Chantix Blog and Review

Still not smoking!

2013-10-31T22:42:00.001-05:00

I am a non smoker! I am sooo happy to be one, and to be able to say it! I haven't checked in on my blog since my last post back in March! Basically, it's because I don't have much more to say about how Chantix worked for me, and I will be forever grateful I requested it from my doctor.

I do have to admit that a few weeks ago, I was tempted. You see, hubby still smokes and sitting beside him at an outdoor bar (an extremely rare activity for us) was very tempting. He didn't let me smoke any of his cigarette though and the craving passed very quickly. I can't believe I haven't smoked in over 2 1/2 years. That is intoxicating to me.

My life keeps chugging along and getting better and better with a fabulous man at my side. There have been stressful moments with family matters, but I resolve the issues and move on. What else can a person do, really?

At this time in my life, I can't see myself going back to smoking. I've done without it so long, I know I don't need it. I try to eat right and exercise to control my diabetes. Many times I do not succeed, but I feel resolved today, and I know I can get back with it. Today has been a very good day so far as my blood sugar goes, and I'm not hungry, so Yay!

I always say, I'll update again soon, but I really don't have much to say. I live a very normal settled life for the most part. My niece is getting married next month, so we are looking forward to that. I won't be smoking at the reception, so I'm pleased about that.

I hope everyone had a nice Halloween and has a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas. Such a busy and fun time. Enjoy every moment on this beautiful earth!

Two year anniversary today!

2013-03-09T09:24:00.000-06:00

I have been smober for 2 whole years now! I am eating right, exercising, not smoking, and feeling great! I don't miss smoking. Sometimes when things get stressful, I have a small craving, but I squelch it, and it's no big deal.
I know a lot of people have tried Chantix and had bad side effects, but it worked for me. I am not endorsing it, but rather, letting you know my experiences using it. I don't post as often. In fact, I post infrequently, but there's really not that much to report.
I'm wondering if I will have strong cravings at the 3 year mark. I've read that really strong cravings come at 3 days and 3 months, so I will let you know what I experience.
I guess my replacement for cigarettes has been the computer. I like keeping my hands busy, so I play a few Facebook games and other computer games. I think being on the computer more often is better than being outside smoking.
Anyway, I have a fairly busy day planned today. I am having lunch with my brother and have some errands to run. I like keeping busy, but I enjoy my downtime, too.
In closing, if I can quit, anybody can. Be strong and stay strong! You can do it!

2012-09-04T00:47:00.000-05:00

Hope everybody had a Happy Labor Day! I did. I spent time with my husband and a friend. Just hanging out for the most part, but it was fun. I'm still not smoking, and I am still working out at the gym. I'm still eating too much, so my weight hasn't gone down, but I am building muscle, so that's good. I am also keeping better control of my diabetes.

Things are going well. I have everything I need and most of what I want. I would like to take a long trip with my husband but will have to wait on that as I don't want to leave my Mom for too long. She is being taken care of in assisted living and has 24 hour sitters, but she needs me to run errands for her and feels more secure with me around.

I have been reading more about starting a garden, and have hubby fairly convinced we need to start a home garden. We tried beans at the beginning of the summer, but they didn't work out. I think they were not watered enough. I've been reading a bit about container gardening and may try that during Fall and Winter.

Enjoying being a non smoker and I credit God given will power and Chantix. Hope you stay smober!

Here's what I made for our Labor Day lunch. A grilled filet, steamed asparagus and a salad. Very good.

Update on diabetes and cholesterol

2012-07-25T20:28:00.001-05:00

Sorry I haven't updated my results like I promised to in my last post over a month ago. I am so lame! But, I am not a smoker!!!! Yay for me, and thank you Chantix!

Doctor's office did call me and let me know my numbers are down from last time, but still too high. It's not a good report, and I'm a bad girl eating things I shouldn't.

I did have a talk with hubby about our food issues. He doesn't eat what I cook sometimes, and he would eat steak every night if we could afford that. Or sandwiches. LOL I'm sorry. I just can't deal with that kind of diet. I need veggies and fruit. Weird thing is that his numbers are just fine despite eating a lot of crap sometimes. It's just crazy. Makes me crazy. OK, so I've been crazy for a while....

