Hi Bill,
  
 I see Joel has given you very sound advice. The best time is when it is YOUR time to quit.  Sounds like you're there.
  
 I can only speak credibly to my own experience.  
  
 Almost 11 months ago I was like you - late 40's, a long time smoker (since age 9) and wanting to quit soon.  Just didn't know how.
  
 I did not have time to set a day.  I began reading at WhyQuit.com and then FreedomFromTobaccoQuitSmokingNow on January 9th.  I read for hours.  I read until I understood about why I smoked, why I was addicted, how I could break free in 72 hours and how I could learn to live & stay free by Never allowing nicotine into my body again.  
  
 I wrote this message about a week ago at Freedom about that particular 'fork in the road'.  Maybe it will help. Message 7   
 All I know Bill is that if I could so can you.  Anbody can.  It's a wonderful journey and it begins with a single step in the right direction.  Yes YOU can!
  
 Joe