On Tattoos

I was chatting with my husband and father in law tonight, recounting favourite work stories, and I realised how new I really am to the world of 'those who have tattoos'

I recently finished up a chest piece, which is something I never really thought I would invest in, but am enjoying now that I do. 

I had an encounter at a Christmas party wherein a middle aged woman came up to me and tried to wipe off my tattoo with her hands. She wasn't rough, I wasn't injured, but entirely perplexed. My companions with whom I was in conversation with, were also perplexed. Upon recounting this story to friends later I found their reactions to be more along the lines of "why didn't you slap her?"  Well, because I have never been in these situations before. One can think of how they would react within a certain situation all they want but until one has gone through several of the same, you will probably react with complete perplexity. 

I think there should be a tattoo ettiquette. Namely; do not touch other people without asking. You wouldnt like it if I just randomly came up and started touching your hair or clothes. Don't touch tattoos, or the clothing of the people who have them. Its not yours. Ask first. Be understanding if the person says no. Its their body, not yours. 

That being said, I love my tattoo. It not only is special because of the Ravens who I view as a sort of spirit animal, but also because it makes me happier about my chest.  I have always had a large bust, and this tattoo, while causing people to look at my chest, distracts from just staring at my breasts.

Tattoo done by Halley Mason at Two Birds Tattoo in Greenwood, Wa

Documentary Review: Blackfish

I have been talking with several friends about reactions to Blackfish, many hadn't seen it yet but knew the media hype of it's sensationalism. 

I found this film to be beautiful, sad, tragic, and well balanced for telling a story that has two opposing sides.  The main message that the reviews gave it was that it focused on the tragic death of trainer, Dawn Brancheau in 2010.  I found that it delicately and beautifully spoke about her death, but focused on the treatment of the animals and the withholding of ALL the facts to be the cause of the actions of these beautiful creatures.  Neither did it use garish re-created footage to further sensationalize the attacks, rather there were news clips and interviews with former trainers who were at SeaWorld at the time of the event.

I found myself feeling sympathetic for Tilikum and his circumstances.  At 12,000 pounds he is the largest Orca in captivity and at this point in his life, is really just kept for the use of his sperm.  He performs occasionally, but spends most of his time alone in an isolated pool. 

Tilly was originally captured by the Canadian company, Sealand of the Pacific, whose attraction was located near Victoria, BC. 

I am glad I watched this film and heard the stories from former trainers, their reactions and their experiences with these majestic animals.  This article was an interesting view on Tilly from Orca Trainer Colin Baird.  Go see Blackfish.  Better yet, stream it on Netflix.  

Guess how many wild Orca whales have attacked humans?  

None.

~Anna

Snippets

Life has been busy post college.  Busy with remembering how to be a human, busy with visiting friends and family, busy with puttering around my little apartment.  So busy, in fact, that I have deeply neglected this poor little blog.  That, my dears, will soon come to an end.  I have books to share, documentaries to review, and sewing and knitting goodness coming your way!

In the mean time, here are a few little snippets from the past month (ish) that I have been meaning to share.

This is Shmoo.  Short for Shmooser, this delightful boy lives on Capitol Hill's Twice Sold Tales bookstore.  I went in on a whim and not only found a book I have been searching for (!!!), but got the sweetest neck massage and "purr" therapy from this sweet boy.  

There is a new "monster" in our house.  A Bandit Bunny came to join us, much to the delight of Teeny.  They have been spending the last month "bandit-ing" anything that I glance away from.  

THIS BOOK!!  I don't think I have spoken on here about my love for illustrator, Trina Schart Hyman, but (knowing me) I have and simply forgot.  I fell in love with Trina's work when I was 14, and spent countless, endless hours in the Burien Library memorising the spines of her books.  I entertained the dream of having her illustrate a children's book that I wrote, but she passed away in 2004, so I collect her books and continue to marvel and the delicate watercolour work she once did.

Swan Lake makes the fourth book in my TSH collection.  I have The Fourtune Tellers, King Stork, TSH's autobiography, and now Swan Lake.

Leaving you now with this bit of silliness from Christmas Eve.  Finally (!) got the dear man to smile for one good picture.  Ta ta for now dears!

xoxo,

Anna