MOMania

By Teacher's Kid

September 15, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

One word: NO! While I’ve seen some tastefully done body art, I do not want my grandchildren asking, “Granny, show me your tattoo.” Let’s face it, things start sagging and bagging later on, no matter how much exercise you do or how well you eat.

While I was stationed in San Diego, I saw a girl who must’ve been a day over 18 who was sporting a sun tattoo on her abdomen near her belly button. My guess is that she didn’t think about the fact that when/if she decides to have children, that sun is going to supernova and then set.

Food for thought.

By H

September 15, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

I am a mother of 2 and have 3 tattoos. The first one was done prior to having kids, but the other 2 are within the past couple of years. My kids have made comments about mom’s pictures…at first my youngest thought they were stickers. Two of three of my tats are not visible with regular office attire (I’m a 9-5’r in an office). The one on my ankle is usually scene in the summer w/capri’s and such.

I don’t see a problem with tattoos. My mom (age 53) has 3 and she has just gotten those in the past 5 years as well (and her nose pierced in the past year).

Once they are a bit older, and ask, I’ll talk to them about tattoos. I just know that come 18…I can’t complain if they decide to get one!

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

Neither I nor my husband have tatoos, and none of our 3 young adult kids have them. But I do have a nephew with one and he has some piercings, too. That’s my sister’s problem, not mine! When I was growing up the only Americans I knew who tattooed themsleves were sailors, bikers, and sideshow freaks. So, it looks trashy and freaky to me. I have discouraged my kids from tattooing mainly from a health perspective. I am not going to introduce a permanent dye of unkown chemical make-up under my skin that may cause cancer years later, and that’s what I told them. But if y’all want to tattoo, then that is your decision, and it is more widely accepted today.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

I guess it is a personal choice, but have you ever seen prom pictures and wedding pictures where everything was just gorgeous, except the tattoos showing? I have to laugh everytimes I see them. Ladies you can’t be elegant and have tattoos. Its either or

By HoosierPeach

September 15, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

I have a tattoo, it’s on my thigh, so no one can see it. I plan on getting another, on my back. My son is only two, so it isn’t an issue now, but I consider tattoos to be art. If he asks, I will tell him they are tattoos and why I got them, and that if he wants to get one, he can decide to do that at 18. I will also counsel him on not getting tattoos of cartoon characters, expletives, etc. I am a 31 year old professional and if you met me, you would never guess I have one. My attitude stems from the fact that for my generation, tattoos are not an issue.

By scv

September 15, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

I’m the mother of a 3yr old and a baby on the way. I got my 1 tattoo when I was finishing my senior year of college. A group of us on our athletic team vowed to get at tattoo of our school symbol if we made it so far in our NCAA tournament. Its probably not much bigger than a quarter and inside above the ankle, but noticable enough at the pool, etc. For my high profile corporate job I wore pants and long skirt suits. I am curious to see if my kids will make a big deal out of it once they are old enough to know what it really is and if they are wanting one of their own. For me, I was officially on my own after graduation and pd for it with my dime, so I don’t feel my parents should have any say at that time (though they gave me a lot of grief about it and my father’s dematologist friend offered to take it off for free). So that is the angle I will probably take with my kids. Interestly enough, last year my 58 yr old mother (church deacon, hard core conservative, etc) and 7 of her friends had a tattoo party where they had someone come to her house and they all got one. Hers is HUGE and on her shoulder…tsk tsk!

By JW

September 15, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

Like it or not in the real world we are all judged by decisions we make that affect our daily lives. In corporate America having a visable tattoo could mean the kiss of death for a potential career; trust me I know…I am in corporate Amercia and I know what goes on in the work place. The rejection letter you received or the promotion you feel you deserve may not be beacuse you are not ostensibly qualified for the job, but rather a result of someone perceiving you as a person that makes quick and potentially not too thought out decisions that reflects poor judegment on your part. We live in a world of double standards and many people still look at women with tattoos as being low brow, trashy. If you work in a porn store, paint your skin and pierce it like a pin cushion. However, we won’t be seeing you in high octane six figure a year job.

By Kerry

September 15, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

My husband has 5 tattoos and I don’t have any. All of his are on his arms and one on his chest, but they are high enough that you can’t see them when he wears a short sleeve shirt. I’ve always wanted one, but I’ve never been able to come up with anything that I would be comfortable having on my body for the rest of my life. I do agree that they can look trashy (it doesn’t look pretty to be all made up for your wedding and have this huge black drawing protruding from a beautiful gown). I’ve thought about getting something that could symbolize my daughter, but it would be small and not visable to everyone. I don’t have a problem with tattoos though.

By Sarah

September 15, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this

Tattoo’s are the same as having ” Trash” written on your forehead.

By fk

September 15, 2006 09:16 AM | Link to this

Past50mom,

You made me smile already this a.m. My mom has always said the same thing about the type of people who got tattoos in years past.

Two of my nieces have tattoos as well as a nephew. Both of my nieces’ tattoos are not even colorful…one is just black, and the other is black and white. Their mothers were horrified. My brother, 55, has gotten a tattoo in recent years. His is the Marine saying, but he got the tattoo 30 years after his service. Another niece had her tongue pierced and wound up getting very sick. She had an ongoing infection that was treated by antibiotics for several months. It did not go away until the thingy was removed from her tongue. Gross.

