Gratuitous dark floral studies

I couldn't help myself. They are just so stunning. The color gradient in the red petals is especially beautiful to me. I also love the way the petals curl out like welcoming arms at the edges. Call me the crazy ranunculus lady. :P

Vandaag

One of the many perks of shooting for Serious Eats is that we get to visit popular places in the off-hour. On the dreary and wet Wednesday of this week, we headed to Vandaag for some drinking and shooting. While I was waiting for the drinks, I snapped these of the interior. The place felt dark and cozy, and the gray day made these shots feel black and white appropriate.

I especially loved the rolled up newspapers on the bar and the shape of these dining chairs.

I have enjoyed coming here for drinks (fantastic beer list and cocktails!) a number of times. The place just felt so different mid-day and I quite loved it.

And thank you everyone for the birthday wishes! They were very much appreciated. :)

24

As much as I bemoan getting older, there's no stopping my birthday from coming and going. 23 was a beautifully turbulent year (yes, I'm laying on the drama pretty thick). The months leading up to my exit from the corporate world were rough. There was so much uncertainty and doubt about whether I could succeed in this industry (not that the doubt has completely disappeared now). My birthday usually turns me into a grumpy pessimist and grumpy overall, because I reflect and wonder what the hell I've accomplished in the past year. This year, I'm going to look forward and embrace what's to come.

J got me this beautiful (and man is it beautiful!) 27'' iMac because he knew I needed a computer that didn't take a full minute to render an edit. Yes, I am spoiled and incredibly lucky. The funny thing about these photos is that they make my desk look neat and uncluttered, but what you don't see is the floor and the tables to the left and right where I've discarded all of the junk that was on my desk. ;)

Coffee, flowers, inspiring photography books... these things will, of course, always have a place on my desk.

Well, I'm off to enjoy the day!