I'm trying to watch what I eat and exercise more. I am getting some more muscles, so that's good I guess. The gym is such a respite. Love being in the "no judgement zone." Says so right on the door and on big posters inside. I feel so great after a workout, and so does Bill, so we are now gym people. I never dreamed I'd be one, but look at me now, and I'll be 50 in less than 6 months.

I guess some of us reach a point in our lives where we absolutely have to change for our health and well being, not to mention simple peace of mind. My first move was quitting smoking, then eating right and exercise with my Wii. Diet and exercise went by the wayside for a while, but I'm trying to be better now. Exercise I'm not having a problem with, but the food, I am. I am a foodie, and love tastes and textures. I like to try new things, and it's not like I can just stop eating completely like I quit smoking completely.

Anyway, I'm admitting it, so I will make more of an effort with my food intake. Wish me luck! Good luck to everyone who is taking the journey to being a non smoker. You can do it! You have all the power within you!

Joined a gym!

2012-06-14T21:21:00.003-05:00

A couple of months ago, I convinced hubby to join a gym, and we have been very good about going at least 3 times a week. We sort of push each other, and it's fun to have a workout buddy. I can actually run in short bursts now. Me...yes, me...former smoker galore...running! It feels totally awesome to be able to control my breathing, but I must admit my knees are hurting.

I'm still not smoking thanks to will power and Chantix, but Bill (hubby) is still smoking. I know the decision to quit is completely his own, and I try not to be a nag. I don't even have any cravings.

I haven't been checking in here as much because I've been busy with my smoke free life. I have been taking care of family and working out with hubby. Unfortunately, I haven't adjusted my diet correctly, so I haven't lost any weight. I am gaining muscles though, so that's a good thing. I'll be better. I promise. I'm saying that, but I had a late breakfast at Waffle House today. I was so bad, I dare not even admit what I ate. Oh, and yesterday, I had....never mind.

I just went to the doc yesterday to have my cholesterol and A1C blood sugar tested. My levels were really high in February, so I'm hoping this time they'll be in the normal range. I'll post again to let you know. I really need to get back to recording food and exercise on My Fitness Pal. I even have the app on my phone, but I'm losing discipline with it.

I should know better about my diet. I know how to get in shape and lose weight. I just have to have the willpower. Maybe I should change my blog name to something about diet and exercise. Nah.

Signing off now, but will check in again to let you know about my cholesterol and blood sugar. I should know tomorrow or Monday. Keeping my fingers crossed for myself and all of you who are trying to quit smoking. Get smober! Stay smober!

One year smoke free today!!! So happy!!!

2012-03-09T07:57:00.000-06:00

That's right, I have stayed smoke free for a whole year now. I did it! I freaking did it!

I haven't posted since mid November, but I got busy with the holidays, and then selling our house. We closed on it 2 days ago, and we are so relieved. Now, hubby and I are moving on to the next phase of our life together. We are going to travel a bit and just enjoy each other.

He's still a smoke factory, but not around me. He doesn't smoke in the car or house. Always outside. He's very considerate of me. I am really blessed. He makes the bed every day and he moved us into our new house practically on his own. He's an amazing husband!

I will be helping my daughter look for a new apartment today. That should be fun. I remember doing that with my Mom.

I don't have the urge to smoke anymore and consider myself a non smoker. My lungs are still damaged and I don't have much endurance. The doctor said I have baby lungs, but they'll get better. I slacked off on my exercise, but I'm getting back to it. I gained 10 pounds, so I want to get that gone. For Lent this year, I promised to eat better and exercise. Pretty good thing, too, because A1C sugar and cholesterol were significantly higher when tested the other day. I just had a bowl of sugar free cinnamon bun oatmeal. Yum.

I am so grateful to Chantix for helping me quit, but realize my own willpower is what saved the day. You absolutely have to set a date and have strong resolve. Can't quit without it. Good luck to all those trying to quit. You can do it!!! I smoked for 35 years, so it definitely can be done. Congratulations to those who are smoke free. You did it! You freaking did it! Stay smober!

Easy going day today. Cravings, so I decided to cook.