Recently, I was speaking with a woman at a funeral luncheon. She had tattoos all over her neck. She was a member in my tattooed brother’s motorcycle “club”. Most of these members are professionals. My brother is a retired police officer and practicing attorney. Even dressed for the occasion, this woman’s tattoos were distracting. The eyes were drawn to the artwork that wrapped around her neck. I wasn’t even listening to her conversation. All I could think was, “Geez, that must’ve really hurt. How many needles and how long did it take?”

When I was in high school, I my ears pierced with a second hole. That was a big deal. Tattoos are permanent. The piercings can always close up.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this

Like the poster said earlier, everything has consequences whether its “girls gone wild” or tattoos. I guess its a side of you that wants the world to know your “bad”

By danish

September 15, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

My husband has 13 tattoos I think. He does not work in an office, never has. He couldnt wait to get our son’s name tattooed on the inside of his forearm in another language. The original ones he had I don’t care for (he got several when he served in the Persian Gulf War) but our son’s name looks interesting and so different on his arm and people ask him all the time what it is.

He also has his nipps pierced (which he had done before we met, I also don’t care for that, but I am used to it now.) and the baby likes to pull at the shiny rings!

I never thought I would marry a man who was so inked and pierced but he is the most loving, attentive, affectionate and caring father and husband I could wish for.

I wouldn’t want the baby to get tattoos ever, but when he is 18 I suppose he gets to make his own decisions. :)

By teach overseas

September 15, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I was 22 and desperate to get a tatoo. I had a scar on my lower belly and had a great idea on how to hide this with a vine like creation. I went to the tatoo artist and he looked at me and my drawing. He said he would do it- but that when I got pregnant, it would all stretch out of shape and look funny. At 22 I had no intention of having children. But I went home to think about it again and never seemed to get back. That guy lost a sale that day and 10 years later- married and with a baby I will always be grateful to him.

By abc

September 15, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

I’ve taught my kids that tattoos and piercings aren’t body art. It’s self-mutilation, and an advertisement of having no class.

By Lisa K.

September 15, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

I have only one tat….I got it shortly after my divorce…it’s a butterfly. And I have 2 young children.

One morning I was getting out of the shower and my daughter busted in the bathroom…she said OHHHHH, Mommy you got a butterfly on your butt….I was shocked…I said and you betta not tell anyone.

So she goes into my son’s room and they huddle together and I hear her telling him…Guess what? Mommy has a butterfly on her butt…He says, So, I don’t like butterflies.

But as they have gotten older….I explained to them what the butterfly meant to me. I also told them how painful it was to get a tattoo

By Beth

September 15, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this

Ladies do not have tattoos. This is our second year in FL and I thought that the frequency in which I see tattoos was attributed to just the trailer trash here. Unfortunately, it seems that the trend to defile your body is everywhere, across all walks of life. Whatever happened to “your body is a temple”? I would never get a tattoo, nor would I marry someone who has one. And I’m 25. And before someone can call me judgemental, I know that I am. You could also call it having standards.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this

@Beth - congratulations to your parents. Apparently they have instiled standards or morals whichever you prefer. And before the judgement police get started, that is what parents should do - give you a guide to go by, knowing that someday you have to answer for the choices you make.

By Beth

September 15, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Nikki. More people must stand up and speak out. These days, everything seems to be accepted, because no one wants to be “unpolitically correct.” We must stand up for what we believe in, or our children will think that all sorts of poor behaviors are “ok.”

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

There’s nothing sexier than a hot woman with the right tattoo!

By Pedro

September 15, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

Whenever I see a female with a tattoo on her lower back it screams out, “I love to be violated!” How can you call it art when you can’t even see it? Would you hang a painting or place a sculpture somewhere that only your guests could see? That’s the trashiest of all tats and is an invitation to every guy on the hunt. One of my friends always says, “Condom alert!” when he sees a butt tat. Read that remark any way you like.

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

I have three and my hubbie has two. None are visable and our child could really care less, just not a big deal. If we make it a big deal and say “no, no” I have a feeling he will reach a certain time in life where he probably wants to do the opposite fo what we tell him to. However, I do tell him that if I had to do it all over again, maybe I wouldn’t, just not sure.

As far as some being so judgemental and making blanket decisions about an entire group of people, my faith teaches me to not judge a book by its cover. I feel sorry for you because you will miss out on many wonderful expereinces since you already have your mind made up about folks. At son’s school they travel the world on mission trips, can’t imagine that they would be very sucessful if they shared Nikki’s mindset.

By Beth

September 15, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this

My father in law calls the lower back/butt tats whore stamps.

By Pedro

September 15, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this

Buffalo Bob, you make my point!

By Jesse's Girl

September 15, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

In my humble opinion….it spits in the face of lady like behavior to have a tatoo. Most especially where it can be seen by anyone other than your husband. Like it or not, we are judged by what we do. Much akin to the spikey hair with pink or blue streaks….or the astonishing ways in which some pierce their bodies…it all speaks to how you are perceived. Is it right? Is it fair? No, not really. But it is what it is. In my business, this kind of thing is expected. And I have seen some very authentic, awe-inspiring art work on people. Still…..were they not musicians and vocalists….I wouldn’t hire them.

