There are 3 strengths of patches, 21mg, 14mg and 7mg. I would try 14mg or step 2 first if you feel like you need a nicotine replacement aid. If you can go cold turkey, then by all means do it!
I personally finally figured out why everyone says N.O.P.E. or Not One Puff Ever, because although you may think 8 or 9 isn't that bad, it won't always be 8 or 9. It will grow to 10, 11, 13.... that is the nicotine monster and it's evil way of keeping us addicted. I have learned that during these last two weeks leading up to my quit day. I have kept track and have seen a slow increase to the amount I smoke in 24 hours. If you give it an inch, it WILL take a mile!
Stay close and if you feel the need to smoke, get on here or call a quit smoking hotline. There are a lot of them out there. 800-784-8669 or 800-QUIT-NOW is just one.
Good luck girl, you can do this!
Dian