2011-11-15T13:36:00.001-06:00

Wow! I am so impressed with my effort to clean out my freezer. I have been craving a smoke pretty bad today. I think it's from boredom, so I decided to make a little headway in cleaning out my freezer. I found some big bags of frozen corn and decided I would make some sort of corn casserole. OMG! It turned out so good, I wrote down the recipe. I actually threw it together from ingredients I had on hand, and I am sharing it here so you can enjoy it also. I call it Cleaning out the freezer Corn Casserole. I believe in keeping things as real and simple as possible. Can't you tell?

Cleaning out the freezer Corn Casserole

Ingredients

1 32 oz bag corn niblets
1 can diced tomatoes with green pepper &
onion
2 cups instant brown rice
1 cup unsalted chicken broth
1 T. cumin
1 T. chili powder
2 t. salt
2 t. parsley flakes
Fresh black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes to taste
Half a package of Kraft cracked black
pepper cheddar cheese

How to make:

Mix corn, tomatoes, half a tomato can of
water, rice, and chicken broth in large bowl.
Mix in dry ingredients and sprinkle the top
with parsley for color. Bake at 350 for 50
minutes in a 13 x 9 pan. Remove from oven and top with
grated cheese. Cook for another 15 minutes
until bubbly around edges.

I think I may freeze this and reheat for thanksgiving. No cravings now. Yay! Now I'm putting it right back in the freezer. Makes no sense at all, does it? Oh Well...I tried.

Even more stress, but still not smoking thanks to Chantix!

2011-11-10T17:33:00.000-06:00

I have not been posting regularly again, but wait until you hear the latest goings on. My last post was on October 30th. On November 1st, Mom had her follow up visit to check on that second shoulder surgery. Turns out, her shoulder was dislocated again. So depressing. The doc thinks it is from movement. He had stressed that she keep her arm immobilized, but it wasn't happening. His medical advice was for her to let him go back in and change one of the parts, so it will be more sturdy and stressed that she will need to keep her arm immobilized. Her other option was to not have surgery and live with her shoulder dislocated. Option 2 is what Mom chose, and it's against medical advice.

She's been in quite a bit of pain, but she has her meds that take the edge off. She has 24 hour sitters, and it doesn't really matter now if her arm is in a sling or not. Her balance is very bad, and I think when she was standing up, she was reaching out with that left arm for balance. The wrong type sling didn't help keep her arm immobilized either.

It gets even worse. That same day (last Tuesday), I got a call while we were in Mom's apartment. My cousin called with news of my Aunt's passing. It was sudden and unexpected, and I was asked to tell my Mom and brother. When I told Mom, she was heartbroken. I was, too. I wound up going to her funeral last Thursday, and traveling over the weekend on a visit. I've been busy all this week with Mom, taking a friend to the doctor, and cleaning, and doing laundry. It's been crazy.

Today is my daughter's birthday. She is no longer a teenager. Wow! I remember the day she was born so well. I feel old now. Oh well! Even with all the drama and sadness and stress, I have not smoked. I thank Chantix for the extra push and help to quit, but I want to stress to those considering using it, it takes self control and will power to stay quit. There are links on the page to the right to quit smoking message boards and discussions. They are an invaluable support system. Go ahead, do some reading. You'll see. The folks are nice and very helpful and I am eternally grateful to them.

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!

Lots of stress in my life, but I'm not smoking!

2011-10-30T08:35:00.002-05:00

If you've been reading my blog, you know my Mom had shoulder replacement surgery on August 22nd. It took a pretty long while for her to recover from the effects of all the drugs they gave her. She was totally whacked out, but she recovered, and I was just thrilled for her. She was back in her apartment in the assisted living facility and had physical and occupational therapy there. All was well with the world.

The weekend of October 8th, Mom's shoulder was hurting and a bit swollen. We chalked it up to aggressive therapy and sore muscles, but by Monday evening, she was in the hospital because she was hurting so much. X-rays had been taken and her shoulder replacement had become badly dislocated. She was discharged the next day because cultures needed to be grown to check for infection. She couldn't have any repair surgery for a week. Agonizing! A CT scan was ordered and the doctor discovered a broken scapula. Ugh.

On October 17th, Mom had surgery to fix the break with a metal plate and screws and relocate her shoulder. Turned out, she had no infection. Now she has a scar on her back to match the one in the front. The break was eventually blamed on aggressive physical therapy, and the doctor ruled out a fall. She is back in her apartment now with 24 hour sitter care. Her arm is immobilized, so she has trouble doing basic things and she's not allowed to use her walker yet. Her recovery from this second surgery was much better and she's our good old Mom we all know and love again. I think they changed her meds this time, because the doctor noted all her confusion after the first surgery.