By N

September 15, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

We are becoming a Class-less society with so many people becoming obseesed with this notion to display someone elses art work on their body. Just think about it, You like a drawing or work of art so much, that you decide to have it embedded in your flesh. There isn’t that much appreciation for art in the world. The origin of tattos was to mark or identify, and as we have become more of a Thug driven culture, so has our taste.The art that people are walking around with on their bodies is not their work, but the work of someone else, and 99% of individuals cannot carry on an intelligent conversation about the Artist or the work. Just a simple explanation that they picked it to have it done. It’s like Graffiti, some of it’s good work, but I don’t want it on my house or in my neighborhood.

By B

September 15, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

I have 3 tatoos my husband has none. My brother in law who will be the godfather of our baby has at least 4, the largest is almost his entire back. Note that 2 of mine are sometimes visible and I work in coporate america with a managerial position and have had no problem getting promotions or getting hired.
I agree with stayinvolved, if you judge everyone you see by a tatoo, haristyle, piercing, etc you are going to miss out on some of the kindest and most interesting people on the planet. Look past what you think should or should not be on someone else’s body. The rewards are worth it. This is what we need to teach our children. If you teach hate and closemindedness to a kid imagine what they can grow up to be? Racist? Sexist? Suicide bomber? Good luck with those values.

By B

September 15, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

I have 3 tatoos my husband has none. My brother in law who will be the godfather of our baby has at least 4, the largest is almost his entire back. Note that 2 of mine are sometimes visible and I work in coporate america with a managerial position and have had no problem getting promotions or getting hired.
I agree with stayinvolved, if you judge everyone you see by a tatoo, haristyle, piercing, etc you are going to miss out on some of the kindest and most interesting people on the planet. Look past what you think should or should not be on someone else’s body. The rewards are worth it. This is what we need to teach our children. If you teach hate and closemindedness to a kid imagine what they can grow up to be? Racist? Sexist? Suicide bomber? Good luck with those values.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

@stayinvolved I don’t believe I was by myself. My main point was that parents should be parents and guide their children. If you are religious you are familiar with train up a child or do you just use the parts you like. Don’t judge me either.

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this

Sorry about spelling before, need more coffee.

I agree with Jesses Girl, we are judged by our appereance, but i think those that work hard at overcoming what some think is human nature are those that have some of the most sucessful and rewarding relationships in life. Judging folks comes easy to many and does not take effort and often involves ignorance, overcoming that takes hard work, effort and a willingness to take a hard look at yourself. That’s my “we are the world” moment for the week!

By nikki

September 15, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

One more things toots. If you’re gonna pee in the wind, you need to be able to take what comes back at you. I. E., the dixie chicks…………..

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

So the one preaching being a lady is also talking about “peeing in the wind”? Hmmmm

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

I’ll take a fun, adventurous, sporadic, woman with a “whore stamp” over an uptight, stiff-lipped, bible-thumping, missionary position, stick in the mud, any old time.

By Just Me

September 15, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

When you self-righteous judgemental people stand before your Maker, I hope you still have that sneering pride on your face when you realize that…OOPS…God loves all of His children…and the Bible tells us we should too. Love your brothers. One day we will no longer have our physical bodies, with or without tattoos or piercing, and it’s going to be the content of our SOULS that is judged.

We would all be wise to worry more about the soul than the skin.

By CB

September 15, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

I got a tattoo when I was 19. It’s on my left shoulder blade and it’s probably no more and an inch and a half long. I don’t regret doing, you can’t see it unless I have a tank top on, which is rare. Sometimes I even forget I have it. My 5-year-old son has seen it before and really didn’t make a fuss about it and he’s never really asked me about it.

I think I’m a good mother, I’ve never been arrested, I’ve never done illegal drugs, I have a career in the medical field that I love and pay my own bills…I’ve never even had a speeding ticket! So, don’t judge me because I got inked almost 15 years ago.

And when I’m 80 and my skin has sagged and the rose tattoo I have is unrecognizable…I’ll probably be too senile to care anyway.

Man, it amazes me how people are quick to judge!

By nikki

September 15, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

Look u insipid tattooed freak, I have a right to my opinion, you have a right to yours. Go get a tattoo, prefereably on your mouth.

By William

September 15, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

Past50mom, I served my country proudly in the United States Navy for 5 honorable years. I did not receive any tattoos and do not have any to this day. This was my personal choice, but do not blindly lump “sailors” in with “sideshow freaks”. My tattooed and tatooless shipmates deserve more respect. And while I’m at it, what do you do each day that you can spew your predictable, pretentious and self-righteous crap, no matter what the topic. How boring your life must be.

By just me

September 15, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

@stayinvolved, that’s the problem. You don’t have the choice to do it over again. My son has his ex-girlfriends name on his chest and regrets it every day. A tatoo will outlast most relationships, so be carefull if you must on what you post for everyone to see.

By Beth

September 15, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

It appears that those who have tattoos seek attention. When the attention they receive is not positive, it’s the “uptight conservative Christians” who get the blame. When you get inked, (or get on a blog and brag about it) you open yourself up to critisism.

By thinkaboutit

September 15, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this

You can get all the tattoos you want. I don’t care. But don’t look for approval or for people to spare your feelings.

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Nikki makes Nurse Ratched look loose!

(This for the well-read and I don’t mean the bible. Feel free to google - though you won’t really appreciate it!)

