Big Chop vs Long Term Transitioning?

Brace yourself for this video, because the difference in texture is beyond gnarly. When I first transitioned back in 2009, I lasted about 8 months and then big chopped in early 2010. At the time I was excited to get rid of my relaxed ends, but had NO CLUE how short my hair actually was. I have no desire to have hair that short again, so I've been toying around with the idea of long term transitioning and actually doing a healthy hair challenge.

*sigh*

I'm not one for a hair challenge. The idea just makes me instantly annoyed lol. It's weird, I know. But I've decided that I've tried so many things with my hair... I'm starting to wonder what it'd look like if I made a conscious effort to just simplify my routine and take care of it.

Just to have some balance, I'm not the type that goes OD caring about my hair while the rest of my body goes to shit. I've lost about 15 lbs since last year and since my body/health is progressing nicely, it feels only natural to bring my hair along for the ride.