OT: Tattoos

Sweet!

I have several tattoos, Most pre-surgery and 2 post-surgery. None have become or are misshapen at all. I have 2 on my chest, 2 on my legs and 2 on my arms and one on my hand.

About a month prior to surgery I got a tattoo of anchor to symbolize HOPE (Hebrews 6.19 says We have this hope as an anchor for the soul).  While searching for ideas I came across an image of an anchor with a heart.  The explanation of the tattoo is a cross for FAITH, anchor for HOPE, and heart for LOVE.  I thought this was pretty perfect for the journal I was about to start.  I had to have faith in myself and my surgeons, hope for my future, and the love of everyone in my life that supports me in order to make this journey a success.  Its not very big and its located on the inside of my ankle.  I talked to the tattoo artist about a good location because I was planning on losing a significant amount of weight.  We decided that the ankle was a good idea.  I will try to attach the link to the image that gave me this idea.  The anchor was my first tattoo but I'm already thinking about what I want next.  I've thought about the phoenix tattoo idea and also a lotus flower.  The lotus is a symbol of new beginnings.  

http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/2605051596663977 24_ZqCeZ8rj_c.jpg

Here is a pic of really great looking Phoenix.

http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608604478411/

I have a tramp stamp I got for my 2 year anniversary of a celtic butterfly.  I have gotten two more but they signify other things, since I have been at goal.  I love tats!

I am a tattoo virgin, but I am planning on getting one once I hit goal.  I have always been into drama when I was younger and loved the tragedy and comedy masks.  So, my tat is going to be of a tragedy and comedy mask with the saying "Done Crying, Smiling Now" with my surgery date. 

I am getting a dragon koi to symbolize a new beginning/rebirth when I hit goal, probably on my shoulder.

Dragon Koi
Dragon koi tattoo symbolizes overcoming obstacles, as koi fish travel up the Yellow river and once it reaches the end of the river it transforms into a dragon. Hence, overcoming adversity represented by the strong river to fulfill its own destiny and reaching its goal is another popular symbolization of koi tattoos. It is also seen as a symbol of strength and will, the will to go against odds to reach its destiny. A dragon is also a representation of power and ferocity, along with mystery and aura. It is also seen as re-birth, new start or beginning, more so after a divorce or bereavement signaling a new chapter in a strong-willed person's life. Thus it enables them to move on start afresh in life.
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/koi-tattoo-meaning.html

i have 14 tattoos and do plan on getting more i have come up with an idea to celebrate my journey will have to post pics when ever i get it done