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Son and I read devotions book last night for boys and the story was about standing strong in your faith when people attack or question it. So..just had lunch with him and was relying this conversation since as soon as I disagreed with Nikki, she questioned my faith, great example.

Anyway, he made a great point that a large chunk of folks you all are calling trashy are the same ones fighting and sacrificing for your right to voice that opinion. If you’ve served or have a family member that served (my brother) then you know what I’m talking about. Out of the mouths of babes!

By nikki

September 15, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

@buffalo chips - you’re just trying to impress the tattooed ladies cause they’re the only ones you can snag

By CB

September 15, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

Who said anyone was looking for someone else’s approval? It’d be one BORING world if everyone was just like YOU!

By nikki

September 15, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

@stayinvolved - you don’t make any sense at all. I was originally talking to beth, you used my name spouting your religion, i questioned your religion and now I’m a religious nut? Maybe the ink’s getting to you. When your always on the defensive about something you did, maybe it was wrong to begin with for you.

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

Beth - most people who have tattos DON’T seek attention. In fact, you are probably friends or aquaintances with several people who have them but you will never know.

It seems those who criticize and condemn others for certain behaviors are often pent-up with years of self-denial. They live closed, shallow existencies which they yearn to break from, but instead, stuff all their adventure and desire deep inside themselves until their old curmudgeons who lash out at everybody who actually LIVED their lives and have the audacity not to regret doing so.

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

Nikki - with you representing the opposite, I gladly go in the other direction. I shudder at the polo shirts and sweaters and docsiders with tassles you’d dress me in. And the wild nights at the AMC 24 followed by bible study and the a little “sex for procreational reasons!”

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

Buffalo Bob you made me smile. Just lost my dad to cancer and he called just about every nurse he encountered during his many hospital stays Nurse Ratched…those poor nurses!

By nikki

September 15, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

look buffalo butt, it was your friend stay involved spouting her love and religion, I just questioned her knowledge. And dude, don’t even flatter yourself………not in this lifetime

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

Nikki,

At least we do agree on one thing…not in this lifetime.

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

Whether you regret, don’t regret your ink if you raise your children never sharing the mistakes you made they cannot learn from them and many times don’t feel like they can talk to you about the real issues they are going through.

See it everyday, the parents who act like they never did anything wrong and never experienced some of the things their kids are experiencing, even if it is embarressing or immoral,lose their children. Your kids have to be able to relate to you and vice versa.

By Buffalo Bob

September 15, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Stayinvolved,

Glad I could make you smile - and my sympathies on the passing of your father.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

Well dearest, when they get to be kids they don’t listen. Didn’t say I was perfect, just said i don’t like tattoos. But you have to (because of your mistakes) set values for your children, not just pick and choose, cause mommy and daddy did. You are one messed up cookie. On one hand you have religion, on the other hand you to let your children run free because you did, cause you can straighten it up later. I have lived for a long time and have children. It don’t work that way honey.

By just me

September 15, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

Dang Nikki, who peed in your wheaties this morning?

By nikki

September 15, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

No one. Stay involved butted in citing meand no one else. I stand by what I believe in. I was talking to Beth and she attacked and kept at it. Not just gonna sit by and take it. I have an opinion and a right to express it. Don’t attack if you can’t take the counterattack.

By Fulton County Mom

September 15, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

My ex has a tattoo. It is easily covered with most shirts. He always felt it was for him so it wasn’t for public viewing.

The kids are aware of the tattoo. They have never asked me why he has one, no idea if they asked him.

They do like to put stickers on and call them tattos. They also know I have a rule…they can have any tattoo they want as long as it washes off. I have spoke them about this ad nauseum.

I think the saddest tatto I ever heard about was on the whole forearm of a coworker. (She’s a mom). I looked at it and said “you didn’t” she said, “I had too, I used to run in a gang, and I needed to make sure they could identify the body.” Yes, folks she meant it.

By stayinvolved

September 15, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Nikki, Don’t think I can take the credit for you letting your true personality shine thru. Thank you though. You must go through life fighting if you think this is an attack….

I feel sorry for you because you will miss out on many wonderful experiences since you already have your mind made up about folks. At sons school they travel the world on mission trips, can’t imagine that they would be very sucessful if they shared Nikki’s mindset.

By thatsallfolks

September 15, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

And the moral of the story is: There is more than one way to skin a cat. Whichever way you skin it, the cat ain’t gonna like it.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

Girl you tire me. All you want to post for is so that everyone can see your son goes to a christian school. FYI - I am well respected in my community, well connected both socially and professionally and have many friends around the world. I am close to my children, who I stood by no matter what they did. I was raised at my grandmothers knee and have come to find that the sayings she had for life were true even though it took me until now to know it.

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this

William, I am sorry that you were offended by my comments, but I was speaking from my experience. My comments were certainly not meant to insult the armed services either. My father is retired full bird USAF, and I have other family members serving in the Navy now. I spoke the truth for me, and tattoos look trashy and freaky to me. My biggest problem with tattoos is with putting a permanent perhaps dangerous chemical dyes UNDER the skin, to sit and interact with the body for years, and perhaps trigger cancer later. Maybe there will be some dramatic story in twenty years about cancers linked to tattoos, after millions of people thought it was safe. Kind of like smoking cigarettes was thought harmless for years. BTW my life is quite full, successful, and happy, and I could care less what you think! Have a nice weekend, William.

