Quit smoking.

Happy first of November! If you are a smoker, now is the time to plan your participation in the Great American Smokeout. Statistics say that 85 percent of smokers want to quit. On November 17th, thousands of people will quit smoking for the day, and perhaps for the rest of their lives. Here's how you can be one of them:

* Plan your quit day by considering the answers to three questions:

• Why do I want to quit smoking?
  
• What method will I use to quit smoking?
  
• How will I stay smoke free?
  

While you think about the questions, consider the three steps to quitting:

• Deciding to quit. Why do you want to quit?
  
• Preparing to quit. What smoking cessation aids and supports will you use?
  
• Following through. How will you cope with cravings?
  

* Get help from friends family and professionals. Call the toll free Quitline (1-800-ACS-2345 or 1-866-228-4327 for TTY) for smoking cessation tips and counseling. For online help visit the American Cancer Society.

* Be a friend to someone who is trying to quit. The American cancer society offers numerous ways to help and be supportive.

Most people try five to seven times before they quit forever. So don't give up! Every day, even today, even right now, is a good time to stop smoking. Your body will thank you. Your wallet will thank you. Your family and friends will thank you. Best of all, you'll thank and be proud of yourself. You can stop smoking!

"We need quiet time to examine our lives openly and honestly... spending quiet time alone gives your mind an opportunity to renew itself and create order." - Susan Taylor