Why cops Suck

Porter Cable compact belt sander

This is the belt sander I have spent my whole life looking for.  its contemporary style resembling an armadillo is amazing, as is the light weight compact design.  The flush side of this sander enable me to sand tight to perpendicular sufaces, and low center of gravity gives the armadillo a perfect balance.  Other design features include a sealed and recessed switch for dust protection and and accessability and multiple grips for comfort in various sander orientations.  All told, this is a great sander for all your minor belt sanding needs.

Bosch Table Saw Review (4100-09)

Wow. I have to say I am most impressed with the latest model 10" table saw from Bosch. The 4100-09 takes all the features you always loved about the 4000 and incorporates a cleaner yet more rugged design, enhanced safety features, and the best stand ever designed for table saw portability.

The details:
The 4100-09 boasts a powerful 4 horse power 15 amp motor, that spins the 10" blade at 3650 RPMs. It boasts the largest table surface in its class at 29" X 21 1/2". The Gravity-Rise Wheeled Table Saw Stand features a patented design for the easiest set up and take down of your table saw; heavy-duty construction and 8" pneumatic wheels allow the Gravity-Rise stand to handle the toughest job sites. The Smart Guard System is the first ever quick and easy-to-use modular blade guard. The anti-kickback pawls and riving knife system provides superior control over the material and maximum visibility while cutting. Finally, the best in class Square Lock rip fence, easily slides along the rail for precise adjustments, and clamps down securely to ensure perfect cuts every time.

Results:
This is the best saw ever made for contractors on the go and DIY-ers looking for professional results. The gravity rise stand make storage and portability exceedingly simple, while the full complement of accessories (out feed support, left side support, dust collection) make it perfect for handling big jobs alone.

Bottom Line:
This saw is perfect for nearly everyone. Whether you are ripping 2X12 cedar beams for a gazebo or making raised panels for custom cabinet doors or working on a bird house for the grandkids, this saw is going to be great for you.

Click here for more infomation or to place an order

Identity theft and the leftist spin

These idiots at CNN think that stealing and illegally using some one else's social security number should not be called identity theft, as long as your don't drain their checking accounts. Are they serious?

"Where's the Beef?"

Where's the Beef? and the rest of TV Lands top 100 television catch phrases of all time. Definately worth a look!

Also, see the woman who 10 chance performance made Bob Barker retire. This is great!!

another hockey fight

This one by Kelly's favorite EX. Click here to see it.

And if this Rumsfeld video doesn't make you laugh, nothing will!!

ONE YEAR!!!
more to come, later!!

Hockey

Hockey season is off to a great start for both the Gladiators and the Thrashers. Both clubs won again last night. Thrashers lead their division, are tied in their conference and 2nd in the league in points. Gladiators, lead the division, their conference and are tied for first in the league in points. What a great way to start.

Are you white and nerdy?

Jars of Clay

They have a new album, and awesome new video
Check it out!!


Tiger Woods golf clip...cool

What is a ho?...very funny

Star Wars Lego Symphony

This is just plain cool....or very nerdy...depending on your point of view.

Hockey Fight!!

Here is a video of Gwinnett's own, Desbiens beating up on the AHL!!

Way to GO Guillaume!!

Hockey and stuff

Hockey is back. Tonight is the second home game of the gladiators season and they are off to a really good start. The Thrashers have also started better than they have ever before as well, so it has been a good month. Tonight's game the kids get to wear their costumes, so that should be interesting. Below is a hilarious toyota commercial.

11 months....and stuff

Its been over 11 months without a cigarette. I have saved over $2000, and not smoked more than 13,500 cigaretts. I know I have said it before, but those numbers are staggering. It hasn't always been easy...but it has been worth it. Anyway, the new job is going well, the kids are healthyish, Kelly got a cool job now, there is a beer tasting friday, and its HOCKEY TIME!!! So, I guess things are generally pretty good. Thats it for now.

Funny unaired copier commercial

Buy your stuff back...again

The Governor signed a new law allowing the state to operate a "thrift store" to sell us the stuff they stole from us at the airport. While we should be shocked, Ga is following the lead of numerous other states who have been selling your stuff on EBAY or through various other auctions or public sales.

UPDATE: I went there, so you don't have to, and what a waste. There were bins of pocket knives and corkscrews as reported, and they were a dollar like we were told, however, there were no "bargins" no real steals, except for the fact the government is now profiting off the stuff they stole from us. But don't waste your time driving down there. There were 5-6 bins of knives, corkscrews, and scissors, all of which you can get in better condition and brand new from your local dollar store.

Gas Prices

Well, it looks like I was wromg again. About a year ago, with gas prices over $3 a gallon, and idiots buying it up saying the world was going to run out of fuel...whatever. Still, I made the statement that we would never see gas prices under $2 again. Today however, I paid $1.99, and I have seen a couple of prices for less than that. So woohoo for us.

Atlantagasprices.com shows you where the lowest, and highest prices in the area are. They had reports today of $1.93!!

MOVING Sucks!!

This is the latest installment of my things that suck collumn. I know its been a while since the last one so here goes.

I hate moving. I hate packing. I hate rental trucks, driving rental trucks, packing rental truck, and unloading rental trucks. Returning the rental truck was ok...this time, but only because I got money back!! But I still hate moving.

We are pretty well situated now. Most of the boxes are unpacked. Most of the pictures are on the walls, and most of the stuff has a place...most of it. That is the tricky part, finding spots for all our crap.

Anyway, I was smart enough to make a chiropractor appointment for Monday. I made it after lifting the third box, I think. We were also smart enough to get some good friends and family members to come help pack, load, unload, watch kids, unpack, sort, and clean. Without them, we would still be, well who knows, but it wouldn't be good.

So thanks to everyone, for making moving a little less sucky.

Bush....saving our lives everyday!

This clip explains how Bush has saved us from all those dangers just waiting for the right opportunity to strike us dead. It goes indepth on the lessons Bush learned post 8-29 (Katrina), and the "War on Hurricanes" that followed. Thanks to Bush's unprecedented leadership, we have not been struck by a hurricane since.



Clip of the day:
Don't miss this video....you will ROFL!!

A very good impressionist, he does like 50...impressive

Does God want you to be Rich?

Time Magazine, while trying to bash Christians, may be onto something, for a change. Read the CNN summary story here. Also: click here for the clip of the day, Jon Stewart on video games. And a bonus video, "the power of a dewalt drill, 'Guaranteed Tough'" This commercial never made to air! And finally, 10 MONTHS, Smoke Free. Still kicking it. Who would hae thought I would stay off these things for 10 months?

Steve Irwin...

You know I had to get a piece of this...
Here is a link to his death video
caution: insensitive and a little foul language

my newest video endeavor

so, what do you think?

Very Cool

Check out this news story on CNN...Its pretty cool, and I'm guessing she's HOT!