By Juli

September 15, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

I am a lady. I do not drink, smoke, cuss..I raise my children right. I attend church regularly, I have a good job, a good education, a nice house. And I have a tattoo. It amazes me at how judgemental people can be. I have a small symbol on my lower back that I got last year on the 5th anniversary of my daughters death. My husband has the same symbol on his arm. It is tasteful, meaningful, and you’ll never see it unless I want you to. My children know about it, they know why we have them, and I have no problem with that. Not all tattoos are big skulls, I “heart” Mom or naked women. I am not trash because I chose this way to memorialize my daughter. I could be your best friend, but you’ll never know unless I tell you.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

@juli - i am sorry for the loss of your daughter. And I understand you wanted to honor your daughter. You are discreet, it is tasteful and it is private. That is okay. I just expressed that those that choose to have a lot of tattoos showing will most certainly come upon a problem in a wedding dress or prom dress. It is a personal choice, but if you flaunt it in people’s faces, they will tell you what they think.

By Christina

September 15, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

Wow, there are a lot of strong judgements against something that doesn’t affect anyone but the person who made the decision. Why waste the effort being so worked up over something that doesn’t affect you?

Find a real cause to be passionate about.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

Ask theresa - she posed the question, thus the blog???

By xyz

September 15, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

I have a question: Why would your son tell a stranger/adult that she shouldn’t draw on herself?

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

Yhe beauty of the BLOG is that it brings out all of the opinions, intelligent or not, passionate or not. We all have opinions on everything in our lives, and the blog gives us a place to share. Just because we share our opinions doesn’t mean that we are passing judgment on any one person, well sometimes we do : ). The problem is that people are so thin skinned, so easily offended, and take everything so personally. Lighten up folks! I know a lot of respectable people with tattoos, and it doesn’t affect my relatinship with them. BUT I personally think a tattoo is trashy looking, and therefore not something I would ever choose. Live and let live, and deal with the fact that not everyone admires your tattoo, however discreet, memorable or tasteful it is.

By Vicki

September 15, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

Neither I, nor my husband has any tattoos. Unfortunately, the saddest tattoo I’ve ever seen was on a holocaust survivor when I was a child. It was just numbers. I asked about the numbers and it was explained to me. I still tear up when I think about her story. So I think that made a major impression on me not to mark myself.

By nikki

September 15, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

As the sunset fades in the west nikki must say that all she did to begin with was comment and then others started judging her. As for her personality, you don’t know her so back off. She don’t care about your tattoos or your hangups or anything else

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

The, not Yhe, sorry for the typo.

By Mrs.D

September 15, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

I am a 35 year old woman and I have a tattoo on my upper thigh and I plan on getting one my ankle. I also want one on my lower back. I have a office job and I think as long as your tattoos are not too visible at work, they are fine! My husband and family have no problem with it, so I really think it is up to the person if they get a tattoo.

By Mayretta Local

September 15, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

the tattoo removal business will be going gangbusters in a few years. too many kids these days get them to fit in with all their other friends. by the time something is seen as cool by high schoolers and middle schoolers, it’s already out of style among those truly in the know, be it clothes, music, body art, or slang. get one if you want but know the future repercussions of your actions. don’t float the mainstream.

By Mrs.D

September 15, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

I am a 35 year old woman and I have a tattoo on my upper thigh and I plan on getting one my ankle. I also want one on my lower back. I have a office job and I think as long as your tattoos are not too visible at work, they are fine! My husband and family have no problem with it, so I really think it is up to the person if they get a tattoo.

By Jessica

September 15, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

When getting a tat on a body part that is going to be covered, and you’re divorced you better make sure you’re kids don’t see it.

They’ll be telling your ex. Because kids repeat everything.

my husband’s ex has her new husband’s name tattooed on her breast. We learned this when the five year old declared that her cabagge patch doll had a tattoo just like mom.

You can’t fuss at your child for something you did at that age. not without being a hypocrite.

Things sag and stretch with age and weight gain too.

I wouldn’t, but that’s just me.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

I guess it has never occurred to the judgmental ones on this blog, the people who have the tattoos do not give a rat’s behind what you think of them…it’s generally a personality difference. It’s not like I don’t KNOW it’s a social taboo, it’s that I just don’t care about social taboo. I don’t care whether or not I will “get the promotion,” or how it will affect my “career.” My job isn’t who I am and I simply don’t live that way.

I have a pretty large tattoo on the bottom of my leg, one that is seen by all everyday. I have three children, go to church, my husband is a church leader and all the old ladies in my church just think we are great! I own a home, have a great job, been married to a great tattoo-less guy for 16 years, and could care less if people like my tattoo or not. I got this tattoo for ME, not you. I wanted my tattoo in a spot where I could see it, not hide it. The way I see it, since I went to the trouble to get one, then I wanted to see it.

I’ve always told my kids that if they want a tattoo, they need to wait until they are older and to really think about what they get because it is permanent. I shudder to think what I would have gotten tattooed on my body when I was 20 (yikes). I thought long and very hard about what I wanted and my tattoo means something to me on many levels…something that I really don’t feel like I have to explain to anyone because it is something for me and only me.

All these people who call it self-mutilation, do you have your ears pierced or does your wife/girlfriend? If so, that’s the same thing….Just because our culture accepts pierced ears that doesn’t mean it’s not self-mutilation, or as I choose to think of it, self decoration!