Now you know why I haven't been posting regularly. I've been super busy and quite stressed out. Some health issues of my own have cropped up, but I'm getting better every day. Through all this drama and stress, I have not smoked. I have had some pretty strong cravings, too. I especially crave a ciggy when I see someone smoking. Strangely enough, I don't crave one when I smell cigarette smoke on a person in the store. I am happy and proud to be a non-smoker. A cigarette would not solve any problems, and would only cause me more stress. It would also give me a heavy dose of guilt, which I definitely don't need.

I used Chantix to help me quit. I had some minor side effects, but nothing major. It really helped me quit. The dreams were interesting to me, not scary. It was fun to try and analyze them in the mornings. If you want to quit smoking, it is certainly something you need to discuss with your doctor. There are other prescriptions that can help you quit smoking as well as over the counter things, but your personal doctor can advise you best. Just make sure you are firmly resolved to quit smoking.

To those who have already quit, congratulations. Stay happy. Stay smober! Peace everybody!

Getting back to cleaning mode. Helps with cravings to smoke.

2011-10-07T09:43:00.000-05:00

I have been cleaning like crazy. I cleaned out my closet and had about a dozen kitchen trash bags of clothes to donate. I haven't been craving all that strongly, but when I smell smoke or smell someone who smells like smoke, I get a twinge. It goes away quickly.

Anyway, I've been cleaning like crazy to cut down on any cravings, the house needs to be cleaned, I need to exercise, and we are putting our house on the market. We'll be moving into my Mom's house. She deeded it over to me, so I've had a lot going on with painting and sprucing up there and getting our house ready to show. It's been crazy!

I'm hoping our house will sell really quickly, but we'll see. There's no mortgage at Mom's so that's one less thing we have to worry about. Her house is older, but it's in good shape. Our house is not even 10 years old and closer to malls and such, so we're keeping our fingers crossed.

Through everything going on, I have not smoked. I'm tickled pink to be a non smoker now. I feel free. I am happy. There is a bit of stress in my life, but I'm handling it just fine.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Over 6 months smoke free!

2011-09-30T08:02:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how fast the time has flown. I am over 6 months smoke free! I haven't posted in a while because I've just been swamped with things to do during the day. When the evening comes, I'm just not in the mood to post, so I go on Facebook and play games there to relax.

As a result of staying busy and running around during the day, then relaxing in the evening, I have put on weight. I haven't been doing my exercises, and I've been eating on the run. I gained 10 pounds in 2 months. Not good. My sugar has been running higher than usual, so I am just starting to carve out time to do my exercises. My tummy muscles are a bit sore from yesterday's workout, but my sugar went down after I did it.

The main reason I have for working out is my diabetes and keeping my sugar down. Second reason is vanity. A lot of my clothes don't fit, and those I can squeeze into, simply don't look right. I was feeling so confident before and fitting into cute clothes and feeling strong and great, so I need to get back to that. I started yesterday, and will fit in at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. I'll also start back with healthier eating. I wonder how long it will take me to lose this 10 pounds. Two months to gain it. I'll keep you posted on how long it takes to lose it.

I'll be using Myfitnesspal.com to track food and exercise. That helps keep me on track. I posted a link to their site over on the right. It really helps you track calories, and you'll probably be surprised at how much you eat in a day. I know I was.

Anyway, through all this, I am still smoke free, and I couldn't have done it without Chantix. Peace y'all!

I have been soo busy!

2011-08-30T07:48:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't been posting as frequently, but I have been so busy with my Mom and daughter. My daughter was sick last Friday, took her to the doctor, and she had a bacterial infection. Of course, Mom has kept me fairly busy with her move to rehab Friday, and then through the weekend making sure she had everything. This past Friday was a busy day, and I have been running.

Despite all the hubbub going on in my life, I haven't smoked. Oddly enough, I have dreamed of smoking. Last night, I dreamed I took a couple of puffs, thought it was nasty, and put it out. In my dream, my husband busted me for smoking, and I felt so guilty. He found a pack of cigarettes in my purse or something. All of that was a dream, thank goodness.