Clip of the Day:
Police Chase with a rough ending...not too graphic...but well its rough

And check out this Table Saw, and the Hot Dog Demo, very cool stuff...I could have used this once, luckily I did not get it like a few other folks I know.

Clip of the Day

Yeah, so, I got behind. Here are a couple until I get caught up again.

This guy plays a floor piano by bounce juggling balls onto it!

This guy intentionally burns off his parachute while freefalling

PETA Kills Animals!!

Hypocrisy is the mother of all credibility problems, and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has it in spades. While loudly complaining about the "unethical" treatment of animals by restaurant owners, grocers, farmers, scientists, anglers, and countless other Americans, the group has its own dirty little secret.

PETA kills animals. By the thousands.

Read more here...

March of Dimes

November 14th March of Dimes celebrates Prematurity Awareness Day.
If we can persuade Google to create a doodle for us on November 14th, we can potentially be seen by millions of internet users.
Please help us spread the word, and sign the petition for the top spot on Google!

Pluto gets booted...Cafe Press gets boosted!!

Just 2 days after Pluto gets nixed as an official planet, CafePress.Com has 390 designs on over 4000 products! Now, I don't really care at all if Pluto is a planet or a cold rock orbiting the sun really slowly, but 74 years of planethood should grandfather it in...in my opinion. I just wonder how much money we spend to decide if we should call it a dwarf. I wonder when the ACLU will sue so we can call it the dimensionally challenged planet instead.

Rubik's Cube

I thought I was smart being able to do the cube. But there are videos of people doing it one handed in 20 seconds. The 2 hand world record is just under 10 seconds. I only got under 2 minutes once...They have 4 year old kids doing it in under 1 minute. Thats nuts. Here you can see a guy do it in 2:18, BLINDFOLDED!!

Project 2

I started a new project in another really cool building called One Atlantic Center. It used to be known world wide as the IBM Tower and was the tallest building in Atlanta until 1992, when it was surpassed by the Bank of America Plaza. Anyway, I am working on the 36th floor which has stunning views of the rest of Atlanta's architecture.
This is a night shot of the top 15 floors (give or take) and the spire.
COTD:
A news reporter blown up by a manhole cover in NYC

Bonus Clip: Extreme Tubing A very cool boat, tubing launch!

Hurricanes...

Well it seems Max Mayfield is getting bored, or maybe he is missing his spot on the evening news, or maybe he just wants to say "I told you so!!", again. Whatever the case is, he is making even more ridiculous claims than he made last year and CNN was there to report it.

COTD: President Bush covers a favorite U2 song.

Rainy days, make me feel like...

But on the bright side, there have been no hurricanes, or even close calls. Natural gas is a pre-katrina levels. The ocean water temps are cooler than last year, prompting meteorologist to lower their preivious doom and gloom worst ever hurricane predictions to just gloomy almost as bad a last year predictions. So much for global warming and everything getting exponentially worse every year huh. In 1974 Time magazine wrote an article called "Another Ice Age" with remarkably similar tone to this year's frantic and dire report on the horrible effects and imminent deaths caused by "Global Warming". My thought is this will blow over and in a few years it will be "Aliens are coming to kill us all", maybe I will start preparing now for that one.

how spain deals with bank robbers

clip of the day!! from YouTube
How Spain deals with bank robbers...great video

Bonus video:
Guy showing off in his mustang wrecks...very funny

Clip of the Day!!
Brought to you by Google Video!
As hunting season nears, keep this scene in mind before you go and attempt to outsmart a large mouse with antlers, by hiding in a tree and using a supersonic rifle to kill it.

Bonus Clip:
Very awesome skater video...huge handrail grind

Mentos + Pepsi = Death...with video proof

Click this link to see the video!

Brilliant...That makes me feel safer

This is so outrageous it's almost not believable. Back in June, the Department of Homeland Security took CAIR...the Council on American-Islamic Relations, on a tour of security facilities at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. No, your eyes do not deceive you. That's exactly what they did.
More...

In other news: Secretary Of Defense Humiliated As U.S. Credit Card Rejected

Clip of the Day, brought to you by YouTube
Girl takes photo of herself everyday for 3 years...you see it all in 67 seconds...really kinda odd...but interesting, i guess.
The full 3 minute version is available here...just as cool, but longer
Bonus Video:
The evolution of dance: Hilarious...Sound required...6 minutes long

CNN...Fear Mongers...More from Jon Stewart

Man, this dude is so funny, I just can't help but post his videos. This is 4 minutes of hilarious commentary about CNN's TARGET:USA special reports.


And, in addition to this video, I am starting a new segment, a Column, or a "daily" if you will. It will be called "Clip of the Day" provide by YouTube. It will simply contain a link and synopsis of videos I find fun, interesting, contoversial, or whatever. Basically crap I want others to see. So watch them...'k.

Today's "Clip of the Day" brought to you by YouTube is:
3 minutes of the biggest, baddest, football hits ever.
Bonus Link:
Weightless dog, funny, and what happens at the end? ouch.

No Comment!!

Ok, I am shocked by the lack of intrest or initiative in the general blogging and blog reading crowd. I am very disappointed that the post of the last few weeks have gone largely un-commented. But maybe that's just the way our lazy and apathetic world has gone, you can die and as long as the posts keep coming no-one will even notice!

BTW...A link or shoutout on your blog or website is way better than a comment, so take no offense if that applies to you.

Terror in the sky...or not

click here to see why they terrorists could not have pulled off the terrorist act everyone claims they were planning. The chemistry just makes it implausible.
BTW...you don't have to be a chemist or a nerd to understand this, it's very simple and probably worth reading.

Mentos & Diet Coke!!

This is the craze du jour. Kids, Teens, and even adults everywhere are blowing 2 liter bottles over houses, and across their work parking lots. Looks like fun doesn't it.

Watch a video of 2 kids shooting a 2 liter rocket over their house!! Very cool. There is also a "how to" video on YouTube...look it up!!

Cherry for PSC

Ok, I know this is lame, but you gotta start somewhere.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vb6gHcF0WUg

Sorry. For the cheesyness, but it has to be done.
Watch at your own risk, you may feel dumber after!

word game

The Truth

This may be the real reason you can no longer take your cologne with you on a plane.

Or maybe not, but is it right that they get to keep our stuff and then sell it? We aren't talking about dangerous stuff here, fingernail clippers, give me a break. "Fly this plane into the White House or I'll give you a manicure?" Get real.

And check out this little tid bit the senate has passed to further restrict our rights as U.S. citizens.

Unbelievable

This is one of the most unbelievable things I have ever seen. How the Enron or World Com people get indicted but these Bayer people don't I just don't understand. If there was ever just cause for a government investigation it would be now. I am really in shock over the incredible allegations you will see in this video. The "good news" if you can call it that, is Bayer has already settled $600M in lawsuits, prior to this enormous class action filed earlier this month. Baxter Healthcare is also named in the suit. Maybe a record breaking verdict will bankrupt this murderous corporation and show the rest of these white collar criminals you will get caught. I hope the people responsible for these decisions spend the rest of their lives in jail...that's better than their victims recieved.


