Good job on filling your life with good friends and putting energy into positive things you can enjoy.
Her tattoos? IDK, but it is something that is frequently reported in the stories on the board. It may be on her list of things to do before she gets any older (part of her MLC acting out), however, people have other reasons for tattoos. I have read, and have witnessed, how tattoos can become somewhat addictive.........although, I don't know if that would be the proper word to use. I have noticed in a few people, when they get their first tattoo, it's not long before they are thinking about what next. When they begin covering their body? I would say there is some psychological reason beyond "just liking tattoos"...........but that's just me thinking out loud.
It is not about what you feel should work in your M. It is about doing the work that gets the right results. Do what works!