Kona check! Sub 3 hour check!... so now what

In many ways my husband and I are very similar, but in regards to being content verses pursuing happiness, we couldn't be more different. I can find things that make me smile every day: breaking bread with friends, quality time with Bryan, a beautiful day, etc.  There are only two times when I have witnessed my husband express joy: when he qualified for Kona and when we got married.

In the early stages of our relationship I asked him to promise me that triathlons would only be a part of our life not our whole life.  I was a sucker and I believed him!  70.3 fights and several throw downs later, we finally found a good rhythm.

As I sat back and observed the world of triathlon, I notice that for many it could be all consuming.  I understand that in order to achieve great things we need to be dedicated, but being consumed by anything has negative consequences.  For a period of time all is good, but then sleep declines, relationships deteriorate, and the fun stops.  Look at the track record of professional triathlete relationships: Mark Allen & Julie Moss, Peter Reid & Lori Bowden, Luke McKenzie & Amanda Balding and so many others.



During the initial stages of our relationship I would, and continue to, challenge my husband with a variety of questions. Why are you doing triathlon? Is this a job or a hobby? When will it be enough? Will you be satisfied when you get to Kona?  How do we make triathlons an on going part of our lives?  Finishing an Ironman is an amazing achievement.  However, being a great spouse, sibling, parent, coworker, or friend is also an amazing achievement.

Over time I realized that I wanted someone I can enjoy life with and be in a place where we are both happy.  I do not want an over-worked, tired, cranky person that squeezes me into their schedule.  Maybe my husband just wanted a full time, free Sherpa when he married me but, "for better or worse", he got so much more and I know he appreciates it :)

On wards and Up wards,
Tiffany