Inked
What is it that draw so many to tattoo parlours? I have asked myself that very question on a number of occasions. In addition to the clothing one wears,tattoos are an ultimate and very personal form of self- expression. When I got my second tattoo in the Spring of 2016, I thought I would have been content with the Pearl Jam lyric and butterflies on my right arm. Nope! Some people acquire fancy cars when they hit a mid-life crisis age. Aside from books, bling, and shoes, I crave more ink. I guess it’s like the old adage with potato chips: “Betcha can’t have just one!”
I love the atmosphere of the tattoo parlour I go to. “Darkside Tattoos” is, as the name suggests, a darker space with pink walls and art as far as the eye can see. Every time I schedule a tattoo appointment, it gives me a little jolt of excitement. What’s not to look forward to? Yes, the pain is there but it’s only temporary. The adrenaline coursing through my veins, the appearance of the initial transfer against my skin, heavy metal pumping through the speakers, the sting of disinfectant to my senses, I look forward to the moment when I’m under the gun. I absolutely love the work Scott, my tattoo guy, does. He’s a pretty chill individual with a passion for art that certainly comes through when conversing with him.
I currently have four tattoos but wish to have about a half dozen or so more. I love tattoos that have significance for the wearer. I do not wish to get the latest fad. I do not want to acquire a “tramp stamp” as it is jokingly called on my lower back. Heaven knows I no longer have the physique for one of those! And I cannot help but feel thankful that my twenty-year-old self did not get that ring of daisies around her belly button. Yes, it would have looked awesome when I was no bigger than my 15 year old daughter but after two children and numerous weight fluctuations through the years, it’d be a rather sad looking and withered mess now.
Many argue that it is unprofessional for professionals to have tattoos. I beg to differ. When I glance down at my right foot, I see the little rainbow crown and a quote from a favourite author that will always serve as a reminder to take a stand for what I believe in. My first tattoo on the side of my left calf reminds me of how badly I need a cover-up done. LOL! The tattoo on my right arm reaffirms how quickly thoughts of lost loved ones come to mind. It also links me to my love for writing. Finally, when I glance down at the inner part of my left wrist, I see my roots. My maiden name in my Father’s hand and the dandelion with the seeds aloft reflect the undying love he felt for his family.
Tattoos, like scars, tell stories. Every single one is unique to the wearer. I can’t wait to see what future stories will be told on the pale and freckled canvas that is my skin.
I love the atmosphere of the tattoo parlour I go to. “Darkside Tattoos” is, as the name suggests, a darker space with pink walls and art as far as the eye can see. Every time I schedule a tattoo appointment, it gives me a little jolt of excitement. What’s not to look forward to? Yes, the pain is there but it’s only temporary. The adrenaline coursing through my veins, the appearance of the initial transfer against my skin, heavy metal pumping through the speakers, the sting of disinfectant to my senses, I look forward to the moment when I’m under the gun. I absolutely love the work Scott, my tattoo guy, does. He’s a pretty chill individual with a passion for art that certainly comes through when conversing with him.
I currently have four tattoos but wish to have about a half dozen or so more. I love tattoos that have significance for the wearer. I do not wish to get the latest fad. I do not want to acquire a “tramp stamp” as it is jokingly called on my lower back. Heaven knows I no longer have the physique for one of those! And I cannot help but feel thankful that my twenty-year-old self did not get that ring of daisies around her belly button. Yes, it would have looked awesome when I was no bigger than my 15 year old daughter but after two children and numerous weight fluctuations through the years, it’d be a rather sad looking and withered mess now.
Many argue that it is unprofessional for professionals to have tattoos. I beg to differ. When I glance down at my right foot, I see the little rainbow crown and a quote from a favourite author that will always serve as a reminder to take a stand for what I believe in. My first tattoo on the side of my left calf reminds me of how badly I need a cover-up done. LOL! The tattoo on my right arm reaffirms how quickly thoughts of lost loved ones come to mind. It also links me to my love for writing. Finally, when I glance down at the inner part of my left wrist, I see my roots. My maiden name in my Father’s hand and the dandelion with the seeds aloft reflect the undying love he felt for his family.
Tattoos, like scars, tell stories. Every single one is unique to the wearer. I can’t wait to see what future stories will be told on the pale and freckled canvas that is my skin.
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