I so very much appreciate the support and encouragement here.  I'm the only one in my "real" life who knows that this time I really DID IT.  I haven't smoked in a full week!  It hasn't even been that hard.  I am so happy to be free, and even though it took me so long and suffering so much pain and guilt, I am trying to be proud of myself NOW, instead of beating myself up for my past stupidity and addiction and (chosen) slavery.  The words here from you all help, but for the first time ever I am doing this because I made a commitment to MYSELF, to actually care about my own well-being for once, and for the first time it's enough that I am proud of myself.  It seems to be applicable to other parts of my life now as well - suddenly I feel a little more free to speak my mind, not let others hurt me, have appropriate boundaries, take care of my health in ways I have been neglecting, etc.  How empowering freedom from nicotine can be.