"Arnold" > wrote in message
...
> For me the two are closely related, I smoke a hell of a lot more when
> drinking.
>
> I agree with the positive approach whereby you feel that you are not
giving
> up something, but more like convincing yourself that 'I don't want to
> smoke/drink anymore'. The problem is I love it. Although, I can see why
> people thing that smokers and drinkers are just nuts and I agree!
>
> I don't need a cigarette when on the phone, but I love spicy foods. Just
> out of interest, why did you mention spicy foods?
>

Arnold, I had to give up wine back in August when I was diagnosed with
diabetes. The meds I am on are incompatible and can cause a lot of harm
when mixed with alcohol. So it had to go. I love wine, always have. I
always enjoyed it in the evenings and it became too regular a habit. But it
was just a habit and not an addiction. You don't talk like an addict
because addicts simply cannot talk about it until the bottom out completely.
While I miss it I don't crave it. I've come to appreciate other beverages
such as Pelligrino water with a lemon slice. Also, tonic water and
cranberry juice. At a friend's birthday party recently I indulged in a
glass of chardonnay. And the funny thing was it didn't lead to more - I was
satisfied with the one glass.

So you can live without it and you'll probably be surprised how easily too.
I'd say tackle the alcohol first and then the smokes. One step at time.
Kicking the alcohol also makes weight control a whole lot easier so there
are clear benefits.

Paul