Backyard

Let me preface this post by saying...I'm not entirely exaggerating when I refer to this as my new backyard. It's a 10 minute drive from my apartment and a reasonably timed hike for the rare occasion I wear my yoga pants to actually like, exercise. 

On a Sunday night whim, a couple friends and I ventured up to the Griffith Observatory to take in the view and the last few hours of the weekend. It was one of those aimless summer evenings. Our night at Griffith felt like summer the same way that drinking too much Pinot Grigio on the staircase of my un-air conditioned college apartment felt like summer. Moments like this embody that intangible characteristic of the season...but have become too few and far between lately.

Next to us at the top of the observatory was a young couple admiring the view. One of them was visiting from Paris for the week, so my friends and I subconsciously stepped up our LA-game, reciting the names of streets like a scene right out of The Californians. There was even a heated debate about whether or not the bright light running down the center of the city is in fact Western Avenue—jury/Google Maps is still out if anyone would like to lend some geographic expertise. 

And as we loudly pointed and squealed when we recognized a landmark, the dreamy French boyfriend (note: not just an archetype used for the dramatization of this blog post) stood in awe at our extensive, probably misguided, knowledge of Los Angeles.

It was a weird moment. Because, atop a big hill filled with buses of tourists...I felt unusually at home. Somehow, even after moving to the opposite side of town, I'm still in love with this dysfunctional city.

And yeah, it doesn't hurt that I have a telescope in my backyard.

Color Swap

Lately, I've been playing around with more black and white shots. Although I'm still shooting in color, during my editing process I'll often find I like the b&w version better. It's a simple color swap that can make a world of difference. And while the next step is actual b&w film, that's a whole other ball game.

P.S. Here's the color version of this record store gem. Hipster dads—they get me every time. #LA

Will Return

You know when you get caught up crossing things off your to-do list, neurotically checking emails, doing cultural ish, obsessing over the perfect insta filter for your b-b-basic photo, causing trouble before noon on Saturdays, and suddenly you look up and BAM it's the middle of April and you're like...my wall calendar still says it's January.

WELL, I hope you know what I mean. And while it's highly unlikely you can relate to all of the above, that's been my life lately. Time is passing far too quickly and I'm not sure I have much more to show for myself other than this Tumblr I created on a whim because...who doesn't need ONE more social network to update!?

But in all seriousness, as of late, I've been putting a lot more time into my photography and it's something I'm pretty excited about. Hobbies are good. This one forces me out of my apartment when I feel like sleeping in 'til 2pm noon. I'm finally exploring new parts of LA every week. And it's taken me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible.

TGIF.

Fine Line

The first photo was a product of the wind and the right moment on my self-timer. And I know what you're all probably thinking. It's walking a very fine line between cool and Cousin Itt. Which is fine, because Cousin-I definitely had his moment in the '60s and is making a comeback. I can feel it.

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Outfit Details:

Reformation Cali Dress

Cameo Necklace

TOMS Sunglasses

GUESS Gold Watch

Madewell Glasgow Satchel

GUESS Denim Jacket

Heeled Sandals

Pinned

If I wore every outfit I pinned, I'd have really fabulous mom jeans, probably live in Stockholm, and magically look put together riding my fixie bike around all day. But the reality is (like most things on Pinterest) I very rarely recreate my style inspiration boards in real life. Except when Kate Bosworth makes '90s flannel look cool again...then I'll reconsider.

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Outfit Details:

J. Crew Plaid Shirt

Madewell Tee

TOMS Sunglasses

Madewell Black Jeans

GUESS Gold Watch

Madewell Glasgow Satchel 

Madewell Black Ankle Boots

Now // Next

I had a very interesting conversation this week about the idea of how a single moment or meeting can completely change the direction of your life. How for every million mundane moments that don't have a significant impact, there's that one that changes everything. That one hand of cards (if I'm going to get all metaphorical) where you just get lucky. And I think I often go about my life hoping for that moment—often to a fault. It's a very romantic view of the world that constantly idealizes the future. Once this happens, everything will change. etc. etc. etc. 

The past month or so, I've been living in a bit of a limbo. Waiting for the "next big thing"—the next big change that will drastically change my day-to-day and everything about my life. But in the midst of hoping and anticipating for a change, I've kind of lost the now. Which is unfortunate since I often find myself (internally) scolding people who only live in the future tense. Three weeks 'til this vacation; 6 months 'til this promotion; 1 year 'til this graduate school. It always feels like a waste of the present.

But the truth is, I'm just as guilty if not guiltier than all the rest. I think a slight discontentment with my current situation (even though Thought Catalog and every other millennial publication tells me I'm not alone) has led me to project everything on the next. And yes, maybe, hopefully something great is right around the corner. But regardless of what the future holds, I need to appreciate the present tense.

I know it's easier said than done. But, if nothing else, I think it's worth acknowledging. That's a whole lot better than nothing...right?

City Scenes

Ever since my photography class started back up a few weeks ago, I've been exploring Downtown LA more than usual. On our first session, we spent 3 hours walking around the city and I was able to look at it in a different light. Weekends in Downtown are strange because they lack the weekday crowds and can feel a bit quiet, but there's still a strong energy around the city. I've always loved shooting different street scenes and the DTLA colors and light made it easy to capture some special moments.

Rooftop Blues

These photos were taken during my rooftop excursion. I tend to avoid taking blog photos at night, but I love how rich the colors turned out in these. It almost looks like I planned my outfit to match the vibrant blue sky and city lights. I'm definitely your average Type A...but I can't take credit for this happy accident.

