I started smoking clove cigarettes in 1995-6. I quit smoking when I joined the military in March, 1996, but started up again three months later during my 9 month Ground Radio Technical School. I quit smoking again in 1997 when I found I was pregnant. I became very stressed during my separation from my husband, and began smoking again in July, 1999. I continued smoking (Marlboro Light 100s) until 5AUG2010. I always enjoyed smoking and had never intended to quit. A friend at work had purchased one of the small e-cigs from the mall and I was intrigued. I began researching in July of 2010 and found an ecig online that I thought was good. I continued to do research, about fluid, nicotine and batteries, and later upgraded to a larger battery, and VG based fluid. The larger battery helped with my hour long commute. I will re-iterate – I never intended to quit smoking. But the more I used the electronic cigarette, the more the regular cigarettes hurt my throat, and gave me headaches. My sense of smell and taste returned quickly, and my lungs hurt less and less every day. I could climb three flights of stairs without losing my breath! My hair, clothing and car no longer smell bad, and my teenage daughter doesn’t cringe or complain when she hugs me. Because I hadn’t intended on quitting, I never tried other alternatives. Although, I was berated and verbally abused by multiple military doctors and dentists to try other things. My dentist now loves my butterscotch scent and compliments my teeth. I continue to research batteries, for longevity and safety. I make my own VG based fluid, and purchase my nicotine-base from online retailers. I enjoy vaping and hope to be able to continue using this alternative for a very long time.