I found this video on Sharpening Iron

A New York Times article about Bayer

This article on the American Disaster Machine was also found there

Yummy!!

Where can I get this!!

And check out what Lew Rockwell has to say about the foiled terror plots.

World Trade Center

I got to go see the movie World Trade Center this morning. I thought it was very well done, and as advertised it was emotional. Kelly cried through most of the movie. The movie focuses on the entrapment of two Port Authority Police Officers and their struggle to survive after the towers collapse on them. It is definately worth checking out, and btw, if you go to AMC before noon, tickets are $4.

Check out this very sad 9/11 video if you haven't already.

New terror plot foiled....yeah right

How do you know its election time? The terror propaganda machine fires back up. Interesting how except for those few inept dorks in Miami, there has been almost no talk of attempted terrorism since the last election, but now with the pressure republicans are facing to hold control of congress its time for the scary terror alerts again. Over the next few months we will hear all about how they have done so much to keep us safe, but if we don't re-elect them we will all die horrible chemical weapon induced deaths. So watch out for all those scary terrorist and beware of rapidly changing color coded warning labels all over the bottom of your tv. It seems imminent that we will have a brief spike in the terror warning level just to remind us all how dangerous life is, and how unsafe we really are. Maybe they got that part right?

Traffic!!

Yeah...so I left work at like 3 in the morning and got slammed in traffic on 85 North. They were pacing traffic for 30 minute intervals overnight to allow the construction crew to set the new beams over 85 @ Old Norcross. So I exited and parked on Old Norcross, and hung out on the bridge for about an hour waiting for the next paced traffic break and the subsequential setting of a beam. I guess this makes me a pretty big dork, but I had to see what it was like to set these beams. I have to admit, it was kind of a let down...but at the same time, I guess it was a bit interesting. They had these big cranes on tracks so the truck drove up with the beams, it was attached to 2 cranes who then drove the beams into place. Anyway, I stayed up until after 4 am to see this, so I will try to remember it for a while.

My First Project!

I got to go see my first project today. It is a really small job on the 12th floor of the Hurt Building in downtown Atlanta. So after a week in training, I have been thrown into the fire. I guess we will see if I know anything now. It looks like it will be a fun little job. I get to be a trim carpenter for a minute because we have some 4 piece crown to remove and replace, and a few cabinets and a door to install as well. So, tomorrow night I will be jumping in with both feet. And yeah, I said night...I will be working night shifts in this building, which as far as I am concerned, is a good thing.

9 months

Nine months smoke free. Woohoo. Nearly 11,000 cigarettes not smoked. Nearly $1600 saved. That is sweet. So tell any smokers that you know that they stink and to quit. They will be better for it, although you will never be able to convince them.

Beer Geekdom

Check it out...Beer Geeks made CNN. The Alesnobs will rule the world. Rogue is one of my current favorite breweries.

Also, check out this website, dedicated to "Better Drinking"

More about Cork-Howard

Ok. I guess I haven't given all the details yet, so here goes. I am going to be a commercial superintendent. I believe that I will be working in the interiors side of the company, which basically means that I will not actually build the structures, but I will be finishing the interiors. We would do any necessary demolition to remove interior walls etc..., then build new walls or otherwise re-arrange and refinish the layout of the buildings interiors. Our company also does ground up construction, where the supers actually build the structures and do the interior build out as well. As a super, I will be responsible for maintaining timeline, scheduling, and oversight of the subs and our own employees who are onsite, and be available as well as capable to answer questions about the construction from the subs, owner reps, etc...Obviously this is a very basic outline, but I hope it gives you a little understanding.

Right now I am training, so I am working beside another super on his project. It is a nearly total interior renovation of a two floor building for GA Power. It is scheduled to be a 6 week project. I will basically be bouncing for several weeks working with different supers to get a feel for what they do and how they do it, then thrown to the wolves to get started on my own project.

My new Job, again!

Well, I got a new job. This one should be a real challenge and an interesting change of pace. The link above will take you to the company website, check it out. They really do some awesome work. And, I get a truck!! That is too cool!! Paid vacations, company cars, holidays, insurance...I could get used to this corporate sell out thing. Anyway, the days of HomeLife have gone, so hopefully I will be a bit more available these days. I got home at 3:30 today. That is sweet, but we start at 6am, that means I have to leave at 5. That really sucks, but what can you do? At least I get home early.

30 Days, continued

The hit TV show, "30 Days", aired the first episode of its new season Wednesday. On this episode, a "minute man" who himself was an immigrant from Cuba, went to live with a family of illegal aliens to see what it was like. The minute man, had legally come to America as a child with his parents. He took a hard line stand against people who entered illegally from Mexico, saying they should all go back and do it legitimately. After spending 30 days living with this family and traveling to Mexico to see where they came from, it is interesting to see what the minute man had to say. If you want to see it for yourself, let me know...

30 Days

The critically acclaimed tv show 30 Days is back!! Wednesday nights on FX at 10 pm Morgan Spurlock, (Supersize Me), will again unleash his brand of hard hitting facts that look uniquely into the predjudices of America. This is truly a series not to miss. Set up a season pass!!

War Videos

Ok, I have been incredibly hard on the president for his project in the middle east, but our troops deserve our support. They are fighting a war, and although I don't like it, these boys deserve the best we can offer. Obviously, I have been perusing the archives of YouTube. There are many, many more videos shot by our guys that have been posted. Some are extremely graphic, but all give a view of the war not shown on your local news. Below is a video shot by a soldier in Iraq, soundtrack by Evenescence.


Here is a tribute video to all vets

War on TERRORable Diseases!

Ok, this is a little crass and over the top but well worth the time. The points are all valid and just continue to prove the hypocracy of our presidential idiot. However, if you find political humor, especially that which may demean embryos, offensive, save yourself the frustration and dont push play. You have been warned.


More from Jon Stewart on stem cell research

Really funny, not political, corporate spoof thingy.

Cool Video

Check this out, this guy is good, and the music is a trip too!!

Idiot!

Well, our fearless leader, and bumbling idiot, President Bush has finally done it. He used his veto power to stop a bill for the first time since taking office 5 1/2 years ago. But was it to cut spending, to remove pork, or to end wars? Nope, this moron used it to stop stem cell research which scientists say could be a renewable source of replacement cells and tissues to treat Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, spinal cord injuries, diabetes, strokes, burns and more. So, way to go moron, you just continue to ruin lives at every turn.

Click here for the CNN article

Click here for "Bushisms"

Hummm???

Go check out the "Work Poop Survival Guide", if you dare.

I wish I could take credit for this, but I did steal it...still its very funny!

10,000 !!!!!!!!!!!!

10,000. Ten Thousand. That is a huge number. Think of it in dollars, $10,000...or maybe in hotdogs, (ok not in hotdogs, too gross) think of 10,000 ice cream bars! 10,000 is a lot no matter how you look at it. I have now not smoked 10,000 cigarettes. That rocks!!