I have had some fairly strong cravings lately, but I think it has to do with stress. I know in my mind and heart that smoking doesn't help anything. I guess I can imagine smoking again, but I won't. There's every good reason to stay quit and none to start smoking again. I'm so glad I made the decision to quit, and I'm glad I told my doctor about it, because he prescribed Chantix for me. I just know I couldn't have quit without Chantix.

I hope everyone has a terrific week and you either stay smober or get that way!

My Mom has had her shoulder replacement surgery. I want a cigarette!

2011-08-23T05:37:00.002-05:00

I don't really want a cigarette. My Mom had her reverse shoulder replacement shoulder yesterday morning, and by the afternoon, she was like a hurt animal. She was lashing out at everyone. It was pretty crazy. Interestingly enough, I had no desire at all for a cigarette. I think by now after almost 6 months, I am a non smoker.

I have read stories of people who have caved after being quit for 5 years or more. I don't think I am one of those people, but I guess you never know. I am very grateful to have had the help of Chantix for my quit, and I know it doesn't work for everyone, but it did for me. I am not trying to be pushy about it or trying to "sell" it or anything. I do feel somewhat obligated to mention it though, because the name of my blog has Chantix in the title.

I will be going to see my Mom at the hospital again today. Lord knows what awaits me there. She was so snarly yesterday afternoon, but I knew she was on drugs and in pain. It will get better, so I'm keeping my eyes on the prize, so to speak. That prize would be more function and less pain for my Mom. I just can't stand to see her in pain. I want to just grab her up and protect her from it. I want to be a Mama bear. She's going to really hurt for a while, I know, but the goal is to have her bone on bone arthritis pain go away. She had a knee replacement, so she knows she will feel better over time.

I will get through all this without smoking. I will stay smober and breathe deeply because I can. Isn't that cool?
Hope everyone has a fabulous day!

This weekend will be a long one!

2011-08-18T08:43:00.000-05:00

My Mom is having shoulder surgery on Monday, so I'm just sure this weekend is going to be a long one. I know I'll be worrying about her before that surgery. I won't smoke, though. I promise. I'll stay busy as hell cleaning or something.

I went to the mall with my daughter yesterday. What fun! It's an old fashioned indoor mall in Mobile called the Bel Air Mall. I hardly ever go across the Mobile Bay but this was a spur of the moment nothing better to do trip. It was a lot of fun spending time with my daughter. We looked at ovens and dishwashers at Sears, went to Spencer's Gifts to look at all the naughty gifts and T-shirts, and went to the arcade. I watched her do Dance Dance Revolution. The last song was so fast even SHE couldn't keep up with it. I didn't even try it. I didn't want to leave the mall with a bloody nose from falling flat on my face! :)

Looking forward to today and staying smoke free. It's been five months, and I'm still going strong. I'm so happy that I'm over the worst of the quit. I rarely have cravings, and when I do, they are very weak and short lived. I will always be grateful for Chantix because it helped me in my quit so spectacularly. It was a wonder drug for me, so if you are considering quitting, ask your doctor if you can use it to help quit smoking.

Staying smober and breathing deeply! Hope everyone who's quit does the same! Peace y'all!

Uneventful weekend with no smoking! Yay!

2011-08-15T21:31:00.001-05:00

That's right! I'm boring! I didn't really do much of anything this past weekend. I saw my Aunt briefly on Saturday, and Sunday was a bra and makeup free day. I didn't go anywhere, but I did make myself a yummy lunch.

I have kicked the cigarette smoking habit, but now I'm hooked on popcorn and frozen grapes. The grapes are good for me, but the popcorn, not so much. I like more than the 100 calorie bags, and I like butter, so I guess I don't have to add 2 and 2 for anyone reading this. :)

My daughter got a job at Pet Smart and she's so happy. She wants to be a vet tech, so this is a good door that opened for her. She's also signed up for online classes at the community college, and I'm so proud of her.

I'll be busy tomorrow taking my Mom to the doctors. She's probably getting shoulder surgery. Her primary care doc has to sign off on that for her, so we're keeping our fingers crossed. We are hoping this will bring her relief, and from what we've heard from the ortho doc, this surgery will do the trick.

