I realized that I needed to get off the couch and quit being so lacking in physical activity as I neared 50 years old. I got my old Puch outta the attic and started riding it again. At this time I was smoking about 1.5 packs a day and had been a smoker since high school. I was still smoking while on the bike...riding on the bike. This had to look pretty strange to others on the MUP. Something happened though, I rediscovered the joy of cycling. Before long anything I could do to enhance that experience was priority one. Cigarettes were dropped almost instantly after 32 years. No amount of spouse pleading, friends dying, patches, lozenges, or anything else had made me seriously have the desire to really distance myself from smoking. It took two wheels and the wind in what's left of my hair, to make me realize I was on to an alternative that wasn't only going to extend my life and health; but also one that I had been, and now was again in love with. Shortly after knowing in my own soul that this was for real this time...I bought a new bike. I found the bike that spoke to me, the bike that I couldn't get out of my head from the day I first laid eyes on it. It was beyond my budget, (way beyond), I justified it as an investment in my health, probably the last bike I'll ever own, cheaper than the inevitable hospital bills, and not having to deal with the regret of the one that got away. Call it a reward. I've been smoke free, (ok, I did slip a few times), for over a year now. Within 3 months, morning smoker's cough is gone. The wife likes kissing me again. I don't constantly worry about where the pack is, or did I leave one smoldering somewhere. I feel better physically, (which I didn't really expect). I can cope without having to light up to chill out. Life is gooder than it's been in quite some time. Starting cycling last fall, and building toward extended rides over the spring and early summer...I really can't wait for the start of the next pedaling season as a new revitalized and excited pair of cyclists. Like we were when we were dating; riding a pair of matching black Puchs.