THEY SAY WE ARE WHAT WE LOVE. If that’s true, these photos I cherished in 2015 comprised bits and pieces of the kind of person I was. Some of these photos I took and some are others’ depictions of empowering moments for me this past year.

All are photos that inspired me, made me smile, and, not to get sassy, made me proud to own me. 2015 was one of the first years during which I have truly sensed a change for the better in myself.

WARNING: SUPER-RANDOM CONTENT AHEAD.

My Dog and My Work Tools, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Boyfriend-given Mickey Mouse Bandaids, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Makeup-less Adele, Photo via Rolling Stone

2nd Ave F train Exit Mural, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, Photo via Entertainment Weekly

Gwyneth Paltrow, aka “GOOP,” as a coaster, © 2015 Lillian Gao

A Predator/Yautja in the East Village, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Daisy Johnson aka “Quake” on Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD, Photo via ABC

New York Street Hustle, © 2015 Lillian Gao

My 1st Encounter with a Teacup Vietnamese Potbellied Pig, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Bobbi Morse aka “Mockingbird” on Marvel’s “Agents of Shield,” Photo via Comic Book Resources

Mixed Media Artwork by Christopher G. Asberry, © 2015 Lillian Gao

Taylor Swift’s Cat Eye-Side Eye, Photo via Variety

Stuffed Bunny Wearing a Rosary, © 2015 Lillian Gao

The Walking Dead Season 6 Collage, Photo via AMC

There is so, so much more, but I wanted to narrow it down to just the favorite of the favorites.