Mom With Over 800 Tattoos Fires Back At Haters Insisting ‘I’m Still A Good Mom’
It wasn't very long ago that tattoos were deemed "taboo" or alternative and people faced harsh judgment for having any body ink.
In some places, and for some people, tattoos are still seen as something that is against the social norm.
Tattoos Are More Common Today But Not Completely Accepted
On the other hand, times have changed and the majority of the world can understand that humans have long used tattoos as a form of expression and art.
Even though body ink is more widely accepted now, people still have prejudices toward others who they see as having "too many" tattoos.
A Tattoo-Loving Mom From San Diego Is Trying To Break Stereotypes
People with lots of tattoos often get weird looks from strangers in public and constantly get asked about why they have so many.
One mom from San Diego, California, is sharing how she deals with the harsh judgment she receives from strangers over her tattoos.
She Has Inked Over 78% Of Her Body
Valerie Watson is a 34-year-old mom of two. She describes herself as a "self-taught artist" and "momma wolf" to her two boys Wolf, 3, and Xavier, 15.
Valerie looks a little different than most moms her age because she has covered over 78% of her body in tattoos.
Valerie Got Her First Tattoo At Age 14
Valerie got her very first tattoo when she was 14 years old and has been collecting them ever since.
The mom has spent thousands of dollars getting inked over the years and has no intention of stopping while there is still skin to cover.
The Mom Has Over 800 Tattoos Including Some On Her Face
Valerie says that she has over 800 tattoos and counting. She is determined to cover her entire body and even has multiple inkings on her face already.
The mom estimates the remainder of the tattooing process will cost her about $50,000 total.
Her Tattoos Bring Negative Attention From Online Trolls
The mom is no stranger to receiving negative attention on social media from complete strangers.
Some online trolls have even gone as far as accusing her of setting a poor example for her children.
She's Setting The Record Straight About Certain Misconceptions
Valerie wants people to know that her tattoos don't define her abilities as a mother.
She recently sat down with Truly to talk about some of the misconceptions she faces because of her face and body tattoos.
People Assume That She's Crazy Or Unfit To Be A Mom
In an interview for YouTube, Valerie explains: "Most of the misconceptions are mental health issues—that only crazy people tattoo their faces."
"But I'm comfortable in my own skin. It's a look that I'm comfortable with."
Her Husband Supports Her Ink Obsession
Valerie's husband, Wes, is supportive of her tattoos and also sports his own body ink.
He did admit that he would rather if she didn't get any more face tattoos but she doesn't seem deterred.
Valerie's Family Fully Support Her Having Tattoos
The mom explained that her boys are her biggest supporters when it comes to her tattoos.
Valerie recalled that her eldest son, Xavier, started noticing the tattoos at around 6 or 7. She said, "That's when he started noticing, like, OK, you're the only mom that has tattoos like that."
Her Sons Both Accept Her Tattoos As Normal
She goes on to say that her son was really supportive instead of judgmental.
"He would never say anything negative which was awesome. I just want him to see that I am comfortable in my own skin."
The Mom Wants People To Know Her Main Focus Is Her Boys
Valerie's children are her number one priority regardless of her tattoos and appearance.
"I want the best for them. And I know that they will have the best, I'll make sure."
