Christmas break has officially come to an end. I soaked up plenty of time with family and friends and have reluctantly accepted that the spring semester is here. With a rocky, wintry start to the second week back in classes, I decided to take a pause and finally return to Coffee Talk.
Although the semester just started, it feels like I am right back at the beginning of the first semester. I almost forgot how difficult classes were and how hard missing home is. With moving back in, studying, and desperately planning last minute housing suites, I haven't had time to think about how much I loved break.
One of the biggest highlights of break was getting matching tattoos before my best friend, Fiona, moves to Oklahoma to live with her husband. We had talked for a while about getting tattoos together, but everything fell into place once I found out she would be leaving soon. One night while chatting, we decided on a design that felt truly meaningful to us. When I first told my family that Fiona and I were getting parrot tattoos, I was met with plenty of disapproval, which I completely understood. A bright, colorful bird tattoo can sound a little impulsive. Still, I am so grateful that I ultimately went through with it and shared that moment with Fiona.
So, if you’re considering getting a tattoo, here are a few tips I would give my pre-tattooed self. First, find the right artist. I specifically looked for someone who specialized in fine-line work because I didn’t want the tattoo to look bulky or cheesy. Fine-line tattoos, often done with a single needle, can take longer, but they leave a crisp, clean result. Second, choose something meaningful. Our parrots flying around one another represent growth, beauty, and spirituality. Lastly, aftercare is everything, don’t scratch or pick, use Aquaphor, and clean it daily. Taking care of your tattoo is just as important as choosing it.
Fiona has been my best friend for as long as I can remember, and I have so much love for her. No matter where life takes her, I know our bond will remain strong. Our shared love for Laufey, Starbucks runs, Crafty Shack nights, and trips to the night market are memories I’ll always hold close. And while no one is counting, I’m hopeful that in two years she’ll make her way back to middle-of-nowhere Pennsylvania so we can keep making memories together. (And yes, I’m already booking flights to visit her this summer.)
Latte Love,
Jill☕️
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I love knowing the story behind your parrots ♥️
I love yours and Fionas Tats. making memories with friends always makes you closer. i like Fiona's smile which is constant a beautiful young lady
10:10 Pap
I love you so so much Jill, and I love our tattoos! I already can’t wait for you to come down to Oklahoma!