a tattoo, part two

Back in December I had my first tattoo done. I love the design and have received many random inquiries from strangers on both the design and who had done the work. (Levi at Super Genius on Pike St. in Seattle did the inking.)

A few days ago I went in for a touch up now that the design is settled. I wanted the outline of the top segment redone in a heavier line weight so it would show up more with the navy blue fill color.

I was a bit surprised at my experience: it was again a contemplative experience and not at all unpleasant. Does that mean I'm open to a little rough play? Perhaps.

I've been thinking about what design I'd like done next. I've wanting the soaring bird silouette designed by No Touching Ground, but I think I may hold off on that a bit longer. In the meantime, I'll probably get the letter "J" on the inside of my forearm or wrist. I'm not sure how to orient it though. I just don't know the protocol on placement when orientation is important.

Check this off my list @ 43 things

It took months for me to decide what I wanted for a first inking.

Although I am not big into astrology and the occult, the more I thought about my Mayan astrology sign, Blue Resonant Eagle, the more it felt right. Particularly the aspects of eagle (creativity & vision), hand (healer and helper), and worldbridger (building bridges between a magical world and reality). These are traits that others have attributed to me in school, in career, and in friendships.

My Western astrology sign, Scorpio, has never, ever felt right to me.

It hurt a bit but it was also surprisingly relaxing. I think I wandered into a meditative zone for a while.

I already have a design in mind for the next one.