Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia)

I've been many places across the US, but there is only one place that really speaks to me—Joshua Tree National Park. I first experienced the park when I moved to San Diego in late summer of 2013, and upon my first visit, I knew that this was a place that was incredibly special for me. Many see it as an arid place with weird outcroppings of rocks and spiky trees. For me, those rocks are puzzles in which to climb with ropes to test my own skills, or to scramble up on then sit to admire the gorgeous view and have time for me, and the Joshua Tree, well, it's just amazing. They are only found in this one part of the world, they look Dr. Seussian, but are part of the yucca family. From the first time I saw them, I fell in love with them.

Due to climate change, this species is moving towards being an endangered species. My tattoo is of a specific Joshua Tree that can be found at 34°02'19.8"N 116°11'03.3"W. Thanks to Mike Stobbe at Avalon II for giving me my own Joshua Tree.

Beth Redmond-Jones
Vice President of Engagement and Education
San Diego Natural History Museum

Want to share your own story and tattoo?
Email Beth: bredmondjones (at) sdnhm (dot) org or Paul: info (at) orselli (dot) net.

Manta Ray

When I was 20, I was snorkeling on the back side of Catalina Island off the coast of Los Angeles. As I came out of a kelp bed, below me was this incredible and beautiful manta ray. The wing span was immense and the ray was so graceful as it glided along the sandy ocean floor. I followed it in ah of its beauty, and then it started swimming up towards me and the water's surface. The manta ray came close to me and I reached my hand out and touched its wing. It was an incredible encounter with a magnificent creature.

Since that experience, I have dreamed of getting a manta ray tattoo, but I could never find the right artist. Then, I met Mike Stobbe (www.stobbewan.com) from Avalon Tattoo II in San Diego, and that all changed. Now, I have my manta ray.

Beth Redmond-Jones
Senior Director of Public Programs
San Diego Natural History Museum