I know, I said a few days ago i was not going to post much on here for a few days, then, I posted more than I had in months, sorry. But don't worry, you will be caught up in no time!

Any Difference?

Dont forget to check out the new website format here!

Ken Lay faked his death

This is a really great and highly anticipated news article. I found it on a friend's website since I am not quite nerdy enough to go find it myself, (I was too busy reading blonde jokes). Anyway, here is the link.
And dont forget to check out this blog too!

UUGGGHHH

HERE'S YOUR CRAP!!! I HATE THE food service industry in this town. Why is there such a lack of quality servers. Why don't any of them care about the service they provide. It drives me absolutely insane!!

A taste of hockey

Atlanta Thrashers prospect developement camp started last week. I have had the opportunity to go to a couple of sessions and see our first round pick Bryan Little and a few other teenage hotshots. It was pretty fun. On a more serious note, Abby's asthma has been acting up this week and she has been pretty close to taking a trip downtown, but fortunately we have been able to manage her with the rescue and quick relief meds. Hopefully hockey's return will motivate her to recover quickly!

New website format

Hey, be sure to check out the new format at NateQuit.

8 months!!

I haven't smoked for just over 8 months. That is way too cool. At this time last year I couldn't imagine going to the movies for 2 hours without a cigarette. Now, wow, 8 moths without. I love it. I have saved over $1400 and not smoked over 9600 cigarettes. Anyway...I am working to update my website, so I won't be posting much here for a few days, but I guess that is no surprise.

Nada

Sé su sido un rato ya que he escrito algo así que decidí que ya que no tengo nada para decir, yo lo diría en el español. Tal vez ahora usted entenderá exactamente que aburrido soy. Usted siempre podría tratar de escuchar al fútbol de la radio en el español, esto es bastante gracioso, sobre todo cuando usted no puede entender hasta que países ellos mandan a porque sus nombres son diferentes como en Inglaterra y Alemania.

No more hockey

Gwinnett lost in Game 5 last night to end their 05-06 season. It was a great year and we finished with an amazing record, as the American Conference Champs. Unfortunately Alaska won the Kelly Cup, but who cares, who likes Alaska. So we now have to spend the next 4 1/2 months without hockey. This could possibly be harder than not smoking.

GAME 5!!!

After going down 3-0 in the series, Gwinnett played like champions tonight to win 6-1 over the Alaska Aces. It was an absolutely beautiful game with well executed offense, as usual for Gwinnett, and a defense that was unbreakable, unlike the defense we have seen in recent games. It was a game to remember and keeps our hopes alive for another night.

New website

My website containing my rants, pics, and junk was lost, stolen or otherwise missing in action, so I had to get a new host and republish it all so I am terribly sorry if any of the previously posted links don't work. I will try to repair them all ASAP. However, here is the link to the new site. It contains all the same crap as before, plus, MY NEW RANT!! Check it out.

Here's your crap!

Ok, as requested here is the definition of "here's your crap" as it is inteded to be used by me, the creater and owner of the phrase.

9/11 movies

My personal opinion is that it is not too soon, and it is quite possible that these movies should have been released sooner. It seems people have forgotten how they felt that day, but to read what I think about that, you will need to view my new rant. However, I went and saw United 93 this weekend and thought it was a pretty good movie. It was probably a good representation of how a lot of things happened, but I don't see this film every being critically acclaimed or winning any major awards. Also coming soon, August 9, to be exact, is the Oliver Stone movie, "World Trade Center" starring Nicholas Cage. I am reserving judgement, but am afraid it will be more sappy and less accurate than the first 9/11 movie. Based strictly on a story telling, fictional account, and entertainment scale, this will probably be a much larger hit.


(btw...I had to use Internet Explorer to view this site, and yes i know how bad it sucks, but firefox wouldn't open it for me.)

6 month anniversary

I haven't smoked for over 6 months. That is pretty freakin cool. I have virtually no cravings anymore, but occosionally I will smell one and think it smells good!? How twisted is that? But who cares, I have been proven completely nuts before now, so a little more evidence doesn't really change things does it. We are still waiting to hear if Gwinnett will be playing Alaska or Fresno, they are going to game 7 Monday. At this rate it may be June before hockey is over, and that is fine with me.

Conference Champs!!!

Gwinnett Gladiators are the American Conference Champions and will be playing either Alaska or Fresno in the ECHL Championship series, the Kelly Cup, next week. That is so awesome. This is Gwinnett's first ever trip to the finals, so it is very exciting. Anyway, work is going well but the hours are quite long and I am tired, so I'm off to bed.

Hockey, of course!

The Glads won the first away game of the American Conference Championship Series in Toledo Friday night, to take the lead in the series 2-1 and ensuring they will have at least one more home game!!! It was a very ugly contest with some of the worst officiating ever, and even more obscene fans than those in Augusta (always considered to be the worst, until now). In the end however, it was Gwinnett who came out on top. Tonite, we play game 4, also in Toledo, where we hope to extend or current playoff record of winning every game we have played on the road. What an amazing feat. It is also Sunday, Mother's Day, so I need to get moving. More to come later.

A little bit of everything

I spent last week working in a new neighborhood. That was cool, the last one kinda sucked a little. This one is pretty sweet, but it is in south Fulton County, yuck. Anyway, thats going well. The Gladiators won game one of the American Conference Championship series against the Toledo Storm. It was a stressful game, but in the end we cam out on top. And finally, a big WELCOME HOME, to our friends the Groovers, who have been in Ethiopia for the past 2 weeks, training doctors and nurses in hopsice care, Aids stuff, and generally doing God's work in Africa. Much love and keep up the good work.

More Hockey!!

Gwinnett Gladiators won their first road game of this series to ensure at least one more home game this season. With the series tied at 1, Gwinnett faced a tough team in Florida and had to play 2 games in their arena. However, Gwinnett stepped up and and took the first game. With another win in Florida they will Be the division champs and have home games in the next series, the conference semi-finals. If Gwinnett loses in Florida monday they come back home for game 5 on Wednesday.

Hockey

Ugggg....Just when things were going so well we got killed by Florida, 7-3. It was horrible. But that's a bad place to start. The Gwinnett Gladiators crushed their division in the regular season leaving all the other teams well behind and clinching in February. They got a bye in the first round of playoffs and skipped directly to the semifinals where they soundly spanked South Carolina. Now we are in the division finals against Florida, with the best of 5 series tied at one, and heading to Florida for 2 games. Hopefully, we win steal them both down there, but if we split we come back here for game 5. Anyway, Its almost May and we are still talking hockey, that makes it a great season inmy book.

Hummm??? What to say?

The new job is going well, I guess. I haven't been fired. It is hard to go from being the boss to being the new guy, and lowest on the totem. I have learned a few things but for the most part I'm still just a grunt. Hopefully, I will learn what I need to be able to move up soon. That's all I really have to say right now. Here is a link to probably the saddest animated video I have ever seen. Check it out.

