[pylon]

Well, tonight was a good test. 15 laps around the Talisman track (3 kms) at a good clip, and I wasn't dying. Normally after 10 laps, I used to be gasping for breath. Amazing what a week and a bit will do.

And Cecil, I get what you are saying. I, like you, actually like smoking. If there was no health implications, I would do it with out a care. Unfortunately, I think to be successful, you just have to decide that although you like it, you just can't have it. I honestly do not believe there is a middle ground once you are hooked. It is pretty safe to say that 1 or 2 now will be 4 or 5 next time, and then the time after that, instead of being a mooch, you'll buy a pack before you go out, then boom.... you are hooked again.

I can't emphasize what working out will do to get you brain in the right mode. I started working out 3 months ago, and after a few weeks, quitting just seemed to be the next logical step. If I didn't know I was going to the gym 4 or 5 nights a week, I probably would still be lighting up.

edit: And today was the first day a woke up without a phlegm ball in my throat, and the little rumble in my chest is completely gone, which is a HUGE bonus. Now when I laugh you don't hear that horrible smokers laugh.