Even with all this "stuff" going on, I'm still smoke free. I am soooo thrilled to be able to say that. Cravings are few and far between, and I feel so free. It feels marvelous to take a really deep breath and not cough. Hell, it feels marvelous to simply be able to take a deep breath. I took the dog for a walk today around the neighborhood, then took him to Pet Smart, so we've had our exercise today. I may do a bit on the Wii tonight.

Thank you Phizer for making Chantix, I know there are horror stories out there about it, and everybody is different with reactions to drugs, but this med worked for me. Remember, you have to have the strong resolve to quit. The Chantix will dull the cravings. I hope everyone reading this will get or stay smober by whatever means works.

Stay happy and be kind!

A poem for everyone today!

2011-08-10T15:20:00.000-05:00

Mother Teresa's Anyway Poem

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and your God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

The verse above was reportedly written on the wall of Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta, India, and is widely attributed to her. Some sources say that the words were written on the wall in Mother Teresa's own room. However, these words are based on a composition originally by Kent Keith, but much of the second half has been re-written in a more spiritual way. It can be inferred that Mother Teresa did a rewrite and edit of the poem. It is lovely, in my opinion, and I wanted to share.

Cleaning like crazy!

2011-08-02T19:31:00.000-05:00

Well, that's it...I've been cleaning like crazy today. I broke a salad plate while unloading the dishwasher which prompted me to really clean the hard floors. I'll vacuum later tonight or sometime tomorrow. It's been fun making the house smell good again. I was so busy with my Mom, I just haven't had time to clean like I want to do.

Tuesday night and almost 5 months quit. I still have cravings, but I haven't smoked. I am staying smober and feeling great. I guess the only problem is I have gained some weight this past month because I was eating on the go and not getting my exercise.

I have also developed some neuropathy. At least, I think that's what it is. Bummer. Goes with the territory of diabetes. I'll start trying to make it better with diet and exercise. I'll have to go see the doctor at some point to get the official diagnosis, but I know what it is from reading on the internet and hearing from my aunt who has it. She does not control her blood sugar well. B vitamins are supposed to help, so I'll look into that as well.

On a lighter vein, it's shark week and mob week...what to watch, what to watch? Hope everyone enjoys their week and stays or gets smober! If you are having trouble quitting, see your doctor about Chantix. Worked for me!

Going to see Cowboys and Aliens today!

2011-07-30T14:02:00.000-05:00

I have been looking forward to seeing this movie for a while now. I saw a promo for it months ago, and it sounded so silly and fun, I knew I had to see it. My brother and my daughter are going with me, and I'm sure we'll have a great time. Cowboys and Aliens...what a great title!

My Mom is all settled in at the assisted living facility and seems quite happy there. She's making friends and is not so isolated. I know she's getting help and care, so that's a big relief to me. Everything is falling into place and is lots less stressful now.

Wow! I really changed subjects, didn't I? I wonder what Freud would say about my first paragraph being about cowboys and aliens and the second paragraph being about my Mother. :) I just have some rather scattered thoughts sometimes. I guess that's OK. My feet stay mostly on the ground.

I am still not smoking, and I've pretty much stopped counting how long it's been since I quit. It's over 4 months, I know. I rarely even crave a smoke now, but when I do have a craving, it can get a bit intense. I just remind myself I'm not a smoker anymore, take some deep breaths, and the craving is gone very quickly.

I want to reiterate how grateful I am to have had the help of Chantix with quitting. It really performed a miracle for me. I had the drive and will power to stick with it and stay quit, and I'm sure that helped.

I think nothing will work if you don't have the right attitude and fortitude. If you are considering quitting smoking, I hope you'll remember that you have to want to be smober. Aids can help, but it's really will power that makes you stay quit.

Getting off my soapbox now, and I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!

Wow! What a busy week! Stessful, but I'm not smoking!

2011-07-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

I have been sooo busy this week. Getting my Mom situated in her new apartment has been such busy work, but I don't mind. I just want her to be settled in and comfortable. She didn't go to her doctor's appointment on Monday so it was rescheduled for today.

She did make it to the doc today and she is penciled in for surgery on her shoulder late August. She's 81 years old, so surgery and rehab are not going to be easy at all. Not that they are any easier for a younger person. I know they are not, but you know....

I've been super busy and dealing with lots of stress, but I'm keeping my head down and plowing through. You gotta keep on keepin' on. Below is one of my favorite quotes. It really sums up my personal philosophy, and helps me remember my purpose on this little planet of ours.

