When I was younger, even two years ago, I would've never pictured myself as being the "type" to get a tattoo. I was raised in a family that associated having a tattoo with not being able to get a job. It was not uncommon for me to walk by someone with a tattoo before and think of them as "below" me. As I got older, I started to think that maybe it would be exciting to get one. No it wasn't because I was in a rebellious teenage stage. It was simply because I think they're really cool. I know cool is the absolute worst word you could use to describe something that you like but at the time that's what I thought. I just wanted to find a design that meant something to me and that would continue to because you might've heard, they're permanent. In the nicest way I can possibly say this, I didn't want a basic design. If I was going to actually go for this, I wanted something that would stand out. I wanted people to say, "Hey! Nice tattoo!" Despite what you're probably thinking, the convincing of my parents wasn't the hardest part. My mom, when I asked nicely, took the "you're 18 now and it's your body, you can do whatever you want" approach. She was just concerned that I made sure it was something I really wanted. My dad definitely dreaded the idea. I waited until the day I got it to tell him it was happening that day. I eventually decided to get the tree of life on my back left shoulder. The tree of life was something I had recently decided was my "thing." Partially that it's just really cool looking (there's that cool word again), I would be lying if I didn't say that I think the tree of life at Animal Kingdom in Disney World makes me happy, and I would also be lying if I didn't say that I'm a biology major and Darwin's tree of life intrigues me. The metaphorical meaning of the tree of life translates to me as meaning that you are living a beautiful life here on Earth and enjoying the journey as you continue to grow. Just as the tree grows to reach toward the light, you grow as a person into who you are meant to be/ want to be. It can take on many different meanings depending on the person. Honestly, I could've said whatever I wanted about what it meant. I know that I am a firm believer of waking up every day with a smile on your face, enjoying everything the day has to bring (good and bad) and laughing your way through it. The tree of life is a constant reminder of that for me. I had the tattoo artist draw it up and my boyfriend (mentioned in my previous article as The One) came along to get one of his one. Overall, it was an awesome experience despite feeling like I wanted to throw up the whole time. When I saw it in the mirror I actually squealed with joy. I was in love with it. Now, I purposely wear tanktops to show off my rockin' tattoo and I will tell you all about it if you tell me you like it. I can't wait to get my next one. Making this decision definitely made me more open-minded about the wonderful world of tattoos. Now when I see people that have them, I'm wondering what they it is and the story behind it rather than thinkly poorly of them. I'm so glad I took the jump to get one. Our world is changing along with our perceptions and the chances of you not getting a job because of your tattoo is much slimmer. The experience of getting one has opened my eyes to others who have them and has changed my perception and for that I am grateful. If you're thinking about getting one- go for it, it's OK.
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1. When you see each other after a hiatus it is like no time has passed.
Regardless of what you may have gone through, nothing can change the banter and personal communication you and your friends share. Nothing feels awkward or forced because you are having too much fun catching up!
2. You plan your outings around each other's schedules.
Your friend's work schedules or class schedules are memorized like the back of your hand. They are your priority, and you will do anything you can to get them to join you on adventures when it is convenient to do so.
3. You say 'I love you' on the phone.
Yes, you may say it in real life too, but saying it after a phone call means it has become a customary for you to validate your appreciate for one other. Like a significant other or family member, you feel the desire to express your love at the end of a conversation.
4. Nothing is boring when you are together.
No matter what you do together, you always have a good time. Why? Because your friends' company is all you need. With the right people, you can make any situation memorable.
5. You share weird inside jokes no one else understands.
And you would like to keep it that way. If you are anything like my friend group, we share a strange family dynamic that has lasted as a running joke forever. No matter what it is, your inside jokes and sly smirks will keep the spirits up for ages.
6. You plan to hang out for a couple hours but end up together the entire day.
So now you just expect it and prepare for a 24-hour long get-together. Naps are often a part of the agenda.
7. The hugs say a thousand words.
Perhaps you do it a little too much, but the hugs you share are always meaningful and comforting. Gotta love those group hugs especially!
8. You go on spontaneous adventures together.
It is where your favorite memories come from. Even though you might not be able to do them as much as you would like, you are always down for a trip, big or small, with the group.
9. You consider each other family.
Because you consider each other family, you treat each other like family. Constant love, constant support, and a tremendous amount of meals spent together.
10. They make you a better person.
It is not a special friend group unless you learn from one another. You had to be selective when choosing your friends and when you did, you felt like they could teach you a thing or two. Their actions influence who you are and you could not be more thankful.
11. You can't imagine life without them.
The very thought scares you and sends your heart racing. Thankfully, the ultimate friend group is right there with you so you never have to second-guess their loyalty. Instead, you can bask in the glory that is your ultimate friend group. #squadgoals.
1. No school = no stress.
There are no essays to write, no books to read, and no deadlines to meet. The only worry in the world is keeping track of putting sunblock on.
2. Country music is more fun to listen to.
All true fans will listen to country music 365 days a year, but we all know that it's so much better in the summer when you can roll down the windows.
3. Your skin looks and feels better.
Even if you don't have the type of skin that tans, there is more color there than in the winter ... maybe. Freckles, tan lines, peeling burns and clear skin make for a happier camper. You'll forget all about the ghost version of yourself that was shedding dry skin like a snake over the winter.
4. Being barefoot 24/7 is an option.
Obviously wearing no shoes in the middle of a blizzard isn't acceptable. You know what is, though? Wearing no shoes in the summer ever because why not?
5. Ice cream is an acceptable snack.
For people like me who can't resist ice cream even on a 10 degree day, summer is a giant ice cream blessing. Not only does it taste like heaven, it's actually refreshing.
6. Minimal clothing is required.
Is there anything worse than having to put on layers in the wintertime only to sweat to death the minute you come back inside? No need for more than a tank top and shorts in the summertime.
7. Going to the beach daily isn't weird.
Now that it's hot, it's beach season. If you live near the ocean there is an excuse to drive there day or night, rain or shine. Staying there all day is an option for those who don't burn, and for those who do, you can always come back at night for a bonfire.
8. Cookouts.
Even when they lead to disaster, summertime cookouts are the best. Nothing completes a cookout more than watermelon and corn on the cob.
9. Night swimming.
Oh the thrill of jumping in freezing cold water in the middle of the night. Good thing the air becomes colder than the water, making the pool like a giant bathtub.
10. Spontaneous adventures.
Summertime gives you the freedom to wake up in the morning and decide to do something totally out of the blue that you've never done before. Hiking to a waterfall, rock climbing, going to a museum, or even road tripping are all great summer options.
Even if the heat isn't really your thing, it's undeniable to admit that life really is better in the summer. There's so much more free time, opportunity, excitement and sunshine. Only four months to go!
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