My New JOB!!

I started a new job this week. I am finished owning my own business, and have now gone to work for a builder. It is pretty cool so far, but I am really just starting to get into the mix. I made it through the whole no job, look for job, get and start job thing without really even thinking about smoking. I guess that is cool. I have saved over $900 and not smoked over 6000 cigarettes. Those are really insane numbers. I get a lot of exercise at work now. It seems like I am constantly walking. Maybe I will shed a few of these pounds I've been trying to get rid of. Who knows. Well, tomorrow is Easter, so I have to get ready for church and hockey playoffs. I will try to leave more infor about my job later.

Exercise Sucks

After gaining almost 30 LBS, since I quit smoking four months ago, I have decided it is time to start exercising. I started jogging yesterday, a short but hilly route, that nearly killed me. Just over halfway through, I felt like my lungs were going to explode and my legs were going to fall off. When we finally got back home, it was an hour before I could function again. Exersice sucks, but being a fat, out-of-shape, ex-smoker is worse. So I will give this exercise thing the effort I gave quitting, and maybe in four more months I will be a little skinnier, in better shape, and still and ex-smoker of course!

You Can Save Lives!!!

Follow this link to see how!!

More Bush Bashing!!

Really, it's just to easy. Lets see a quote by our fearless leader: "People don't need to worry about security. This deal wouldn't go forward if we were concerned about the security for the United States of America." — on the deal to hand over U.S. port security to a company operated by the United Arab Emirates, Washington, D.C., Feb. 23, 2006 - maybe he got one right!!

Here a couple of funny jokes.
Q: What's George Bush's position on Roe v. Wade?

A: He really doesn't care how people get out of New Orleans.

Q. What's the difference between the Vietnam War and the Iraq War?

A. George W. Bush had a plan to get out of the Vietnam War.

Q: How many Bush Administration officials does it take to screw in a light bulb?

A: None. There is nothing wrong with the light bulb; it's conditions are improving every day. Any reports of its lack of incandescence are delusional spin from the liberal media. That light bulb has served honorably, and anything you say undermines the lighting effect. Why do you hate freedom?

Read more of these jokes, bushisms, and funny cartoons here!

UUGGGHHH

Man, today sucked hard. I really don't have time to explain now, but I will soon. Look for my next rant.

NateQuit

NateQuit

Check it out!

We went to the Georgia Aquarium. Wow, what an awesome place. I would recommend it to everyone. Go check it out, it's well worth it. Click here to see the pics.

See what you can do with your lunch money

Check this out, you might like it.

Funny Bush bashing

this is just to good to miss. Check it out.

3 months...3500 cigs, $500

That is just insane. I have not smoked for nearly 3 months. I have now saved $500 and not smoked 3500 cigarettes. Those numbers really just blow me away. I love not smoking. I still can't believe how gross it smells. Why didn't it smell that bas when I was smoking? It never bothered me then. By the way, check out the rest of my rants if you haven't before.

Insane war...insane spending...insane president

This is insanity...
Why in the world are we wasting this kind of money when the best result we can hope for is civil war when we leave. With this money we could have FULLY FUNDED worldwide aids programs for 23 YEARS...We could have FULLY FUNDED Global anti hunger efforts for 9 YEARS. How is this war reasonable in light of those stats...What is more important...What Would JESUS DO??? Lets ask our President!!

I think I'm done here....for now

I really dont have anything new to say...I am still not smoking, never see myself smoking again, and have beat that, and several other dead horses for a while. So For the immediate future, I will not be posting anything new...at least not of any consequence. Thanks for supporting me while I was quitting. Later.

NateQuit...Signing off, for now.

Nate

New Years and 8 weeks

WOOOHOOOO, New Years Eve has come and gone. No smoking and no hangover. Tomorrow will be eight weeks without a cigarette. I have successfully quit. There is definately no going back now. I dont really see how people start back after quitting for substantial periods of time. I wont be. Happy New Year, and good luck with those resolutions. Why dont you stop smoking this year?

Christmas and 7 weeks!!!

Christmas has now come and gone, all 6 of them. It is almost like Chanukah, weeks of gift giving and celebration. But it is finally over, and after one more crazy new years weekend, we will finally be able to chill for a minute. So with all that said, I have been smober for over 7 weeks, saved over $300, and missed out on more than 2000 smoke breaks!! Woohoo for me!!

Help!!!!!

I am working now to name my new non-profit endeavour. The articles are about to be filed and everything is just days away from becoming offical, but I need a name. I have a few ideas, but please put in your 2 cents. Remember, it needs to be inspirational, clever, and / or convey what we are trying to do. Click here to read a couple of ideas about this project.

Or click here to read some funny Christmas Stuff

Six Weeks!!!

That is funny. Thanks to Kelly for sending that to me. This is not an invitation to send me a bunch of junk that you think is funny, but in this one case, I will allow it. On another note I have not smoked for six weeks. That is awesome. I am so happy that I have been given the strength and will to give up this nasty habit.

the first Christmas

ok, our first, for the year. Today was the first of six family christmas get togethers. This may seem a bit extreme, but it is pretty cool too. Being from a relatively small family, being part of one that is so big you have to meet 5 times to see everyone, it is definately something to experience. So today, a week before Christmas, it began. We celebrated with my wife's aunts and grandmother from her dad's side of the family. The were here from out of state, celebrating Kelly's brother's graduation from UGA, (GO Dawgs!), and so we began Christmas with them, while they were in town. Very cool.

Long time, no post

OK, I've gotten a little slack. Things have been really hectic at work, home, and everywhere else. I guess it's just that time of year. So, I will try to post more, and you will give me a break if I don't. I have some good stuff coming, trust me.

2 days without urges!!

I have had 2 days in a row without an urge to smoke. That is so cool. I really don't even think about cigarettes at all unless someone else near me is smoking, but even then I don't want one any more. I am a non smoker. That sounds like one of those things, I'm not sure what it's called, but something that is not possible. Not an oxymoron, because it is not contradictory, but just not possible. How can a person BE, a "non" anything. If you are you can't not be. So maybe I just dont smoke, but there is not such thing as a non-smoker, unless they are dead. But if they were cremated... well, anyway. So if people are smokers, then then people who don't smoke are "smarters"!! I don't know.

My Gladiator Birthday

We had an awesome time at the game. Gladiators won 6-3 over 1st place Columbia to take the lead in our division. Pascal Pelletier had 4 goals in the game, an amazing performance. It truly was a game not to miss.

If you missed it: Click here for Bubblewrap!!!

five weeks, my birthday, and hockey

well that kinda sums it up. It has been five weeks since I smoked. Tomorrow is my birthday (28), and I am going to celebrate at a hockey game. 'nuff said.

