The Ironman Tattoo!

So I have wanted a tattoo since I was a teenager but opted out for several reasons

1. I acknowledged that I was very young and even though I was in love with vampires, horses and some guy named Chris and thought I might be forever...maybe I shouldn't risk the teen angst tattoo and regret it later.

2 All my friends had them and abstaining from a tattoo was my form of rebellion.

3. Hello..they hurt!


I grew up, fell out of love with Chris, although I still like vampires and horses :)
and the desire for a tattoo was still there. The timing was never right and I never really latched onto what I wanted. Got married, 5 kids later and the desire was still there...I toyed around with some designs but nothing seemed just right.

In 2005 I lost a bunch of weight, found triathlon and was blown away by how passionate I am for the sport. Triathlon came to me when I was at a pretty low point. It bought me through to where I am today. I am in the best shape I have ever been, I have kids who are excited to be active with me and I have accomplished things that I never thought possible. I went into Ironman season not knowing at all of I could even finish, let alone enjoy the experience. I came out the other side feeling like I can now accomplish anything.

So many people do the Ironman and rush right out for the tattoo. I thought..ok..now is my chance..I think this is it. The tattoo makes me feel strong and happy and reminds me of what I have done and what I can do.

It may not be for everyone but as my husband says..it really suits you.

I did a lot of sketching and combining art pieces to get it just right. I went to Slave to the Needle on Sunday and 3 hours later I walked away with a permanent reminder of the fact that I am strong and happy