Who’s Susan?

My name’s Susan Morris. I work in health communication at the Trust. I’m also a smoker. Have been for 35 years. And I’d really like to quit. Actually, I promised my family I’d quit by the time I was 40. Well, I’m (gulp!) 51 and still puffing away.

What I like

• My husband, Jeff, who’s very patient and supportive of my wild ideas–including this blog. He’ll be a big help as I quit, if he doesn’t give me excuses like, “Oh darlin,’ it’s understandable that you want a cigarette after the day you had.” Jeff quit smoking about 13 years ago, and he’s been far too tolerant of my smoking habit.
• My four kids and five grandchildren. (The grandparent thing is very cool.) I know I set a bad example by smoking.
• Painting, drawing, gardening, writing, reading, traveling, history, and genealogy. Of course, probably much like you, I definitely don’t have enough time to do all these things.
• My highly creative, politically active friends. (Unfortunately, many still smoke.)
• Balmy weather, most bodies of water, and France.
• Every once and a while, I really, really enjoy a cigarette.

What I don’t like

• My smoking addiction.
• Winter.
• My weight.
• Any form of exercise except gardening and swimming–not exactly year-round activities in Wisconsin.
• Intolerant, judgemental people. I work really hard to fight these traits in myself.