A Moment Of Pride & Three Things Tuesday

Before I get to my Three Things Tuesday, I have to give myself a pat on the back…

…I have been completely smoke-free for one year–> not one cigarette!!!! 

I began smoking very young (I had a super cool boyfriend who smoked so I jumped on the stupidity bandwagon) and even though I had tried to quit many times in the past, it was always for someone else.  In late 2007, I couldn’t take it anymore and made the decision to quit.  This was right around the time I started to get healthy, and running while smoking just wasn’t working (duh, right?!?).  But making the decision and the actual act of quitting are two different things.  I took very small steps…slowly reducing the amount I was smoking until I felt ready.  In March of 2008 I “quit”.  I put that in quotes becuase, while I did okay, I still smoked if I went out with my friends who also smoked.  It wasn’t often, but the point was to stop completely and I hadn’t.  I knew I could not continue in the sports of running and triathlon unless I quit for good.  And I knew I was a phony if I was promoting healthy living while secretly smoking.  So in January 2009, I quit 100% and for good.  And it was the best decision I ever made.  Obviously, my health and my work-outs improved greatly but my whole life has changed too.  I know “never to say never” but honestly, I never see myself smoking ever again!!!!

(I thought long and hard before writing this, because honestly, the fact that I was a smoker is not something I am proud of.  In fact, because I hid it from most people in my life, I really can’t celebrate it with the excitement I feel at this huge accomplishment.  Thank you for letting me share it with all of you!)

Honestly, after writing that, I am not feeling very wordy and/or creative.  Therefore, instead of trying to come up with something witty and genius and failing, I am just going to point you in the direction of some great websites.   

Cake Wrecks- Sometimes, these cakes are so ridiculous, I find myself cracking up at my desk.  And I mean the kind of loud-cant-stop-belly laughing.  Seriously…do not look at this website at work if you aren’t allowed to be on other sites.  You will laugh out loud.

Wise Bread- This site is awesome, especially for those looking to save money.  And who isn’t looking to save money, right?  It is full of advice on how to save, including tips on the best days/times to shop at specific stores.  And they also have a page totally dedicated to deals and coupons! 

Post Secret- This site has gotten pretty popular in the last year or so but I still love it.  It started as one guy collecting postcards from people with their secrets on them.  Now he travels doing speaking events and he has published a few books.  I have been tyring to see one of his events for over two years but he sells out quick.