Mee

Hope it is not that flu (the flu shot did not cover)!

Just a little update. My dad is still in the hospital but is finally starting to turn a corner for the better. My mom has spent the entire time at his side. I actually think she really felt she was losing him this time. They are making sure he is stable before they send him on to rehab. My mom has threatened the doctors that she will take my dad home, with paid care, if they want to put him in a nursing home. I hate to see that too but know that, in my moms world, that would be a disaster. Between my husband, son and daughter, I have been able to keep a healthier balance of being there. This has truly been a test of how stress plays that part in smoking. I have been consumed with the thoughts of sitting and relaxing with that cigarette. Consumed yes, but acting no! There is more of me that wants that quit and not that cigarette.

Nope!

We turn ours on, long before we need it, for the dogs! My husband runs it too cold for me. I just wear sweaters.

Is there no air conditioning there?

I am right there with you Joe. Petrified the dogs are going to turn into statues in the yard!

Nope!

Congratulations on 2 years! I am so glad you have been here to guide me on my journey. For a pig, you are so full of wisdom!

MLMR you actually are my hero. Being able to freely talk about your struggles with mental illness and share it with others is so brave. There has always been such a stigma associated with mental illness, many of us who deal with the same issues are afraid to talk about it. Following you story is a true inspiration. I hope you realize how strong you are and know that you will also be able to weather the decision to end your relationship. Be patient, pamper yourself and know that the best is yet to come.

@Frezflops we are just heading into that freeze. They are saying negative 30 wind chill. Wish it would freeze some of those fat cells. I am doing my workout. 30 min of rowing, 30 min of walking and 30 min. Of elliptical. Quite impressed with myself. Now I am waiting for the massage chair.

Thanks for letting me know. I really stress when I lose one of my faithful supporters. So he is still off partying.

Not like the Reci to disappear. I do hope everything is all right. Miss his advice and support.

Nope I don't think so. They are talking 30 to 50 below windchill factors.

Congrats on three weeks. I am not like you, I hate new functions nothing makes me meaner than a new phone or when my husband changes cable companies. Opah, I am sure that phone cost a pretty penny. Take care of that sweet thing.

Nope

Congratulations Raidermom! Two months is great.

Congratulations. The tough month is over. Keep that quit going!

Peter, I am sorry for your loss also. Such a heartbreaking situation. Thank you so much for sharing it in a way that it will help others.

Yes, your heart is breaking right now. It will take time to heal. Sometimes those difficult paths lead to wonderful new destinations. I think you are strong and should trust your instincts. We are here to listen or lift you up. Please reach out to us because we care.

Any season that does not include snow or cold. Our springs and falls can sometimes include both so I guess mine is summer. You know I was still working on the toilet paper one. I had been practicing both techniques all week. So intent on working it out, I missed the vote!

MLMR, I am sorry your relationship has not worked out. Maybe now that the cloud of smoke is gone, you can see the relationship for what it has been. My daughter has been in a bad relationship for 17 years. I have watched a beautiful girl lose that beauty, self esteem and glow of happiness. I do not believe she is strong enough to leave. My heart aches for her because she has settled for this and has missed out on a truly loving relationship. You, my dear, are a strong person. You have been able to overcome the emotional illnesses that have plagued you and now you have overcome your addiction. You are not alone, you have a train load of friends here. We are here for you. This just may be another step in the direction of that new and wonderful life you are working towards. xxxx Linda

Peter, this is great and couldn't have come at a better time for me. I have copied this and slipped it in my wallet to pull out and read when I get those unwanted craves. If I wasn't such a wimp, I might have had it tattooed somewhere! I have been thinking it has been a difficult struggle lately. My dad is in the hospital now and I do not think he will be able to pull out of it. The stress has been constant. Last night, as I lay in bed, I was so angry that those craves kept coming at me. I could not sleep. I was so irritated at, my husband snoring, the clock downstairs chiming, replaying the days events over and over in my brain. I actually thought, if there wasn't this freezing polar vortex outside, I might have been tempted to go to the corner store. My quit, so far has been the thing that has made me most proud. It has made me feel strong. Having that cigarette would be having a big temper tantrum because I can not control my life. You definitely have great wisdom to share. I am so glad you have found us.

Hi Peter. I am still somewhat of a newbie and can use all the encouragement I can get. I am sure you have plenty of wonderful knowledge to share.

Nope

That is the part that keeps me there. I kind of say I am working on my crown for heaven. Regardless of who or how my parents are, I would be there. It is my nature. I have been that way all my life and have done the same with neighbors and friends. My youngest brother was the golden child. Still is and is not there to help. You and I will not regret it. If you ever need to commiserate, message me any time.