about people crowing on about quitting smoking, and how annoying he finds it.

He asked the question why do people think that it's OK to brag about stopping doing something that was just plain stupid in the first place? You don't hear people saying 'I haven't stuck my dick in the food blender for over a week now' :D

And on that note, day 11 (again) - 3 cigarettes in a month ;) (all within an hour on Easter Monday)

[FrogMan]

Just to add a bit of light humour to the thread, whenever I try and stop smoking, I'm reminded of an Alexei Sayle section on one of his shows about people crowing on about quitting smoking, and how annoying he finds it.

He asked the question why do people think that it's OK to brag about stopping doing something that was just plain stupid in the first place? You don't hear people saying 'I haven't stuck my dick in the food blender for over a week now' :D


I for one, as a never smoker, found that pretty hilarious :D

Thanks for the laugh.

Still, keep it going guys!!!

FM

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

You can say that about people who smoke as well... but I appreciate the picture. All tobacco is bad, which is why we all need to quit.

Absolutely. I'm sure most have seen what a smoker's lung looks like compared to a normal lung.

[FrogMan]

Absolutely. I'm sure most have seen what a smoker's lung looks like compared to a normal lung.

sure, they put pictures of those on packs of cigarettes up here :)

FM

[MizzouRah]

Just to add a bit of light humour to the thread, whenever I try and stop smoking, I'm reminded of an Alexei Sayle section on one of his shows about people crowing on about quitting smoking, and how annoying he finds it.

He asked the question why do people think that it's OK to brag about stopping doing something that was just plain stupid in the first place? You don't hear people saying 'I haven't stuck my dick in the food blender for over a week now' :D

And on that note, day 11 (again) - 3 cigarettes in a month ;) (all within an hour on Easter Monday)

:)

Good stuff!!

13 Days!!

[MizzouRah]

14 days boyeeeee

[MizzouRah]

How's everyone doing?

Day 15 on this rainy weekend.

[tarcone]

woo hoo
way to go guys ---one day at a time

[AlexB]

How's everyone doing?

Day 15 on this rainy weekend.

Still going OK - keep it up all

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Outstanding, Rah! I must admit that I always log into this thread on Mondays with a feeling of apprehension because the stumbles usually occur on the weekends. Good to see that you're going strong over two weeks now. Excellent.

[MizzouRah]

Day 16 - and thanks!!

My inspiration quit site is closing, sad.. sad news. :(

http://www.quitsmokeless.org/

[MizzouRah]

Day 17

[Eaglesfan27]

That is sad that your inspiration site is closing, but I can post some links to some nasty effects of tobacco if needed. Keep up the good work, Todd and everyone else who is quitting.

[MizzouRah]

Don't need the pics. :)

Day 18

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Don't need the pics. :)

Day 18

Congrats. Keep up the excellent work. Glad to see my daily visit was a good one today. :)

[AlexB]

Nice work Todd - the brevity of the posts suggests you're finding it a bit easier? Over the last week or so I've barely thought about cigarettes (apart from when people ask me how the quitting is going or I visit this thread :) ) - plan to go down to the lowest patch at the weekend...

On a side note the cross trainer has become a regular event now over the last three weeks (3x a week): I used to play a lot of sport, but the last ten years have done next to nothing. While I am a long way away from being fighting fit, today was good on the machine: despite not feeling over energetic when I started, I found the programme I have been using went remarkably easy, I did more and was far less tired at the end of it than the previous times... Nice to see some short-term benefits from this as well as the minimising of the long-term risks.

Keep it up all !

[MizzouRah]

Actually it's getting harder as I have co-workers who talk to me at work with their lips sticking out. They know I've quit, but most of them are not close friends so I don't blame them for chewing.

Keep it going JRS!!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Actually it's getting harder as I have co-workers who talk to me at work with their lips sticking out. They know I've quit, but most of them are not close friends so I don't blame them for chewing.

Keep it going JRS!!

Oh, crap. This doesn't sound good. Just tell yourself those people got slugged in the face by their wife for dipping and now have a permanently fat lip. Visualizing those guys with an amputated jaw isn't a bad alternative either.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I did more and was far less tired at the end of it than the previous times... Nice to see some short-term benefits from this as well as the minimising of the long-term risks.

You should see this effect grow exponentially over the next few weeks. It will get a lot easier to do a lot of things.

[MizzouRah]

Yeah.. Day 19... sucks today!

[AlexB]

Yeah.. Day 19... sucks today!

Had a rough half hour earlier myself: don't give in Todd!

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

Jari - are you still using the patch?

Good job all!

I after a little bender am getting back on the wagon today.

