Hi Marty,
Thanks for the great info. I have read the Buddy Systems and will stay on guard for those very real dangers! The first day of my quit I printed out the Benefits Timetable and kept it on my dresser to look at daily as one of my tools to stay on track and keep my hope up.
I just read your thread and your personal story of improved health is very inspiring! I am very happy for you and now more hopeful for me! Although I am very early in my quit I have already noticed that I get a little less winded with my swimming, and I surely hope that trend continues. I also plan on tracking my heart rate to see if it goes down both after swimming and at rest.
Quitting smoking is so wonderful. You are at 7 years and 7 months, and someday I want to be able to say that too.
Thanks again for the words of wisdom and the hope they inspire,
pat