I’ve always been a night person, not a morning one. The early bird may get the worm, but this bird prefers the moonlight. I’m learning that quitting smoking isn’t about changing everything all at once — it’s about making the hard stuff easier, not harder. Jumping into early gym routines or major lifestyle overhauls overnight would just set me up for failure, and failure can lead right back to cigarettes.
I’m sharing my progress not to brag or prove something, but for support. Quitting is tough. Ten smoke-free days may not sound like much to some, but to me it’s a milestone — especially after years in sober livings and halfway houses, burning through two packs a day or more. I honestly didn’t think I could do it.
Mom has been incredibly supportive. She’s helping me fund my art and book projects and letting me stay here in a smoke-free home where I can save money and focus. The gym will come later. For now, I’m putting my energy into drawing and illustrating again — art therapy in the truest sense. It took a few days to get back into it, but it feels good.
Thyroid cancer wasn’t the worst kind of cancer, but it was a real scare — a wake-up call for all of us. Life feels shorter when you realize how fragile it is. So I’m being realistic: identifying triggers, taking deep breaths, avoiding smoking environments, and staying focused on creative work instead of cravings.
When I do get to the gym, I’ll probably start with yoga — though I’m not exactly limber and those sharp shoulder pains remind me to go slow. The truth is, even arguing with people can be a trigger. Frustration leads to stress, and stress leads to relapse. I’m not doing that dance anymore.
My goal is clear: quit smoking and reinvest that saved money into my art career — specifically, exhibiting my books. I’ve already been accepted to two out of three upcoming events. I also plan on applying for the Fullerton Street Fair again. Mom’s rooting for that one, but transportation is still an issue. After years of isolation and system living, rebuilding a support network is part of the process. I’m finding new friends, new allies, and new ways to get where I’m going — literally.
Progress doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and personal. I’m taking simple, realistic steps — the kind that lead forward, not back. Because no matter how many critics or cynics try to poke holes in your progress, you just keep moving. I don’t have time for negativity. I have art to make, lungs to heal, and goals to reach. Today I'm a nonsmoker and that is the first step towards anything else.
by Dan and Bonkers
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