Ink Blotter 8/21/15

Amity Shedd of St. Louis, formerly of Gordonville, submitted this photo of her tattoo. "The lyrics to Guns N' Roses' 'Paradise City' on my arm is in memory of my brother, Josh Downing. My brother died suddenly after a nearly decade-long fight with leukemia and the aftereffects of the stubborn disease. Some of my fondest memories of my brother include our travels together in his sweet ride, jamming out to classic rock -- Guns N' Roses obviously included. This specific song was the last song our family chose to play at Josh's celebration of life in December 2013. The well-known ballad lightened the mood of the service and brought a smile to people's faces, much like my brother did. The lyrics took on a deeper meaning for me. My brother lived a tough life -- one I wouldn't wish on my absolute worst enemy. He of all people deserved something better in the end. I like to think he's up there living in his own Paradise City -- pretty girls included."

(Photo submitted by Amity Shedd)

To submit a tattoo, visit www.semissourian.com/forms/tattoo.