A Free Spirit

Never defiant

Not calling for help

Never seeking attention

Not afraid to commit

Never anyone’s concern

Not up for debate

Always beautiful

And present, my treat…to me, from me, for me.

I received my induction into the addictive world of tattoos at the age of 24 through my friend David Digby. Currently, I have 8 tattoos, and not only do I not regret getting these permanent markings, I may get more!

My first tattoo…a Nordic power symbol (the cauldrons of rebirth symbolizing the cyclicality of life) a “tramp stamp” that will always be special to me as it was my first, it was done stylistically old-fashioned (with a single needle gun - as opposed to a multi needle gun) and done by a friend. I don’t see it often due to its placement but, it reminds me of my powerful Viking roots and it symbolizes the unity and connectedness of life.

Five of my other tattoos are flowers! The lotus represents a rising from the depths, ascending to the light, reaching maturity with beauty and grace…all attributes I strive to attain and maintain. The prairie rose (state flower of North Dakota) is for my paternal and maternal grandparents - all from North Dakota. Beautiful, resilient and never obtrusive, the prairie rose is simple and elegant in its beauty. The Scottish thistle - both the Tennessee state flower (once my home) and Scottish for my beloved Scottish Terriers. The sunflower…bright, happy, giving and Sun loving - what’s not to like!? The Gerber daisy - I was once auditioned to be a Gerber baby…it represents times of joy and it adorned one of my wedding bouquets. That’s a digressing story, we won’t get into :).

The last two of my tattoos are free spirited and remind me of fun times! My feather…I received this in Canada when I was on tour with singer/songwriter Kesha with a Tattoo artist backstage! Woohoo.

And my “I love you” inscription - I got this in Atlanta with my now ex-husband…a reminder to have no regrets, that love prevails and is all that matters.

Raquel Wynn, Bocas del Toro, Panama

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