"Do all the good you can.
By all the means you can.
In all the ways you can.
In all the places you can.
At all the times you can.
To all the people you can.
As long as ever you can."
— John Wesley

Stressed but smoke free thanks to a strong will and Chantix. Hope all you quitters stay smober! Have a great weekend, y'all!

Early morning cravings.

2011-07-18T05:52:00.000-05:00

I woke up at 5 am this morning, and for some reason, my cravings for a smoke are very strong. I don't have any here, so I know I can't have one due to lack of access, but still the craving persists. I have had a little protein and I am drinking water and chewing ice. I know how to work through these things, but it's frustrating they are so strong this late in my quit.

It's been over 4 months...yay! It's dark outside and it's so quiet. I love this time of day. I guess maybe I should get some cleaning done while I have the time, but somehow dinking around on the computer helps cravings the most. I have no fear of taking up smoking again. I am too strong for that at this point. I have learned how to tell the nicodemon to go away and quit whispering in my ear.

I know this is a disjointed and rather rambling post, but I just woke up about 30 minutes ago and I've only had one cup of coffee, so I figure it's OK. I'm craving and rambling.

That brings me to a good point of this post for those who are early on in their quit. It's OK to vent and ramble. The message boards can help you work through all that. I have a couple of links over there on the right to a couple of fantastic boards, so definitely check them out for support.

I'm headed over there right now. I haven't logged on in a while because I've been so busy with my Mom, I haven't had time to do much of anything. She's moved into assisted living because of a bad rotator cuff, so her shoulder does not allow her to do very simple tasks that must be done. She needed help, and she's greatful to have it. I'm happy she has the help and is less isolated. She's already made some friends there.

Off I go to start my day. She goes to the orthopod doc today. We will be discussing surgical options today. She's 81...this is not going to be easy at all. Say a prayer for me and for her please.

Peace y'all! Stay smober!

It wasn't carbs. It was the statin drug causing stomach problems.

2011-07-11T21:54:00.001-05:00

I have to post to clarify about my stomach problems. I finally put 2 and 2 together when I accidently missed a couple of doses of my statin drug and felt better. I have now gone about a week without it, and I'm feeling fine. It was just a coincidence about the carbs in my diet causing problems. I now need to tell my doctor I'm off the cholesterol med.

I tried a little while ago to control my cholesterol with diet and exercise, but it didn't work. The first statin spiked my blood sugar, and now this second statin caused all sorts of tummy problems. I really have to see about alternatives. Maybe fish oil would help. It certainly couldn't hurt.

Things are calming down a bit, and I'm feeling a bit less stressed out. I haven't smoked at all since I quit in March with the help of Chantix. I'm feeling great now, and I'm happy to say, "I'm a quitter."

I hope everyone has a fantastic smoke free week.

Been so busy and stressed, but I'm not smoking!

2011-07-07T07:11:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I have been taking care of my Mom. She has been having a lot of arthritis pain in her shoulders, and It finally became unbearable over the weekend. She let me take her to the hospital, and then she finally got admitted. I won't vent here about the whole hospital ER experience, but it was quite deplorable they were going to put a sling on her arm and send her home. They wanted to put a bandaid on the problem, and not take care of her or get her somewhere she could get help. It took my entire family being proactive to get her the care she needed. Be proactive about your healthcare!

When she was released after 2 nights in the hospital, we took her to an assisted living facility. That was her decision, not ours, and I think it was a great one. The facility is right around the corner from me, and all she has to do to get help with anything is press a button. She seems to really like it so far, and it's certainly a relief to me. She was rattling around in her house by herself at night, and it was making me very nervous that she was alone at night.

Anyway, it's a little after 7 in the morning. I just got up a few minutes ago, and I have to head over to see her in a little bit to make sure she's taking her meds, and make sure she took her meds last night. Being a primary caretaker is exhausting, but I wouldn't trade helping my Mom for anything. I'm so glad she's here and still has her mental faculties. We talk and laugh and just have the best time together. She has become a good friend to me as I've gotten older, and we enjoy being together. She's less ornery now, and we get along so well when she's being nice and "behaving herself", which is almost all the time now. Yay!