[MizzouRah]

Day 20 and "I'm feelin it".

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

If you're "feelin' it", that means you're getting a lot closer to cleansing the system. Don't give up. Find alternatives to keep you busy.

[AlexB]

Jari - are you still using the patch?


Yeah, the last time I stopped for any notable time, I followed roughly the schedule they recommended. I plan to drop to the third and lowest level this weekend, and then after another week or ten days, stop using patches as well...

After I did have some Easter Monday when I went proper cold turkey, I figure I'd best follow the regime again ;)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The lack of posts over the last 3 days is making me nervous. Weekend sobriety check-in? Did we make it?

[AlexB]

Weekend was fine - today's a bastard though. :(

Very nearly stopped at the store at lunch time: well actually I did stop at the store but bought a Diet Coke instead.

[MizzouRah]

D-23 and I almost stopped this weekend, well I went to get gas and decided to see if they had my brand.. they did and I really wanted to get a can. Oh I hate this! :)

[Swaggs]

You guys should try rewarding yourself by putting the money you would have spent into a jar and then using the savings to get a new game or go to ballgame or out to a movie (or whatever else you enjoy doing in your spare time).

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

D-23 and I almost stopped this weekend, well I went to get gas and decided to see if they had my brand.. they did and I really wanted to get a can. Oh I hate this! :)

Good for you! Stay the course, man! I'm going to have to start throwing some Mizzou bait out there for you to entice you to keep going. Rumor has it that I have basketball season tickets at center court and that my wife very rarely uses the other ticket for the games. But that's just a rumor.........

[MizzouRah]

Good for you! Stay the course, man! I'm going to have to start throwing some Mizzou bait out there for you to entice you to keep going. Rumor has it that I have basketball season tickets at center court and that my wife very rarely uses the other ticket for the games. But that's just a rumor.........

You're giving me too much incentive!! I can't handle it... :) :p :D

[Neuqua]

Rumor has it that I have basketball season tickets at center court and that my wife very rarely uses the other ticket for the games. But that's just a rumor.........

That's an incentive?

:confused:

;)

[AlexB]

OK... Today sucks as well. But I've just made myself feel slightly better about it via the good old internet - no not like that: I'm at work :)

The last two days, and generally when I have 'needed' a cigarette in the past, my arms ache like hell - for the past 36 hours my forearms have just been aching pretty much non-stop. Not fun at all. As a result I am not concentrating that well, and am a little bit impatient (I wouldn't say irritable yet, just impatient ;) )

But I have read that this aching/numbness is actually a good sign, a sign that my circulation is improving. So despite the constant ache, I feel better about it.

But I guess this is the disadvantage of patches as opposed to cold turkey. The initial enthusiasm and desire to give up has naturally faded, and the symptoms come as you decrease the dosage, well after the initial determination when you would be best able to counter the withdrawal symptoms.

The bad news - this is happening when I have dropped down to stage 3 of 3 on the patches - I still have a week or two on this level before using nothing at all, when I assume I will go through this again :(

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

That's an incentive?

:confused:

;)

Hater. We'll see you in December. :)

[JeeberD]

Excellent work, guys! Glad to see that both of you are still going strong... :)

[MizzouRah]

D-24 boys and girls!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Your mouth has to be feeling a TON better than it has in the past. I've seen how much that stuff tears up your gums. Congrats on another day completed.

[AlexB]

OK - I've thought fuck it: If I'm going to feel this level of tobacco withdrawal using the patch before I'm supposed to stop altogether, it's not worth it....



































So I've taken the drastic step of not using anyhting: I don;t feel particularly great, but if I'm going to feel like this, it may as well be for completely getting rid of the nicotine rather than just most of it.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

OK - I've thought fuck it: If I'm going to feel this level of tobacco withdrawal using the patch before I'm supposed to stop altogether, it's not worth it....

So I've taken the drastic step of not using anyhting: I don;t feel particularly great, but if I'm going to feel like this, it may as well be for completely getting rid of the nicotine rather than just most of it.

Well, this should add some drama to the thread. :) Good luck to you.

[MizzouRah]

JRS - Way to go!!

I almost lost it last night and it's becoming a better idea to put a fatty in by the day. I'm tired of work, friends, co-workers, internet forums, just about everything.

D 26 has me pissed.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

JRS - Way to go!!

I almost lost it last night and it's becoming a better idea to put a fatty in by the day. I'm tired of work, friends, co-workers, internet forums, just about everything.

D 26 has me pissed.

JRS is cold turkey and Mizzourah is having bad thoughts........

May 11th. A day that will live in imfamy.

