u/InterestingDelay7446

Gave it up for good 60 days ago. Heavy Smoker for 24+ years.

First week of physical symptoms were wild, couldn’t eat, chills and sweating, mood whipping around like mad. And weed isn’t supposed to be physically addictive … hmmm …

Around week three my moods stabilized and cravings dipped. I used an app to track withdrawal and naturally stopped tracking around then. So I consider that a marker for when things got easier.

Now where I am, good stuff:
I am much, much more present in life. I meet people on their level. No longer waiting around until I can get stoned again. I hated being reliant on that drug. Im so glad to be free.

More focused and confident at work.

I am engaging in my life goals so much more. Things feel like they are in my grasp. Or at least, a possibility, instead of a daydream.

I lost about 15 lbs (unexpected and healthy for my body). Guess I really was eating more than I realized.

The dreams! They never stop. It’s almost too much sometimes.

And the “bad” stuff:

I lost my coping mechanism when I quit. Everything I was avoiding is right in front of my face. I have to process and move through my feelings now. Some days I really, really struggle.

(I started therapy (EMDR) and am excited to make progress but it’s taxing. Still, I recommend)

Also, the boredom. it’s what is fueling me to do more in my life. But it’s uncomfortable. I clean, go on walks. Do whatever I am up for in the moment.

I look back at photos of myself and I see this inebriated person, eyes are glassy, puffy eyelids. It’s sad that I thought I was taking cool photos and now I just see addiction.

Mostly the “bad” is discomfort and struggling with depression. But I know it is really a sign that I have farther to go, more changes coming in my life.

I know my brain is still rebuilding and this past year was extremely tough for unrelated reasons, so it’s all hitting me now. Trying to be kind to myself.

I am really proud of myself and everyone here who is actively trying to quit and change.

>The fundraiser led by environmental organizations to buy land in Big Bear Valley to prevent construction of a planned housing project not far from the famous bald eagle nest for Jackie and Shadow is about halfway over but has so far raised roughly a quarter of its $10 million goal.

The backstory: Friends of Big Bear Valley and the San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust are trying to raise the money by the end of July to purchase more than 62 acres of land pegged for Moon Camp.

Why it matters: Some people say the project, slated to include 50 lots for custom homes and a marina with 55 boat slips, would harm rare plants and wildlife in the area. That includes the famous bald eagles, Jackie and Shadow, and their young eaglets Sandy and Luna, who nest less than a mile away.

Why now: The “Save Moon Camp” fundraiser, which officials have said is the most ambitious effort in Friends of Big Bear Valley history, has raised more than $2.5 million as of Wednesday.

What's next: If the groups don’t raise $10 million by July 31, Friends of Big Bear Valley has a backup plan.

Everywhere online, Alaska LNG ads follow me. Is there some kind of permitting happening soon, or why is there such a big push for this project right now? Isn't this something that has been pitched for decades at this point?