I Got Inked!

I finally did it! After more than a year of wanting one, I got up the courage and support from my hubby to get a tattoo. I went to a place called "Seven Seas Tattoo". I was referred to the shop and the artist by my little brother, Andrew. Here are some pictures of the event:

Did it hurt? Yes! Was it worth it? Yes!

People have been surprised that it is as big as it is. I figured if I was going to get one, I wanted one that people could see, if I so choose.

Here is a copy of my MySpace blog explaining why I chose a hummingbird:

I love my tattoo. It's a hummingbird and some flowers (in case you can't tell). Why a hummingbird? Well, I could just say I think they're beautiful and that would be a good enough reason. Actually, there is more to it than that:

Hummingbirds have special meaning to me because I identify with their spirit and what they represent. Hummingbirds are tiny- anyone can see that. But did you know they are one of the bravest birds out there? They will take on birds much, much larger than themselves in order to protect themselves, their territory, and especially their babies.

Without going into too much detail (I really dislike pity), let me explain that my childhood years were not so great. Don't get me wrong... there is MUCH worse out there than I ever faced, but it was also far from ideal.

Basically, I was left by almost everyone who ever meant anything to me (except my Dad). I spent most of my childhood feeling like I was the only one I can trust. I was forced at an early age to be tough, independent, brave, and feisty.

I hold no grudges or bitterness. But I'm certain my experiences have shaped me into who I am today... and I like who I am.

So, when it came to choosing what I would have tattooed on my body, I chose the hummingbird because of its bravery, feistiness, and beauty.

While researching hummingbirds in my quest for the perfect tattoo, I learned that female hummingbirds are protective, nurturing mommies. This information only confirmed that this was the image for me! Being a Mom is the most important aspect of who I am. I want so much to be the best mom in the world for my boys. There was a time when I was afraid I wouldn't know how to be a mom. I'm far, far from perfect but by God's grace, being a good Mommy has come more naturally to me than I ever expected.

Finally, the hummingbird's small stature and brave spirit make me think of this verse from the Bible:

2 Timothy 1:7-- For God did not give us a spirit of timidity,
but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline.

While this verse is specifically referring to sharing Christ with others, I know God wants us to be courageous and strong in Him. The hummingbird is a perfect representation of this: Tiny and fragile by itself, but bold and courageous with God's strength.

The flowers are done in my boys' birthstone colors. Garnet/red for Nate. Diamond (shown in the light blue flower) for Andrew. The purple bud on top represents, well.. nothing. It was just there and Dan surprised me with the color purple. I'll have to make up a story for that one, I guess.

So, there it is! The story behind my tattoo. It hurt like &%$@ but I'm glad I did it!

Thanks to Dan at Seven Seas... you are awesome!