First of all Many many many congrats, pats on the back and yahoos for quitting smoking - you are already on the way to doing the hardest thing.

I quit smoking many years ago and of course the weight gain ensued - I was a social, oral stimulation smoker more than a nicotine addict. Instead of eating, eating, eating, I would buy mini packs of raisins and eat them one at a time (about as long as a cigarette took) then go brush my teeth

I started walking about 4.5 years ago and walked slowly and not terribly far. The key was I did it everyday, amazing how fast endurance built up. Within 7 months I could do a slow run for 3 miles ! ! ! I was lucky to find a walking partner with a similar schedule - when she didn't want to go I did and vice versa so we always went. If I didn't have time for an hour walk I walked for as much time as I had. The key was we only missed 6 days in 7 months (that wasn't a goal it just happened) She has now moved but the exercise habit was engrained (I really miss her alot she was the best walking partner ever)

I started cycling 4 summers ago casually and more seriously last summer. I don't always feel like going so I'll say "I am just going to ride the trail a little ways and go slow" once I am out there it feels great and most of the time I go further.

As I told a dear friend who also has a hard time fitting any exercise in over all other responsibilities "Your health has to become the priority, the world will still function and other people can step up to the plate you don't need to do it all. Sometimes you need to be selfish in a good way"

Determine your priorities. Once you do that it is WAY easier to say no or I will help you later

Go Girl And keep us posted!

Eclectic