By Michelle

September 15, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

What about the mothers who do regret getting tatoos, but don’t have the money to get them removed? I have 2 that I got in my 1st semester of college, because I was a follower at that time. I understand that it cost a whole lot more to get it removed than put on. I can’t afford that and did not think clearly about that when I was getting them. I made some very idiotic decisions in college and now I am all grown up. Please don’t fault me, because I was once young and ignorant. By the way, I still make mistakes as an adult. I just try not to make them again.

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

ABS, You may not give a rat’s a&& if people don’t like your tattoo, but a lot of tattooed bloggers here today have been pretty vocal in judging those who don’t like tattoos. Personally, I am with you, and don’t give a rat’s a&&.

By Carey

September 15, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

I never knew there were so many ignorant people in this state. Tattoos and piercings are not trashy nor do they make the people that have them trash. I am 40 years old and will be getting my first tat in the next month or so, I took my 18 year old son to get his first the week he turned 18, we are incorporating the same cross in each of our tattoos although they will be different designs. Body art is simply a form of expression, I understand it’s not for everyone, so if you don’t like it don’t do it, but I guess it’s true people have to put others down to feel superior in thier own little way, not realizing all it does is show thier true ignorance. It’s my body not yours so what do you care? I believe it is said we are to treat our body like a temple, that’s what I am doing, when is the last time you visited a church/temple that was plain? Answer NEVER they don’t exist, they are all made to be as elegant and beautiful (even if you sacrifice function) with stained glass, gold trimmed furnishings etc. I’m treating my body the same way and doing what I feel will make it look better and more appealing, so it seems that these same ignorant tattoo equals trash morons can’t be religous in any way because if they are they best march into church sunday and remove all that crap that adorns the alter and every other inch of the church and tell the pastor that they simply want a plain building. I could care less about how they treat thier bodies so why should they care about me and mine-they don’t just a typical example of running off at the mouth. All these loud mouthed judgemental people here don’t stop to think that ear-piercings are the same thing, so I guess they are all trash or they are calling thier wives/girlfriends and even thier mothers trash. So if they are married/dating, the son or daughter of trash then I guess they themselves are TRASH!!. NUFF SAID GET OFF IT AND GO BOTHER SOMEONE WHO CARES CAUSE WE DON’T

By Kat

September 15, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

If you are proud of your tattooed, artistic choices, then don’t cover it up!

By Sheri

September 15, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Wow - What an “intellectual” topic to open the flood gates about… Christina said it best above, people are very opinionated over something that does not even effect them and sure can throw out harsh words about such a subject. Trash? - Trailer Park? Come on now - why even open such a forum on something that means nothing. I am a 30 year old mom of 2 - I personally have 5 tats, very tasteful ones at that, all that have very personal meanings behind each. Yes, 4 I got when I was still a teen and the fifth one I just got 4 months ago and has the most meaning of them all, represents my family. In fact, you would not believe how many people actually stop and ask about it and comment on the beauty of the tattoos. I allow my son to wear the temporary tats, and I purchase the sets for friends kids, because it’s all art. My older son has been to several tattoo shops in his 8 years here, and is very intrigued by it all… again it is art, and amazing at that as to how the finished pieces look. If he chooses when he turns 18 to get a tattoo, I will be the first one sitting in a chair next to him!! So to all of you people out there with your opinions of “trash”, apply it to those who really are in need of it. Not to those who like to display persoanlly created art on their OWN body!!!!

By abc

September 15, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

I call it mutilation, you call it decoration, it’s just a difference of opinion. Certainly you realized before getting tattoos that some would look at them askance, similar to purple hair or goth makeup and clothes or something like that. It certainly has become a fad lately.

It’s a valid point about pierced ears though — perhaps it’s only a matter of degree when comparing that with such as African tribal markings, like large loops stretched in lower lips, or neck extension rings that elongate the neck. The latter is certainly self-mutilation IMHO. Pierced ears are quite commonly accepted, tattoos apparently are not by many people.

By Kat

September 15, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

My husband has a tattoo. I like it; his mom doesn’t, but he’s 36 so who cares. I don’t consider the “temporary tattoos” for children as “art,” in my opinion. They may be novelty items or characters, but I don’t think they fall under the “art” category.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

That’s the spirit past50mom! I typically try to have at least ONE CONVERSATION with a person before I judge them and not base my opinions about folks on something superficial — I think that’s a more valuable lesson to teach your kids. Carey and Sheri, I’m right there with you! I esp. like the comments about church…well put.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

I guess I have a tasteful tattoo, because I have people stop me all the time and comment on how pretty it is.

abc, you are right, it is just a difference of opinion, and luckily we live where we can have our own opinions!

By CRB

September 15, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

My wife and I got matching tatoos during our honeymoon in Maui. They’re simple tribal style sea turtles…a male and a female. I plan to add smaller sea turtles to mine, symbolizing our children, as our family grows. Both are hidden from view under normal clothing.

I’m college educated (GT grad), professional ($100k+ salary), and conservative for the most part. Trash? I think not.

The hubris (go look it up ‘nikki’) of some of the bashers on this board amazes me. None of you…NONE…are brave enough to call people “trash” to their face. And honestly, your actions and behavior in this thread is “low rent” and “trashy” than most of the tatoos I’ve seen.

