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The non-smoking section

I used to think the perfect compliment to a cocktail was a cigarette. In fact, I remember saying "if I have a drink in one hand, I need a cigarette in the other or I'll tip over." Of course, after about 4 drinks I'd get a little wobbly anyway. But, that's beside the point. I was a smoker. (Although, I only bought my own pack every now and then. Yeah, I was that girl.) But then a wonderful thing happened. Austin passed a law that said "no more smoking inside."

At the time, a lot of folks were quite upset. How were we supposed to enjoy our drinks? Our concerts? I was among these people and had the attitude that you should be able to do whatever you want to do. But then Winter set in. How quickly we adapt. I refused to be part of a community that stood huddled in single-digit temperatures all in the name of a nicotine fix. Plus, for the first time in years we weren't coming home from a night out smelling like an ashtray. It was nice. So, out of sight, out of mind. I quit. (and so did a lot of my friends) And haven't looked back.

Recently, I have again found myself amidst a group of friends that are full-time smokers. The laws seem to be the same here in Canada. They too have to go outside and brave the weather. And, the cigarettes (like everything else) are pricier in Frosty North. It got me to thinking... Do they really enjoy it that much? Canada winters and Austin winters are two completely different things. You'd have to love it to stand in the cold 6 months out of the year. Right?!

Moving here has only secured my non-smoking status. "I'll be inside, thanks." And should I forget any the many reasons that I quit, all I have to do is pick up a pack of Canadian cigarettes. Their Surgeon General (or equivalent) uses scare tactics that would rival any American stratagem. Each pack is embellished with a graphic warning against the dangers of smoking. It can be a little gross, honestly. That's enough for me.


Smoking is one of the leading causes of statistics. -Author Unknown
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