[AlexB]

Ok, I've found a good way to stop thinking about cigarettes - to snap something in your knee: the only thing that bothers me now is my knee, despite the clinic giving it the 'if it still hurts in a week come back'.

Fortunately I've also found something that helps the knee pain, so later I'll be off to post in the Ping: Drunk Guy thread :D

[JeeberD]

I hope you guys had a good weekend!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I hope you guys had a good weekend!

Yep, I'm checking in too hoping to hear good news.

[AlexB]

Yeah, still haven't had any cigarettes.

Can't say I'm enjoying the fact that I've not have any cigarettes though to be perfectly honest. Given up nicotine, and replaced it with increased caffeine and alcohol! Not really sure that's what's supposed to happen.

[MizzouRah]

I slipped this weekend. :( I've quit drinking and had one chew from an old can while cleaning the garage. At least it's gone.

Day 1 - Shit!

[JeeberD]

Just think of it as having dipped just once out of the past 30 or so days. Stay strong and stay away from those old cans! ;) :)

[MizzouRah]

Just think of it as having dipped just once out of the past 30 or so days. Stay strong and stay away from those old cans! ;) :)

Thanks Jeebs! It's been a long day and it's nice to read some encouragement. :)

[AlexB]

As Jeeber says, consider it once in 30 days - this once is a minor setback, not a reason to have any more. Stay strong Todd.

FWIW I'm beginning to find it a little easier with the no patches now, yesterday was a bit better, today a little more so. I've now got three dates I'm working off:
44 days since began to stop
29 days since my last cigarette (the only time I've smoked in the 44 days was 3 on Easter Monday)
Day 6 without either fags or patches

Really it's day 29, probably really only day 6, but I prefer one day in 44 ;)

[JeeberD]

Thanks Jeebs! It's been a long day and it's nice to read some encouragement. :)


Hey, I'm here for my friends (even if they're icky Cards fans)...

[MizzouRah]

:)

Good for you JRS!

I'm back in the saddle again, Day 2

[AlexB]

OK - maybe that was just a good day :) Today's been pretty tough again...

How you doing Todd?

[MizzouRah]

Day 3 - good day today!! Nice outside!!

[MizzouRah]

Day 4 and the fog is once again lifting.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Day 4 and the fog is once again lifting.

Yeah, but you've got to work your way back up before I consider parting with any MU b-ball tickets. How could you?!?!?!?!?!? :)

[stevew]

Good luck guys, and keep trying. Roughly 2 full years without smokes for me as of today, and I still get the occasional urge.

[AlexB]

Good luck guys, and keep trying. Roughly 2 full years without smokes for me as of today, and I still get the occasional urge.

Congrats on the anniversary, but you're still getting urges - that's not cheering me up...

[Eaglesfan27]

I've missed the last few days, but way to get right back on the horse, Todd. Like Jeeber said, think of all of the healthy days you've had and that you are going to have. Keep up the good work, guys.

[st.cronin]

I quit smoking a long time ago. I didn't find it nearly so difficult as most people, but I do think it might have been the best decision I ever made.

[AlexB]

Todd,

How's it going? Still clean? Hope so - stay strong.

FWIW for some reason this week has been really tough for me - there's bee 2-3 occasions where I've thought I'd just go and get 10 to chill out this time, start afresh the next day. Haven't succumbed as yet, but it would be nice for it to get easier instead of seemingly harder. Strange.

[MizzouRah]

Shit... unreal weekend.

Day 1 today and I really feel like an idiot. I don't care if I shoot myself I'm going to stay at home until I feel like I can go out and not cave.

[MizzouRah]

Day 2 here we go yet once again. How are you doing JRS?

[AlexB]

Yeah, this week has actually been a lot better - I read something or other about the withdrawal symptoms being the equivalent of a dying monster begging to be fed, so maybe the end of last week were it's dying throes? Hope so - the last few days I've not had the continual urge for a cigarette while at work, which was the main problem. So all good on the non-smoking front :) You can do it as well, mate.

[MizzouRah]

Great news!

I know if I stay away from the triggers.. all will be fine, but alas.. can I stay away from beer? :P

[JeeberD]

If I can stay away from beer (I've been avoiding it for my diet), so can you. Stay strong, Todd!

[MizzouRah]

If I can stay away from beer (I've been avoiding it for my diet), so can you. Stay strong, Todd!

Ok Jeebs... if you don't drink one to celebrate the signing of Clemens, I guess I can hold off. :D

[MizzouRah]

Day 3 - feeling fine these first days

[Swaggs]

Keep with it. You are mostly smokeless now, considering you have only done it a few times in the past couple of months.