Gotta go now, but even with all this stress, I'm not smoking. Cravings have been a bit more frequent lately and stronger, but I know in my head they are short and I can get through them. Also, smoking wouldn't solve my stress. In fact, I'd be more stressed and guilty, so I'm not going there.

Peace y'all!

I feel skinny again! Low carb was the way to go!

2011-06-29T08:05:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the change that has happened to me simply by cutting carbs in my diet. I started yesterday with protein for breakfast and felt great all day. I felt better than I've felt in weeks. No bloating or pain...yay! Today, I had some cheddar cheese and a yummy juicy in season Chilton County peach. I feel mahvelous!

I have to give some credit to my doc. I think he was right about the Metformin, and it was causing me pain, but the big change happened yesterday morning and during the day. I can't believe something as simple as cutting carbs could work a miracle on me, but for all intents and purposes, I am healed! It's a miracle!

Today, I'm taking my friend to get a mammo. She's legally blind, so she can't drive. She also needs a knee replacement, but can't get the health insurance she needs to get it. We'll have lunch and probably do a little shopping. I need to get my Mom a new robe.

I saw my Mom yesterday. I took her lunch. Her shoulder is still hurting and she's still just taking it easy. The other day, a friend was over there doing some work at her house and noticed she was having trouble cutting a banana in half, so he did it for her. That's how bad her shoulder hurts. I did put an icy hot patch on it yesterday. Those seem to help, but she has so much calcification in her rotator cuff, she'll always have pain. Personally, I think she fell and is afraid to tell us.

She is starting to get forgetful with her meds also. She had quit using her pill caddy, so I got it all fixed up for her. Yesterday, all her meds for the day were in there, but she said she'd taken them. I honestly don't think she did, and I got onto her a little bit.

Today is a good day, because I'm feeling good and I'm a non smoker thanks to Chantix and good old fashioned will power. Hope everyone has a fabulous day!

I feel so much better today!

2011-06-28T15:33:00.000-05:00

If you've been reading my blog, you've seen that I have been having stomach problems. The doc told me to drop one of my diabetes meds, so I did that. I was still bloating pretty bad, so last night I did some online research. I researched low carb diets, eating grapes, and the glycemic index of foods.

I have been eating lots of popcorn and frozen grapes lately. Those small bites satisfy cravings to smoke I guess, but my research leads me to believe those foods are causing problems for me. I have decided to eliminate those foods and cut back on carbs. I have done the Atkins diet before, but I am not going to go to that extreme. Maybe eventually, I can drop my other diabetes med and my cholesterol med. My new goal to shoot for anyway.

I had a ham and cheese one egg omelet for breakfast this morning instead of my usual oatmeal or cereal, and I didn't bloat or feel bad. In fact, I am feeling great today! Later, I had a peach because my blood sugar was a bit low. For lunch, I had a spinach salad with bacon, boiled egg, and strawberries on it. Delicious and filling. Still feeling good. Could it really be as simple as cutting carbs? Maybe. I am experimenting and will keep you updated.

Wow! I am making some major life changes this year. I only drink alcohol once in a blue moon, I quit smoking, I'm changing my diet, and I'm still not smoking thanks to Chantix and sheer will power. These are huge changes, but I am discovering that I am pretty strong willed.

Staying smober, feeling good, and being happy! I wish all that for everyone.

Thanks y'all!

Judy

I am a quitter! I am a non smoker!

2011-06-27T20:45:00.000-05:00

I have not had a great day today, so I'm trying to be a bit positive in my title and my post. I have been under a bit of stress worrying about my Mom and daughter, but I have not smoked. I now feel comfortable saying that I'm a quitter. :)

This evening is uneventful. Dinking around on the computer and have the TV on Hoarders. I always feel better about myself and my home after watching how some people on that show live.

I almost didn't post today because nothing is really going on, but I logged into the GetQuit page at Phizer and it mentioned I am almost 4 months quit. That is a real accomplishment, and I feel really good about that. I guess I needed to pump myself up a bit to feel better overall. GetQuit is online and phone support you have access to when you have a prescription for Chantix.

I still have my reasons for quitting posted up on my computer desk. I see them every day. It helps me stay motivated. I hope people reading this who are thinking about or having trouble quitting will ask their doctor for help. I hope the quitters reading this stay smober!

Peace, y'all!