By Paul

September 15, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

One of my biggest pet peaves is women with tattoos. In fact, I refuse to date women with any tattoos. Why? because it shows a lack of respect for one’s self. Also, it tells me that person has no boundaries. Bottomline: tattoos are trashy and no self respecting women would have one.

By abc

September 15, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

I also would not date a woman with tattoos. Everyone has their preferences.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry Paul, we wouldn’t want to date you anyway. How arrogant for you to say something like that. I have lots of self-respect - run 3 miles a day, don’t smoke, don’t drink much, eat healthy. Please, you are just too arrogant for words…

By ABS

September 15, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah Paul, I forgot something….is it okay for men to have tattoos or are you just sexist too?

By Get Real

September 15, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

I get so tired of people passing judgement! So what if you have a tatto or tongue piercing So Whaaat@!Does that mean you are not a good person or trailer trash?No it means that you could give a damn about what the next person think or has to say it’s your body and you are free to do what you want with it. Too all of you saying you will not make it in a corporate world try again i have 4 tatoos and 2 of which are visible in the office and i am VP of Operations for a reputable bank that i would say the name but to all of you hypocrits you might want to pull your business. Everybody has a right to make their own decisions and if it does not affect the next person and their life then why be so judgemental!

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

CRB, Note that I was the first person to use the word trashy in my post earlier today. I used the word trashy to refer to the tattoo itself, not the person. There is a difference. Unfortunately the bloggers blew it all out of proportion. For me it’s not a judgment of character, but a matter of taste, or lack thereof. Different strokes for different folks, and if you like tattoos, go for it. As I said it’s more widely accepted these days.

By Paul

September 15, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this

ABS, To answer your question, No, guys with tatoos look just as ridiculous. By the way, I don’t date smokers either. Same reasons as mentioned above.

So you wouldn’t date me, my heart is breaking——not!

By KA

September 15, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this

Tattoos are like hairstyles and clothing styles. Mohawks, spiked hair, cornrolls, bobbed, frizzed, permed or straight, short or long, poofed or pulled back, or shaved heads are all choices we make in how we present ourselves to the world. We make choices according to our ages, experiences, social circles, cultures, etc. Ditto for clothing. A person can be intelligent, kind loving, the salt of the earth, and yet have horrible taste in hairstyle and clothes. We all know people like this, who make us wince (bless their hearts). Getting to know that person is the important thing as ABS said. However I can still have an opinion that the person looks trashy becuase of his poor choices. Of course I would not say anything to his face, as it is none of my business. No hubris, just humanity at work.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

Paul, Paul, Paul….goodness. It’s good to know you aren’t sexist though. Good to be consistent. But you have it wrong about us tattooed women, at least me….I have lots of self-respect, I’m just not judgmental. One more thing Paul and abc, say you meet the woman of your dreams (sorry, can’t be me, I’m married) marry her, and then on your wedding night you discover she has a tattoo. Do you divorce her?

By CDog

September 15, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

I have tattoos from my mid 20s. I have a daughter now, and I regret ever getting my tattoos. If I could afford to have them removed, I would. Tattoos are a stupid way of saying “I hate my body and want to deface it.” After studying the origins and meanings of tattoos, I found they are a form of paganistic worship.

Leviticus 19:28: “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.”

To anyone considering getting a tattoo, get a dog instead.

By ABS

September 15, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

I know a couple of priests who have tattoos, got them after they were ordained. I guess their interpretation of that Bible verse is a little different than yours CDog.

By Felicia Fox

September 15, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

I am 47 yr old professional woman. I have a tatoo of a butterfly on my lower back. I got it right after my divorce to symbolize my azz is free! I also have a belly ring. I am responsible for multi million dollar accounts for a internationality known company. And not one, I repeat, not one of my clients have question my integrity, my morals or my intellegance because of my tatoo or piercings. My tatoo and piercing is for my enjoyment. What I have under my clothes is my business. I have 4 children and a grandchild. It is no big deal to them at all. I have taught them TOLERANCE.

By past50mom

September 15, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

Felicia, And we appreciate that you keep your tattoos under wraps : ).

By sa

September 15, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

I am a liberal free-spirited atheist and I think tattoos look trashy too. It isn’t just a conservative/Christian opinion.

By Savant

September 15, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

Tattoo on a female’s lower back is called a “tramp stamp.” And, you know what? Nine times out of 10 that is a dead accurate description.

By Lloyd

September 18, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

Tattoos = Trash

Women with tattoos = whores

Deal with it.

By Howard

September 18, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

Tattoes or no tattoes. nikki and Buffalo Bob, play nice.

By Happily married

September 18, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

I am a mother of 2, and I have 4 tats. All but 1 are not visible unless I want you to see them. I only wish I would have listened to my father when he told me to NEVER put someone elses name on your body. 9 years later, I found myself in the chair again. This time covering up an old tat with a new and beautiful tat. My 18 yr old son got his 1st and only tat just days after his 18th b-day. He wanted something to memoralize my father, and got just that. Each of my tats have a special meaning to me. I hold a govt. job, have raised 2 wonderful children, own my home and contribute to the community daily. I really don’t care what anyone thinks about my tats, they are mine and I am proud!!!

By Well Now

September 18, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

I hope none of you preachers of “thy body is a temple” are overweight, have bad teeth, damaged hair or any other self-induced physical “flaws” cause that would mean you don’t respect your temple either!