Hiking Sucks

Today, I went to the mountains with some guys from my church. We have been in a small group together, and to wrap up this study, all the men's small groups go climb a mountain and share some thoughts, and encourage each other. That part was pretty cool. It is the stupid climb that kills me. Why can't they give us four wheelers or something. Hiking sucks. The other guys, non-smokers, were huffing and puffing as bad as I was. Why do people voluntarily do this to themselves? I don't get it.

Shakespeare's Tavern

Last night, my Dad took us to Shakespeare's Tavern. It is a cool little theater in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. Although the dinner entres leave something to be desired, their beer selection is quite acceptable, and the deserts are amazing. The atmosphere and the play we saw, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" was fantastic. I would recommend it to anyone, interested in old world theater. What does this have to do with smoking, you may be wondering? Not a thing. Its my blog, and I will talk about whatever I want.

Click here to see a video of Christmas lights on crack, or maybe its meth, I dunno, but they are on something, probably the coolest light display ever.

A month...amazing

Its been a month since the last time I smoked. I keep having these really strange smoking dreams though. It's pretty strange, I like somehow, find myself smoking by accident in these dreams. I just light and smoke a cigarette then realize, halfway through it what is going on. Then I freak out, and wake up to realize it was all a dream. Really bizzare.
Go check out this link: Upgrade to Wife 1.0

And be sure to check out the rest of my cool links, they will not disappoint

The count....

28 days, 15 hours, 33 minutes, and 38, 39, 40 seconds without smoking, but who's counting. 1146 cigarettes NOT smoked. $172 SAVED. 3 days, 23 hours and 25 minutes of my Life Saved too. Wow, thats cool, but again, who's counting.

Almost 4 weeks

We are just hours away from the 4 week mark. Absolutly incredible. I must say that I am extremely proud of myself, but I know that it took more than just my own limited strength, but the power of God to help me, and keep me strong, even in the hardest of times. I don't think it would of shocked too many people if I started smoking again last week, and it was really tough, but God made it possible for me to stay tough. He promised us that He would never give us more than we could bear, but would give us the strength to endure. It does not always seem like we can bear these trials that are thrown our way, at least without cigarettes, but we CAN, and we will grow stronger for it.

On a lighter note, check out these funny cartoons.

Home from the hospital

Thank God we are finally home. My desire to smoke is lessening again. I will post more later, but I got to go play with Abby. By the way, dont forget to check out all the cool stuff on my linksite, if you have not done that recently. Just click here.

Hospitals suck too

I think I should start a blog called "Things that suck". I have really compiled quite a long list in the three weeks since I quit smoking. Don't be confused, I thought a lot of things sucked before too, but now... wow, it seems like more things suck than don't. Anyway, Abby is doing better, but still in the hospital. I can't wait to get her and Kelly back home. I'm still not smoking. And finally, something that SUCKS real bad, AIDS. Tomorrow is World Aids Day. Please take the time to learn more and find ways to help the kids in Africa, orphaned or infected by the thousands.

3 weeks

I made it 3 weeks. That is pretty awesome. Anyway, with all the hospital stuff it has been pretty stressful, but I am hanging in. I have also quit sleeping, but i think I am going to start back in a few minutes, just sleeping, not smoking. Time to go crash. Later.

Abby in hospital, continued

Yeah, I am making it all about me, but this is my website. It is all about her, on HER website! But man, stressful. Not smoking during this round of stress is tough. I mean it, you get through a holiday, several hockey games, and everything is looking good, then BAM, trip to the ER, followed closely by a trip to the Children's Hospital. Anyway, about 2 more hours and I will have not smoked for 3 weeks. WOOOHOOO.

Abby in hospital

Well, there is nothing like having a child in the hospital to make you want to smoke. I walked outside and someone else lit up, it smelled like fresh chocolate chip cookies. Anyway, she is doing better than she was yesterday, so we are getting moved out of ICU when they get a bed downstairs. Thats all for now, much love to CHOA for a great staff, and a computer room, and to everyone else for their love and support.

Black Friday

Today is black friday, and I went shopping, and I did not smoke. I did not even want to smoke. I love that. Anyway, I have not smoked over 740 cigarettes, and I have saved over $110. That is pretty awesome. I you have not already, check out the new and improved NateQuit website and all the fun stuff on it.

Thanksgiving Day Parades.....Suck

Ok, all parades suck, but they do keep the kids entertained for hours. I guess it should be pretty obvious at this point that I am thankful to not be a smoker. It is nice to be free from the bondage of nicotine. So get off you computer and go spend the day with your family, watch a parade, or football or something.

Still going, and going, and going

Hey, 2 weeks, 2 days, 8 hours, and no cigarettes, if anyone is counting. It really seems normal now. There are however, a few things I do out of habit; When leaving the house, I pat my front pocket to make sure I have smokes and a lighter, when I get out of my car, same thing. Sometimes when I get in the truck, I look for my cigarettes, I always kept a pack in the console, but it takes a second to realize that I am not a smoker anymore. What a cool statement.

This is too funny to ignore

sorry, you missed it.
click here to see it.

To change subjects, did you know that 67 countries have issued anti smoking postage stamps and that the U.S.A. is NOT one of them. check out Bophuthatswana's

and finally, a no smoking ad too controversial and insensitive for the USA, but apparently not for China.

Selfish Expectations

So I was thinking, "Why do so many people piss me off? Am I really that anti-social?" I was really trying to figure it out and that is when I realized, I spend a lot of time being frustrated by people just because they don't do things the way I want them to. It is almost never any real inconvienience, but here I am about to go nuts. So I think that I may have figured it out, a little. To read my rant, (or rave), click here.

2 WEEKS!!

In one hour, I will have not smoked for 2 weeks. That is crazy, well not crazy, thats cool. I have not idea what the future holds for my life, but I am sure that it does not include smoking. Two weeks ago, I could not imagine going a day without a cigarette. Going to the movies was a painful experience, or you missed 5-10 minutes in the middle. I have spent the last few years hating what I was doing to myself smoking, and even more afraid of quitting. It was scary, hard, impossible, or so it seemed. God gave me the courage to quit, the strength to stay strong, and the friends and support necessary to get through those first few days, and I am forever thankful.

Click here to see a couple of cute quit smoking videos.

I think I am nearly normal

It has been 12 1/2 days since the last time I poisoned myself. I should have almost none of the 4000 chemicals contained in cigarettes in my system. My brain is starting to level back out and I am not really as hyper as I was the first week. I was climbing the walls for a few days there, even onto the roof if you recall. Maybe I don't have ADD after all. So, I think I am nearly back to normal. My wife has started speaking to me again. That was a little risky at first, never knowing how I would respond, but assured it would not be pleasant. Now, I am the big softy you have always loved again.

What to say next?

I always thought I had a lot to say, but it appears that I am running out, at least for the topic of not smoking. I guess I still have a few more ideas but I dont really have the time to type them up just yet. Anyway, I will very soon post something new and interesting, but for now, just know that it is Day 11 and still not smoking!!! Woo Hoo. I quit.

