2012

I'd never taken the idea of a fresh start to heart until 2012 began and within days, my life was completely different.

I had a new job, I bought new clothes, I could be an entirely new person.

But I wasn't. I'm not.


I still stay up too late. I don't get enough sleep. I was a workaholic, and then I wasn't. I stopped worrying (a little).


I saw San Francisco through new eyes. I ate out a lot and waited countless hours for brunch. I didn't feel guilty one bit.

I met my heroes. Who, I learned, were also just girls making it work. They were genuine and passionate and refreshing.


My heart broke in a new way. I was disappointed in people I trusted. I let it defeat me, for a while, and then I decided I didn't give a fuck.



I took on more shoots and projects. I spent hours with culinary antiques thanks to Ruth and I stayed in a treehouse. I got published.


I lost my favorite ring.

I fell in love with Portland.

My camera reminded me how beautiful my friends are. We discovered places together and they let me take their portraits.

And I made more friends. Different and inspiring in new ways, loving and wonderful all the same.

I got separated from the kitchen and rekindled the love in one big homemade ramen night. Now dinner parties are my dream for 2013.

I spent another birthday away from home. I felt overworked and exhausted but couldn't believe I was on my first "business trip." In New York City, nonetheless.


I shared a lot of meals outside. The weather was forgiving and even inviting.

I ate out too much.


I never got tired of our phở place. I ordered the same thing every single time.


I discovered the central coast. We got a little car sick, but it was beautiful the whole way. Best coast, indeed.

We had a fondue picnic by a lake at sunset.


I only went to the farmers' market once. In Portland. It was the best Saturday.


I traveled when I thought I wouldn't get to anymore. For work and for friends: New York, Portland, Chicago, Portland, Charleston, Portland again, Austin, Florence, Munich, Berlin.


I've never traveled so much in the States. I hope to see more.


I went back home. I walked familiar streets and went to my favorite gelaterias. I've never felt more comfortable speaking Italian. I couldn't believe it.

I had the sweetest boy by my side.


I held the lightest, most pure life in my arms.


I felt most content at golden hour.


I cherished old family and friends and welcomed new ones. I celebrated more. I was thankful. I am thankful.

Thank you, 2012.
2013, I'm ready.