Many may know, and many others may learn for the first time, that in October of 2005, my Dad lost his battle with lung cancer. He had fought well, going through the routine of biopsies, CT scans, chemotherapy, and the removal of one lung. After the successful removal surgery, further complications manifested in the brain and shortly after in the heart. Those complications eventually landed him in the hospital where close family were able to spend some precious time with him. He passed 2 weeks before his 56th birthday.
After his memorial service a couple weeks later, I propositioned my already-inked brother, Jason, with the idea of he and I getting matching tattoos in memory of our Dad. He LOVED the idea! Now, the only obstacles were: a) choosing the right design to capture our true feelings we have for our Dad, and b) getting me (the virgin-skinned one) the nerve to actually DO it!!
Fast-forward to November 2008...
So, after 3 years, a few different design ideas and concepts, and one pregnancy (you shouldn't get a tattoo if you're "with child" or nursing), my brother and I finally found THE design. And, with just a little foot and telephone work, a local tattoo artist agreed to take our request. Now, without giving too much away before viewing the photos, I will give a little insight into our design selection.
Our Dad's first name is Rex. Traditionally, the name Rex means "king". It is common knowledge that the lion is the "king" of the jungle. And, the lion-king's children are his cubs... his Pride. We love you, Dad!!
P.S. Many heartfelt thanks to our fabulous tattoo artist, Matt Wheeler!! He does awesome work and operates out of Aces High Tattoo Shop in Fullerton, CA. Thank you, Matt!!
