Although I’ve never gone “under the needle,” so to speak, I’ve always been intrigued by tattoos and the various stories they tell. And while some people may take the whole idea of body art a little too far, in my opinion (and you know what I’m talking about), tattoos are largely accepted nowadays, from the bank executive or wealthy businessman (or woman) on down. Which is why I recently made my way to Rosebud Tattoo and Tanning, located in the north plaza just outside the City of Norwich, for this installment of Punching the Clock.

Co-owners Brett and Joyce Leim were there to greet me, of course, although both were more than a little busy when I entered their brightly lit and immaculately clean work space; Joyce finding tanning rooms for a handful of customers while Brett prepared another for the latest ink job. All stereotypes aside, this was certainly not a tattoo parlor as envisioned by Hollywood – country music (I think it was Kenny Chesney) versus heavy metal or gritty blues, no smoky interior, no switchblades nor bikers. Instead, and as previously stated, a clean, well-lit space, where I was greeted by the extremely friendly Gracie, about the kindest black labrador one could hope to meet. As for the surprised look on my face when I first entered? Well, Brett and Joyce just laughed ... they’re used to it.

“That stereotype is still around,” said Brett, who opened Rosebud Tattoo and Tanning’s most recent location with mother Joyce in August of 2011 (Rosebud has been in business for more than a decade). “Really it’s all about taking good care of your people, making sure they get what they want and making them feel comfortable.”

Needless to say, it’s a family affair at Rosebud Tattoo and Tanning. Joyce, with more than 13 years experience in the business, learned the art form from her brother. Brett, with nearly eight years experience, learned in turn. Said his mother, “I watched Brett and when he first started he looked upset for awhile, but within six months ... he took to it naturally. He’s just getting better and better all the time. He loves it and he’s definitely a people person.”