[MizzouRah]

Day 4, thanks Swaggs!!

[MizzouRah]

Smack! I was back at it again and JRS sent me a PM saying how good everything was going and although it was another cave for me, I decided to get back on the horse.

Today was Day 1 and I appreciate the support by JRS and everyone else.


Thanks!

[MizzouRah]

Day 2 - have to run up to Springfield, Mo today to do a call (being on call is such fun... NOT!)

I have gum galore with me. :)

[MizzouRah]

Long trip.. I'm beat. Day 3 though!!

[JeeberD]

Keep it up! :)

[AlexB]

Yep - keep it going Todd

[MizzouRah]

Day 5!

Thanks!!!!

[AlexB]

Day 6? Day 7? Come on, it's tough but can be done.

[AlexB]

Bizarrely, I'm in the midst of my second rough day in a row - after a few weeks of not even thinking about cigarettes. Wasn't prepared for this, but fortunately I appreciate one or two quick-fix ciagrettes will likely begin the road to full time smoking again

[JeeberD]

Keep it up, fellas!

[JeeberD]

It's been a while...how ya kids doing?

[AlexB]

Yeah, I'm still doing OK - very rarely think about cigarettes now: mostly just when I go to bed and think 'I didn't think of smoking at all today!' So all good.

[MizzouRah]

I'm on Day 9 today.. back at it once again. :)

[Lonnie]

Just wanted to add that I'm on day 4 of my life without Copenhagen. I'd like to thank Todd for the inspiration even though it's been a tough road for him and I assume it will be with me as well. I didn't want to post on the first three days, but now that I'm on day 4 I feel that I am really going through with it.

I am cheating a bit since I picked up some patches and they help kill the urges I used to get when trying to quit. Luckily an Alberstons near me was closing and they had the patches 50% off. They aren't too cheap, but I will save more by not buying snuff than I spent on the patches.

So good luck to everyone on this quest, I will be doing periodic updates as well.

[MizzouRah]

Just wanted to add that I'm on day 4 of my life without Copenhagen. I'd like to thank Todd for the inspiration even though it's been a tough road for him and I assume it will be with me as well. I didn't want to post on the first three days, but now that I'm on day 4 I feel that I am really going through with it.

I am cheating a bit since I picked up some patches and they help kill the urges I used to get when trying to quit. Luckily an Alberstons near me was closing and they had the patches 50% off. They aren't too cheap, but I will save more by not buying snuff than I spent on the patches.

So good luck to everyone on this quest, I will be doing periodic updates as well.

Go here Lonnie and join the community!!

I'm MizzouRah over there as well.

http://www.quitsmokeless.org/

Oh.. and good luck!

[Eaglesfan27]

I don't think patches are cheating. They are an important device for many to aid in stopping more harmful use of tobacco. Good luck to you all.

[JeeberD]

Good job, fellas. And I'm glad to see you on the wagon, Lonnie!

[Lonnie]

Well I haven't been updating you guys, but today makes one month. I have my last stage two patch tommorrow. I'm going to try to skip stage one, as I think I have it licked. Sorry I didn't sign up on quitsmokeless.org Todd. I felt it was better for me just to not think about it at all even though I'm sure the support over there is great. More to come later...

[MizzouRah]

No problem, today is day 13 for me. Good job Lonnie!!!

[AlexB]

The last couple of days have been rougher than for a while. Still going strong after four and a half months, but Saturday night was in a really smoky, close club on a major night out.

Didn;t feel tempted on the night out, but yesterday and today I've had that aching back in my forearms and been very twitchy/antsy - wondering if it's coincidence or an effect of passive smoking - certainly haven't been in as smoky a place since I quit.

It's like quitting again tbh - I didn't sign up for this!

Good luck Todd: keep going, and the same for everyone else quitting

[MizzouRah]

I have caved.

Everything is going crazy here at work with layoffs and what not, so I had a pinch a few days ago. I'm off of it again though.

Good for you JRS!!!!

[Lonnie]

50 days going strong. I still get the occasional urge and feel like I need it but by the time I get into a position to buy a can I talk myself out of it. I'm lucky there is no one at work that dips. So I can't just get dip here or there, I have to make the full commitment to buy a can. At $5-$6 a can it's easy to say no.

[MizzouRah]

50 days going strong. I still get the occasional urge and feel like I need it but by the time I get into a position to buy a can I talk myself out of it. I'm lucky there is no one at work that dips. So I can't just get dip here or there, I have to make the full commitment to buy a can. At $5-$6 a can it's easy to say no.

Good for you Lonnie!!!!! 50 days is damn impressive!!!!!!