Reflections on a healthy lifestyle

It's all because of your mentor group, right???

My journey is different from most on here. I hated cardio(I do like playing pick-up basketball games) and saw no use in running, would occasionally do 20 min. on the treadmill at a fast walk after lifting.
I have always been in shape and athletic and started competitive powerlifting in 1999. I did that up until 2007. I started competing in strongman also in 2002 and did that until 2007. Having had a very successful run at both sports, I was looking for something different to do. In 2007 & 2008 I did our local stair race, up 40 floors, 870 stairs. This was WAY out of my comfort zone as my body type is a weightlifter, but I made it.
I had always said that if I hadn't gotten into the lifting competitions, I would have loved to do triathlons. Sooooo, after my son did a sprint last year, I decided I would do one. I still lift heavy(which is taking a beating with all the swimming, biking & running I am now doing) but have really enjoyed the change. I don't know how long I will do them but for now, they have my interest.
I have eaten a very strict diet ever since I started competing in powerlifting/strongman so weight/nutrition has never been a problem. I am just always looking for new challenges and things to do.
Gotta live everyday to the fullest.

I am also one who thinks it is amazing that I will leave the house in matching spandex clothes and accessories, usually in bright colors (LUNA Chix team)....that I get up early to work out, don't drink much, choose to spend weekends training and racing, and my free time doing tri-related stuff with other triathletes ....the only-wears-black-leather and stays up all night partying gal from years past would pass out if she saw me now.  I do tend to wear black, still....when not in tri clothes.     And yes, I do have a black tri suit. 

My friends 'who knew me then' are more than a little annoyed with my level of involvement in a healthy lifestyle.  I've had to cut down on my relationships with them, as well as write a lot less on facebook about triathlon stuff.  Fortunately, my closest friends tolerate my obsession.

I've lost weight, increased stamina and all that...doing my first HIM this September.....and I get to be a good example to my kids.  I love when people tell me that I am their inspiration for adopting healthy habits, whatever they are choosing to.  I hear that a lot, and that always makes my day!