coriolis wrote:Southerngale, did you say that you still get cravings, years later?
Don't panic...I said that, but I don't think I should have used the word 'crave' - my mistake. Every once in a while, when things are stressful and my hubby goes outside for a 'smoke break' I think to myself, "I need a smoke break!" but really, I don't ever want to smoke again. If you're a smoker, don't read any further
You will be shocked as to how bad people stink who smoke after you quit. That aroma you once lounged in and enjoyed will become an awful, stale stink. Those clothes that you washed and thought smelled so fresh and clean really will smell fresh and clean. Believe me, it sounds silly now, but you'll know what I mean later. My hubby's clothes, bless his heart, always stink to me because they smell like a cigarette butt. He knows this and does his best to cover it up with cologne...only helps so much. When he comes inside, our little boys sometimes say "puuuey" and they adore him! Anyway, I feel so much better now. Coughing was just a normal part of me before, now if I cough more than once in a day, I must be getting sick.

No more hacking! (yuk)
But most importantly, I am physically healthier. Besides the reasons above, my decision not to smoke ever again is because I want to be around as long as possible for my kids. I've got little ones to raise and they need their Momma. I use the same logic when I'm driving for instance, even without the kids. I drive as though they're with me because I don't want to get in a wreck and leave them without their mom.
Your lungs start healing as soon as you quit smoking. You reduce your chances of getting cancer, emphysema, having a stroke and you just live longer.
No matter how hard it is, don't give up!! You can do it and you will eventually be glad you did. It will be hard but chew lots of gum and stay busy. My dad was very difficult to live with for a while (smoked for over 25 years) but we all lived through it and so did he. He feels much better now and he's healthier. He's very glad he quit years ago....so am I.
It won't be easy and you know that. So, if you start to feel like you're going to cave, do something, anything, to take your mind off of it. Don't give in!! That's why it is so hard to quit and so many people fail. When it gets really really tough, they give in. Just stick it out...it'll be hard for a while and then it will get easier. I promise!
I am here for you if you want to talk. PM me and I'll give you my email address and phone number if you ever need to just talk.
Hang in there buddy...you CAN do it!!!