SWEEP YOUR OWN DOORSTEP FIRST!

By bellamomma

September 18, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

Actually, I have class and a tattoo. I was raised upper class and my family is one of those old,wealthy,southern families. I got my one and only tattoo in memory of my first husband who passed away while I was pregnant with our only child. Because I never really “dealt with it” on the outside, this made me feel better. It is on the small of my back and is not visible, even in a bikini. My kids have seen it, when she asked me I told her it was my way of having her daddy with me. She liked that. I am not and have never been trash nor am I a whore. Saying that makes you sound so ignorant, intolerant and well just plain stupid.

ps my daddy was always one to tell me how trashy tattoo’s are. He also said tattooed women were sluts, druggies etc. Even he understood why I did what I did.

By bellamomma

September 18, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this

Actually, I have class and a tattoo. I was raised upper class and my family is one of those old,wealthy,southern families. I got my one and only tattoo in memory of my first husband who passed away while I was pregnant with our only child. Because I never really “dealt with it” on the outside, this made me feel better. It is on the small of my back and is not visible, even in a bikini. My kids have seen it, when she asked me I told her it was my way of having her daddy with me. She liked that. I am not and have never been trash nor am I a whore. Saying that makes you sound so ignorant, intolerant and well just plain stupid.

ps my daddy was always one to tell me how trashy tattoo’s are. He also said tattooed women were sluts, druggies etc. Even he understood why I did what I did.

By bellamomma

September 18, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this

Vicki, that is a really good thought. I had never thought about it like that.

I will not encourage my kids or even tell them I accept tattoo’s on them at any age. Now I know that makes me a hypocrite, and if they (at 18 years or older) come home with one I will accept it. I want them to really think about what they are doing first and IF they do it, chose something that means something.

By bellamomma

September 18, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this

well now you too have an excellent point and to beth, if your father-in-law was a gentleman he wouldn’t use such foul language in the presence of such a high class “lady”.

By dixie

September 18, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

oh my goodness, I have never heard so many hypocrites in my life! Yes, the bible says to treat your body like a temple (which can be read in many ways) but it also clearly says do not judge your neighbor. in fact i believe it goes remove the log in own eye before removing the sliver in your neighbors eye. it is amazing to me how some christians can sit there and look down on others. Jesus spent his time with the prostitutes and tax collectors. WWJD people! And before anyone starts whinning about how I am picking on conservative christians, I am in fact a conservative Baptist! With a tattoo! I am teaching your kids in Sunday school. Scared?

By mom

September 18, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

Nikki, when did you become the judge as too when a tattoo is “discret” enough or aceptable. Kiss my grits you self ritous child. “buffalo butt” and “buffalo chips”? come on! grow up. Oh and “tatoo freak”. Wow I wana be like you! Your some what valid point was lost in all the name calling and judgement. just remember karma is a b*** so when little nicki (ha ha that was a funny!) comes home with mom inked on her a* I hope you remember how you have behaved and imediately tell her she is white trash and you can’t love her anymore. YOU ARE THE FREAK DEAR!

By abc

September 18, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

ABS, I wouldn’t wait until the wedding night for consummation, sexual compatibility is too important to me for that. I did recently break it off with a woman because she had a belly button piercing. Sure, it could be removed, but a mindset that would undertake something like that is very unappealing to me.

Not to criticize people who are like that… again, everyone has their preferences.

By nikki

September 18, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

To all the people with tattoos. It is your preference to have whatever you want. I like past50mom, do not like them. I have a right to my opinion, as the blog questions was asked. I did not get nasty until a couple of people started attacking me. If you are proud of what you have, you have no need to get defensive. So don’t. But I will have my say if I am asked.

By Well Now

September 18, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

ABC, the mindset of someone who has to “test drive” another person before they “buy” is very unappealing to me.

By abc

September 18, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

Then it’s best we don’t know each other, since we’re strangers on a blog it shouldn’t be difficult for you to avoid me. Of course, one can pick any topic under the sun, and everyone will have their own take on it, based on preference.

By valerie

September 20, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

To each his own. If you want to deface your body with a tatoo, go for it. You will be the only person who has to live with it. I also had a loved one pass away, but I chose to have a special piece of jewelry made that I can were every day to remember them by (it has their picture engraved on it)instead of getting a tatoo. This is something that I can pass on to my daughter. With a tatoo, when you die you take it with you.

By Leanne

September 20, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

I am 44, mother of 3 and I have 1 tattoo. My youngest daughter fell off a boat last year and went up into the propellar. She lost her left arm as well as multiple injuries to the left side of her body. While she was in the hospital, they train you how to take care of a disabled child, but my grief & sadness for her was so great, I had a tough time. I woke up one morning and got “STRENGTH” tattooed on my left hand- I told my daughter that she will always have a “strong left hand” to help her. Every surgery she has had, or every painful procedure she has had to go through, she holds my left hand and tells me “Thank you for reminding me to be strong”. My tattoo is permanent, just like the loss of my daughters’ arm. I did it for her, not for anyone else. My God knows my heart and soul, I answer to Him, not anyone else. When I am laying in my casket and my grandkids see my tattoo on my hand, I hope it tells a story of how much a mother can love her daughter, and through strength in families, we can make it through anything.

By bellamomma

September 21, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

amen leanne!