All of those mentioned above are true for me too. One thing I have noticed is the way my girls look at me.
I have always been an athlete but within the last four years my priorities have changed.
I am now a mother to two girls. The athlete side of me has taken a backseat, three pregnancys in four years. (miscarried) I am finally getting "myself" back and that important for my girls to see.
I love the way my daughter looks at me as I get ready for a ride "going for a ride Mom?" She beams and can't wait until she can join me. I love telling her stories of the wildlife and things I see while out on the road.

It is a lifestyle that I think is important to pass on to her and her sister. I think they see that getting out and excercising makes you feel better and happier.
My 3 1/2 year old has her first road run this sunday... its only 240 yds but she got a t-shirt and a race number. She is so proud and ready to pin that number on Sunday morning. I can hardly wait!
Those are the changes that make it so worth it!