My first tattoo was done in the Spring of 1998, not long after I had started my apprenticeship. My mentor, Mike Garcia, had some extra time one day and asked if I was ready. We had been discussing this tattoo for quite some time, even before I had started my apprenticeship. I chose this particular dragon, even though it was a flash piece, because it was drawn by a lady I tremendously admire and respect - Judy Parker. Of course I felt a rush of anxiety as Mike got all the equipment set up, but I was ready! At the time, I didn't know what color I wanted the dragon - or if I wanted color at all. So, it has been left unfinished even until now. I am now thinking of how I can incorporate it into the back piece I want, so it's future still remains unknown. I am very proud to have this tattoo, both because it was done by Mike and inspired by Judy.

My third tattoo was done by another good friend of mine, Gerry Beckerman. Gerry owns Ozark Ink Tattoo in Ava, Missouri and has been tattooing for over 20 years. I had talked with Gerry online for a long time and we decided to meet up at the Tattoo Rendezvous convention in Kansas City in July of 1999. While we were there, I decided I wanted some ink from him so we talked about what I wanted to have done. I had wanted a breast tattoo for quite some time but was a little apprehensive about baring my boob to some stranger. So, since I trusted Gerry, I decided this would be the time to do it. I was surprised at how little it hurt - I barely felt it at all. I absolutely loved the colors he used and absolutely cherish this tattoo (as it is close to my heart, after all!).