10 days

I have not smoked for 10 days. That is pretty cool. I am still suffering from a few side effects, as well as 3-4 urges a day, but nothing major. Anyway, I am really busy this week, so I dont have a lot of time to sit here and whine. I will post more when I can.

More insane facts about smoking

Below are some links to WhyQuit.com's website. A couple may be humerous and some are disturbing. All are informative. Check it out.

Nicotine lies (the nicodemon)

Cigarette butts

smokers vow

My cigarette, my friend



these are just a few articles on Whyquit.com. There are many more worth reading. If you are trying to quit, or plan to, going here and doing research may do you some good.

Side effects suck

Eight days, wow. Not smoking is really getting easier now. I am, however, still battling side effects of quitting. It is amazing how many different symptoms and side effects there are. Sleep is still restless and fitfull, my throat has started to hurt, I was even nauseous the other day. According to the various web sites, all of these are normal, and many more. Cigarettes contain over 4000 different chemicals, each on affecting your body in some way. When all of these are removed from your body, especially at the same time, you are sure to go nuts. So, while I do not regret quitting, it sure seemed easier to smoke.

It's official...

It is now officially more than a week. It has really gotten pretty easy. I have 5-10 fairly strong urges a day, and a few more little ones. For the first time, I can see things from a non-smoker's point of view. Don't misunderstand me though, I still believe people should be allowed to smoke in privately owned businesses that wish to allow it, but I can now see why some non-smokers would not want to go to those places. The government telling a private business owner that he cannot smoke in his own store, or allow anyone else to either, is a flagrant overstepping of their constitutionally mandated powers, but that is for some other rant, on some other day. Anyway, I see now how bad these things stink, and how annoying or possibly offensive their smell can be to some people. So week one is in the bag. Not to go too 12 step on you or anything, but I am going to just keep on going, one day at a time, and next thing you know, it will be a month, year, lifetime.

ONE WEEK!!!

hey, I made 1 week. Ok, you gotta give me an hour, but I promise, I wont smoke in the next hour. So, I did it. Woohoo. I actually quit for a 6 days about 4 years ago, and almost a month once too. In fact, I have quit for a day or 2 several times, but never have I been as committed, or a successful, or as encouraged, as I am right now. I feel very confident that I will not smoke again, mostly because I cannot handle quitting again. Obviously, I am still pretty excited about this whole thing, but I will quit blabbing, for tonite anyway. Go check out the rants if you need more to read. but there is nothing new since Friday. Dont worry, I have many more things to say, I just have to type it up.

Not again!!

Sitting in Taco Mac, watching the Dawgs go down to Auburn by one point, as they kick a field goal with 6 seconds left on the clock, was not quite how I had planned to spend Saturday night. It started off well enough. We went to the Gladiators game, it was pretty good, a little exciting for a minute, but in the end Gwinnett won 3-1. The Thrashers won as well. So it seemed that everything, in my sports world, was going according to plan. Then the Dawgs got held to a field goal, with 3 1/2 minutes left, putting them up by 2, but they were unable to stop Auburn who nearly scored a TD, but fumbled on the 3 yard line. So Auburn has to settle for a field goal, giving them a 1 point lead, with only 6 seconds left. Just thinking about this again makes me want to smoke. The quitting is going well, nothing really new to report. Except that while sitting in the bar the stench from the smoke was pretty gross. Even my clothes reeked when I left. I never smelled like that before did I?

Day 6

It is Saturday, a day I usually sleep late, smoke a lot, and generally live like a slug on the couch. Well, not much has changed. I am still being as lazy as ever but I am not smoking, it really makes relaxing even better, since I dont have to get up. Anyway, the days are getting better and the cravings are fewer and weaker everytime. There are still a few triggers that really make me want to smoke but I am finding it fairly simple to just think through the urge knowing it will be gone in a minute. A friend of mine, who also just quit smoking, said he did not feel quite whole anymore, "like someone took away my security blanket". What a great comparison. I dont know why I feel like I need to smoke in all the circumstances I find myself wanting too, but I do feel like part of me is gone. I guess that is true, an unhealthy part, now I need something new, to make me feel whole again. Maybe an exercise plan, we'll see.

Hockey without smoking

It is completely possible to go to a hockey game, as an adult, while drinking a beer, and not smoke. Yes I proved that statement true tonite. Anyway, I had a great time, only thought about smoking a couple of times, and really got through the evening without any real cravings. So it was a very successful night as far as I was concerned. Of course, it probably did not hurt that we won the game 5-2. Also, check out my latest rant "Aid to Africa".

Hockey, and not smoking, possible?

Well, tonite will be my first hockey game without smoking, at least since I saw the Atlanta Knights with my Dad, and I was what 12? Anyway, I have decided that non smokers must be more patient than me. See, when I go somewhere, anywhere, and have to wait, I smoke. After ordering food, before getting the check, between periods at hockey, while my wife looks at purses or shoes. "Normal" people just patiently wait around for these thing to end, or happen or whatever, I smoke. Sometimes I smoke a lot. Why just sit around waiting on your food to get cooked, or the next period to start, go smoke, its something to do right. So now, without anything to do between periods, I guess I will be in the gift shop, looking at new ways to spend all this money I'm saving. Maybe I can get a jersey.

this really sucks

So it FRIDAY, and somehow the banks decided to close, on FRIDAY. What is that? Isn't it enough to be closed every other Monday, that now they feel the need to close on a Friday too. That's ridiculous, and bad for the economy as well. If the banks are closed on Friday and the don't process anything over the weekend, because God forbid, a banker can't be required to work weekends. So no one can get paid until Tuesday, that means bills are late, kids are hungry, beer sales at hockey games are down, its just bad all the way around. I get it, its veterans day, but why cant they have their day on a Sunday, like mothers, fathers, grandparents, or whatever. Or if they really need to feel extra special, give them a Monday, like presidents day, or MLK, and don't the Vets get memorial day already, or is that just for the ones who die, I cant remember. I'm not trying to be flippant, because for the most part, the people who serve our country deserve our respect, but on the flip side, its hard to feel good about someone who closes the bank on Friday.
Anyway, I still haven't smoked, but getting to the bank at 1:45 expecting to make a deposit on time, only to find out that they closed, sucks. And I still have a headache.

Click here, for more insane smoking facts, or here to view my rant, ect...

Now it is day 5

I feel pretty good this morning, but as I learned the last 2 days, that does not mean much. My urges are getting much easier to deal with, and stem mostly from the patterns of smoking, not a need to "de-stress". It is hard to talk on the phone, drive in traffic, and the worst is after meals, thats when you really need a smoke. I dont know why, its not like you wash down a burger with tar, but that is when I want to smoke the most. Anyway, I'm off to work, its Friday, so that is guaranteed to be stressful. At least this morning's traffic wont be bad.

