A first

Today was a first for me. I’ve attempted it once before and had a false start.

I had a consultation with a specialist in the field, and will return to see her early next year to complete the process.

What is it, you ask?

Well, at 48, I'll be getting my first ever tattoo.

Since my mum passed away, I’ve been wanting to have a little caricature she drew of me applied to my arm as a tattoo.

The sketch is — in true mum fashion — very funny. It depicts me with a smiling face, and my hair flying away from my head, representing my curls.

Don’t let the simplicity of the sketch fool you, though — Mum was an amazing artist, who loved to draw, paint, sketch, and sew. I recall her doodling little artistic drawings while on the phone.

She'd also draw hilarious little sketches to accompany the notes she'd leave us at home years ago. I still have some of them, and they make me laugh out loud.

I guess the tattoo will be a reminder of the joy mum brought out in others, and in me, through her sense of humour. It'll be a little creation of hers I'll always have with me. It will always make me smile.

I’ll be sure to post another update following my appointment at the end of January. Watch this space…