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.