Day 160, Crazy Busy...

It's crazy busy at work but I thought I'd post that today markes 150 days quit! And $1,125.00 saved too! Not bad and thankfully I don't miss it. Woo Hoo...

Pfizer updates Chantix label in U.S. to include warning - MarketWatch

Pfizer updates Chantix label in U.S. to include warning - MarketWatch

I didn't experience increased depression or "suicidal ideation" but I did have issues with other side effects on Chantix. (I was also on antidepressants at the same time - something I think should be studied.) I think Chantix is a good drug and thanks to six weeks of it I am smoke free now for 140 days. Increased awareness and professional monitoring are good things. I just hope this does not discourage smokers who want to quit and need help getting over the initial hurdle.

Day 144, Reflections Part II

Upon arrival in Portland I wandered around the train station a minute trying to get my bearings. Tired and hungry, I elected to cab it to the hotel. I wanted three things: a shower, a meal and a cocktail. In no time I satisfied all three and was blissfully asleep in a comfy, warm bed reflecting on my first night. I had an amazing dinner and met some very nice, friendly people who showed me a fine time out on the town.

The next day Maggie gave me the grand tour of Portland. (Thanks again!) We took the Streetcar all around town and stopped to take the Ariel Tram. Unfortunately it was closed so we hopped on the next car and headed back downtown, through the Pearl District and on the NW 23rd Avenue. It's a really neat neighborhood with lot's of little shops, restaurants, and pubs. We had a good time wandering around and enjoying the nice albeit chilly day. Unfortunately yours truly forgot the camera, Doh! Why don't all cities have such clean, simple and efficient public transportation?

Prior to departure on Monday I did return to the Tram and despite a fear of heights rode the monstrosity to the top of the hill and back. It was gray and overcast but here are a couple of shots:



Today marks one hundred and thirty four days quit and a whopping $1,005.00 saved.

Day 137, Reflections...

In early December I took the first train trip of my life. It was something I never thought I could do as I lamented on day 63. You see, the train is non-smoking and I did not know how often one could depart for a quicky. I discovered such opportunities are rare indeed. In fact once I boarded in Emeryville California the first and only chance before my Portland destination was in Eugene Oregon. That's like 12 hours! I would have either died or killed some poor soul!

Neither happened and I enjoyed the trip. I splurged a little and booked a "sleeperette" which is a cozy (read teeny tiny) private room for sleeping and and lounging. Here you can see my duffel and the much needed glass of wine after the long day and a near midnight departure.

Of all the sights I most enjoyed the passage through an unknown mountain range. (I was given conflicting information whether it was the Cascades.) There were moments that were breathtaking. Although these photo's do no justice I hope you can imagine the scenes.

Next stop - the Great City of Portland!

Day 136, Cats and Dogs

Although it is raining cats and dogs today and I was soaked from the waist down by the time I got into the office it is Friday so there's at least one reason to be happy. That and I don't have that nagging feeling to brave the wind and rain for a stupid cigarette. Ha - take that Phillip Morris!

One hundred twenty six days smoke free and $945.00 saved.

Day 135, Still Here

Although I fell off the blogging wagon I did not fall on the smoking wagon. That despite the holiday excess of food and drink during which I would take great pleasure in a cigarette or thirty. Not this year. Like many of my fellow bloggers this was a smoke free holiday and going strong into the new year.

Thanks to Chantix and a boat load of stubbornness am smoke free 125 days with a whopping $938.00 saved.