With every year that passes in middle age, thoughts of putting on a swimsuit can be daunting for men and women alike.   Since I turned 60 this January I was especially determined to get in my best shape ever for a planned  family vacation to Grand Cayman. (Good to have a specific goal!)  While Peter is not quite 60 yet, at 58 he was equally motivated.  After organizing our vacation photos to our computer, it was interesting to compare pics from exactly ten years ago.  You can certainly see the passing of youth, but you also see the results of hard work over time…

THEN; 2008 in St Maarten

NOW; 2018 in Grand Cayman     My suit top by Michael Kors, bottom by Vix.

THEN; 2008 in Aruba    Was I actually drinking a Pina Colada????

NOW; 2018, wearing the same Trina Turk bikini

THEN; 2008 in St Maarten

NOW; 2018  Swim trunks with skull and crossbones by JMcLaughlin

THEN; 2008

NOW; 2018   GRANDMA???

NOW: 2018   Wearing an elegant one piece for a change! By La Perla.

• In the pics from 2008 I did not exercise at all.  I was fairly careful with calorie consumption and seem lucky to be blessed with good genes. Over the following two years the pounds started to creep on and it was clear that I needed to make a change.  Joined a gym in 2010.
• In 2008 Peter would exercise (go for runs, lift weights at home), yet not routinely. Joining a gym together was good for both of us.
• In the earlier pics I was about 15lbs heavier, and Peter’s waist size was 2 inches larger.
• Exercise is now a routine for both of us; we go to the gym 6 days/week, generally at 5:30am (good to get it out of the way), for under an hour.

Since this recent trip was a family vacation, must close with a pic of our gang, all fitness devotees!  L to R: Peter, me, son Brad, son-in-law Tyler, daughter Hayley, 86 year old dad, grandchildren Henry and Emily.  🙂

THEN. NOW.  What about the FUTURE?  Ten years from now?  Oh boy…time will tell!