Inked

Back in May I got a new tattoo. I was going to get it when I turned 40 but I was still nursing Lucy. I was going to get it in the spring of last year after I finished nursing Lucy, but I found out I had cancer and had to wait. So finally I got it once I was well and had my strength back.

I got my first tattoo back in 1996, it's the Kanji symbol for dream. It is located on the inside of my leg just above my right ankle. As soon as I got the first one I wanted another, you know what they say once you get one you always want more. It took me a really long time to decide what my next tattoo would be. I finally found this image


in a history of tattooing book. I instantly knew this was it for a couple of reasons, one I liked the way it looked, but I also loved what it means.

It's called an ASO. The ASO is a symbol of the Dayak an indigenous people of Borneo. It is a mythical animal that is a hybrid dog and dragon, functioning as a protective image against malevolent spirits, and was used not only in tattoos but also on shields, baby carriers , and houses. When I first discovered it I loved what it stood for. Over the past couple of years after everything that has happened in my life its symbolism and meaning have become even more profound for me.

I did a lot of looking around to find the right tattoo shop and all the recommendations kept pointing me to Black And Blue Tattoo in San Francisco. It is a women owned and operated shop and the owner, Idexa , did my work. She is an amazing artist not to mention easy on the eyes. I decided to put it on my lower back and its tail goes down onto my butt a little. I sat for her for 2.5 hours and almost broke Marnie's finger a couple of times, but it was all worth it.

I am already trying to figure out what my next tattoo will be. It is really addicting.