Almost day 5

so, I cant sleep, I have a headache, I sweat more, I pee more (you know you cared), did I mention a headache. My doctor friend said you get 10-15% more oxygen when you quit smoking. Why aren't all non smokers dizzy all the time. Apparently, your body absorbs more caffine when you dont smoke. Again, I dont know why, or if thats even true, but I guess I cant lie in bed drinking cokes anymore. I know I am going to be happy about quitting soon, but right now, this is pretty miserable. I mean, driving in Atlanta sucked when I could smoke, now I drive, and cant smoke too, that is crap. Does anyone really know why they started smoking? I think it was just to be cool, well, maybe not so much to be cool, but everyone else was doing it, so why cant I? Check out my rant about this here.

my quitter poem

Ok, if you are reading this, and wondering where is the poem, YOU MISSED IT. Due to the length of the poem, and me, being kind of obsessed about keeping the blog neat, I have moved the poem to a new space. Check it out.

Day 4, continued

I feel sick. I hope it is just withdrawals, and not SARS, or bird flu, or whatever the latest pandemic paranoia is today. But for real, I feel nauseous, my head hurts again, and being regular, what is that? The urges, the boredom, the cravings that you think will kill you on day 1 are almost gone. I still want to smoke after meals and in traffic, but not like before. I guess now the physical side effects are coming on stronger. It sure does suck. For some reason everyone seems to be working overtime to STRESS ME OUT. Why cant people just be normal, I'm trying to not smoke, and these fools are going to have me on prozac soon. Uggg. I need a vacation.

Day 4

It is getting easier. I dont have my usual morning craving, a little urge, but nothing crazy. I do still have a headache, I think it may have to do more with kids than nicotine, not sure. My vision seems better, my balance is better, my mood, well, thats still up for debate. Anyway, I'm off to work, hopefully not a stressful day. It should be easier than the last one but there is nothing like a rush hour drive to make you want to smoke.

smoking stats, this is nuts

I haven't smoked for 70 hours. In that time 31,500 people have died from tobacco related causes. Is that just plain nuts. I have already saved $18 by not smoking, and increased my life span by 120-400 minutes, depending on the study. I have definately not wasted 500 minutes, at least not wasted it smoking, I may not necessarily have been productive with them either, but I wasn't killing myself. More crazy stats are available here.

To see how much money you have, or can save, time you can save, or cigarettes you have not smoked check this out.

More from Day 3

So, I have now let the cat out of the bag, no not the one from previous post, he is still in the garage, but the fact that I quit smoking. I guess now I am committed. If everyone I know, knows, it is going to be ugly if I was to start back. It is my opinion however, that this is all really mental, and maybe all drug addiction is, to a point. But for me, I get an urge every 10 minutes or so, except for when I'm typing, I may start a few more blogs. Anyway, the urge hits, and you simply tell yourself it will go away in 30-90 seconds, and it does. These urges get farther and farther apart, until eventually they are days or weeks or months apart. I cant wait for that. The physical aspects of quitting, have really been relatively light. I have had a headache, for 2 days, my vision is still doing funny stuff, and I get dizzy periodically, but I dont feel like my head is going to explode, or that I will die in some other crazy way if I dont get a fix. The rest of the physical, lack of sleep, bathroom problems, ect... are very small issues. I guess being irritable is a physical issue. My body is trying to get used to functioning on a different level, all this extra oxygen is a trip. Day 3 is almost half over and I am feeling much better about quitting. It doesn't suck quite as bad as it did monday.

Day 3

I still have a headache. I cant go to sleep, stay asleep, or wake up. I hate this. I just want to smoke. OK, really it is getting easier. The first day was the hardest. In my past experience, the 3rd day was the worst, but I have never tried to quit cold turkey before, I dont think. Maybe I did try, but did not even make it a day, not sure. Anyway, this is day 3 and it really is easier than I remember or expected. I still want to smoke, a lot, but I just keep telling myself that it is a mind game, and that my mind is stronger than a plant. I can do it. I still have a headache, funny vision, dizziness, ect...I was told that being dizzy is because my brain is not used to getting this much oxygen, I need some CO2. I read about quitting on web md, apparently it is good for you. I thought people quit because it was to cold to smoke outside, and no one will let you smoke inside anymore. Anyway, they say that the withdrawal symptoms will go away in 3-5 days, and urges to smoke will go away in a few MONTHS, jeez, this is crazy. I cant wait for the when I go a whole day without an urge. That will be cool. I really cant concentrate at all. My wife just found a cat at the park and brought it home, now I really need to smoke. My kids are crying because they can't keep it. I am so mean, they should have asked before I quit smoking. Then I would have said no nicely.

Day 2

It is nearly lunch time, I made it through the first day!! Today has been a little easier than yesterday. I made a quick trip in to work, nothing that I needed to do there, thank God, and now I am back home trying to decide how not to smoke today. I am trying to stay busy, I already cleaned my pond, I blew the leaves from the yard, there has to be more, no stressful things to do around here. If I could sit back and smoke for a sec, I could probably find all sorts of things to do. I have a headache. Withdrawals, no nicotine, uggg. I can't see very well, cant concentrate, focus, sit still, maybe I have ADD. They prescribe stmulants for that, maybe I have been self medicating with nicotine. We should see if we can get doctors to prescribe smoking instead of ritalin. If they did that, you can still be creative, and you wont kill yourself for years, instead of the months that we have seen on the ADD meds. I think its time to go clean the gutters.

Day 1, continued

Ok, not smoking at work sucks, especially when your co-workers smoke. I still took the smoke breaks, just didn't get the smoke. Its been like 8 1/2 hours, 2 meals, one rush hour commute, one typical Atlanta off peak ride, and a day at work. After breakfast, that was tough, but that was like 1 1/2 hours in, missing my after lunch smoke, that was painful. Trying to drive through Atlanta traffic without smoking, I just really don't know how anyone does that on a regular basis. I have been chewing on straws all day, it doesn't help much, but it is something to do.

DAY 1

monday, November 7, 7 am

I woke up, brushed my teeth, ect...(you dont want to know). Now I've been up for about 10 minutes, its time to SMOKE. I hate this already, but I'm really only 12 minutes into the whole quitting thing. Today, is going to be crap. I'm about to go to work, like who needs that when they are quitting smoking. Its time for another cigarette. UGGG. Get dressed, go to work, no smoking, does that mean I dont get all those breaks anymore? Its been like 30 minutes, and it sucks.

D-day

Sunday night, 11:30pm November 6,

I am about to smoke for the last time. Maybe I should smoke 2 or 3, just to make sure I'm ready. I have wanted to quit for a long time, and even quit for a week or so several times. This is it though. I am seriously ready to stop, cold turkey, no patches, no cutting back, no excuses. Just quitting. I refuse to smoke, at all, tomorrow, not even a puff. This is so going to SUCK. I just want to quit, I know its going to be hell. Oh well, thats it, last one's gone. Now its off to bed, and going to wake up a grumpy, non-smoker.