Cherry Blossoms

Fathers Day was this past weekend and I decided to do something particularly special for my good old papa bear. 

Cherry blossoms symbolize mortality. 

Over a year ago, my dad became very sick. He has been suffering with Tuberculosis, osteoporosis and emphysema not to mention the black spots on his lungs that he is refusing to get checked out (and to top it all of he still smokes!). 

With my dad being as sick as he is and giving us all regular scares with his health, I thought that cherry blossoms would be quite fitting... for more reasons than one. 

I have been thinking about getting this tattoo for him since he first became ill.

Not only do cherry blossoms symbolize mortality, but they also symbolize how beautiful life is. 

These Chinese flowers bloom for 1 day and within those 24 hrs they become the most stunning flower; making the most of the short time they have in this world.

To me, that is exactly what my dad does. 

He is the most amazing man I know. He is beyond strong, stubborn as all hell and probably the funniest guy I have ever met. 

His determination and love for life is beyond admirable. 

So although my father was less than impressed with the new addition to my body, it was for him. 

My dad is my everything. 

My family, my love, my life.

I look up to him. I respect him.

I am proud to be his daughter. 

(please note that from all of the tats that I have... the foot is by far the most painful!!! But that being said, the pain is temporary... the tattoo is forever):

 This is how my tattoo parlor visitation went, it's hilarious because it is like watching a video... watching the pain slowly creep up!

 

 Oooo... felt that dude.

It was so worth it in the end. I absolutely love my new ink.

I never thought I'd get a tattoo with color in it purely because what happens if you get sick of the color? Or want to wear something with it that clashes with the color!? I still have no idea how I'll face that debacle but for now, it's busy healing up and I'm in love with it.

It is and probably always will be strange to know that this body art is with you for the rest of your life. While I was busy getting it done I was chatting to the artist about it and he actually had some amazing points to make.
People always say how permanent tattoos are and that they are scared of them but the truth is that tattoo's are the most temporary form of art! Once we pass on. that tattoo will be gone with us. It isn't like the Mona Lisa. You can't restore it thousands of years later or store away safely.

I've always lived with one simple thing in mind... your body is your canvas. It is an expression of who you are. Tattoos should be about the things that are the most important to you and your life - judgmental people who don't agree with them don't matter. It isn't for them. It is for you.

Be different. Be you. 

Never let someone else in life fan out your flame. Dance proudly on your short wick of life - vibrant and bright!

Have you guys got tattoos or are you planning to get any?

I'd love to hear what they mean to you.