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Outfit Details:

Ruche Floral Bomber Jacket

Madewell Grey V-Neck

Paige High Rise Flares

GUESS Classic Gold Watch

Madewell Glasgow Satchel

Banana Republic Tan Sandals

Full Moon

Last week, I went to Santa Monica after work with every intention of doing some shopping and running a few errands. There's a parking lot a little off the main promenade that has a great view of the city, so whenever I'm in the area I try to park on the top level to catch the view—especially around sunset.

As it turns out, on this particular night my errands were perfectly timed with a gorgeous sunset and full moon. So gorgeous, that I didn't wind up running any errands that night or even leaving the parking garage at all. Which is kind of a big deal, since there was a sale at Madewell and I had grand plans to buy something I didn't need at Anthropologie. (I may be the only person who plans their impulse shopping, but we all have our things.) Instead of shopping to fill some unexplained "void" that had been nagging me all week, I spent a good hour enjoying the view and taking photos. And I felt...unusually at peace. 

Working can be tough. Postgrad life can be weird and confusing. I often find myself dramatically alternating between feeling inspired and dissatisfied—sometimes even within the same day. There are some weeks where checking "return jeans" or "pick up almond milk" off my iPhone To-Do list feels like my biggest accomplishment. But then there's moments like this...

...where genuine happiness (somehow) comes in the form of taking photos alone on top of a Santa Monica parking garage on a Thursday night.

Coffee Talk

I walked into my favorite coffee shop this morning (or let's be honest, this afternoon...because weekend mornings don't really exist in my book) to find that the power was out. Of course, my first general reaction was panic because I have a strange attachment to this Saturday ritual and can't function without my mid-afternoon double Americano and wheat bagel.

But panic aside, I noticed something different in the air. I've been coming to this coffee shop the past six months and it's a funny little place. There's no WiFi (which these days has got to be some sort of social statement) and is a tiny shop with a handful of rickety cafe tables cramped together. From what I've observed, it's usually filled with awkward/wonderful first dates (I've eavesdropped on them all), "industry people" brainstorming new screenplays, or simply good friends catching up. I spend most of my time in line just observing the different groups, and it's always interesting to see the 10+ different conversations–or worlds, rather—coexisting in such a small space.

But, today felt different. I must have walked in right as the power had shut off, because the room was buzzing with conversation. And not separate conversations. But instead, integrated and commingling chatter. That's right. Believe it or not...in the middle of LA on a Saturday afternoon...strangers were actually talking to each other. And if you haven't lived in LA before let me tell you, that's a pretty strange sight. It felt like some sort of social wall had been broken. It was refreshing, and a random moment in time that got me thinking my whole walk home and compelled me to open up a new post and start rambling.

I can't confirm with any historical data, but I'm pretty sure there was a world before electricity or cell phones or all this new-fangled technology. And, it was probably buzzing with a lot of great coffee talk among strangers and friends.

P.S. That photo wasn't taken at my neighborhood spot...but I've been too busy 'gramming important things like flowers and beaches and bikes to think to snap a photo of my Saturday afternoon Americano.

Food. Friends. Wine.

Over the past couple years, I've become quite the oenophile. And not necessarily a snobby one, just more a connoisseur of the-best-cabs-under-$15 / newly-minted member of Club W (p.s. highly recommended) type. A few weekends ago, I spent the day picnicking at Malibu Wines with a few of my best friends and it was the perfect Sunday escape. Plus, it was a great opportunity get a little dressed up and pull out one of my favorite maxi dresses that I've been holding onto since my freshman year of college. Hoarding comes in handy every once in a while.

Food, Friends, (Fashion), Wine is currently my version of Eat, Pray, Love and I'm feeling pretty good about it.

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Outfit Details:

Anthropologie Printed Maxi Dress

Forever 21 Kimono Cardigan

TOMS Bellini Sunglasses

Etsy Gold Wishbone Necklace

Nixon Kensington Leather Watch

Anthropologie Brown Leather Bag

Cathy Jean Leather Wedges

For Granted

A few weekends ago, one of my best friends from home came to LA, so we decided to stop by Hotel Erwin's rooftop bar in Venice. I hadn't been since summer and had forgotten what a great spot it is. I felt like sporting a more retro look, so I pulled out my new flared jeans and paired them with a vintage blouse I snagged from my mom. I usually stray away from too many trends in one outfit, but I liked the 70s vibe of the flares and pastel blouse together. I didn't exactly fit in with the rest of the bar crowd, but a freelance photog did ask me to pose for a picture so...success?

P.S. The #1 thing LA people take for granted is views like this—in January.

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Outfit Details:

Vintage Pink Silk Blouse

Paige High Rise Canyon Jeans

TOMS Bellini Sunglasses

Etsy Gold Wishbone Necklace

GUESS Classic Gold Watch

Fossil Preston Crossbody Bag

Seychelles Nude Mules

The Commute

I may be one of the few people out there who doesn't mind my Westside to DTLA commute. Granted, anything over an hour will turn me into a crazy person, but there's something relaxing about the 45 minute drive I make to and from work. It's a time I use to brainstorm new ideas, listen to music (I generally avoid the radio, which makes me somewhat pop-culture illiterate...but I'm working on it.) and yes, occasionally wallow in a steady rotation of twenty-something crises (career, creativity, cheap dates...you get the idea). Or door number four: completely disconnect and do nothing but pay attention to the road ahead. Literally—and maybe even figuratively. I try to think it's not time wasted...although if I was proactive I would have probably learned 3 new languages on Rosetta Stone by now.

The notion of wasted time has been on my mind a lot lately. And a daily commute is really only a tangible representation of it. But as of late, I've been making a concerted effort—which entails constantly reminding myself that it's OKAY—to alter my perception of what often feels like treading water. Because maybe it's not "treading water" if I'm learning along the way.

Side note: Last week, I took a detour through Downtown to meet a friend for drinks and was caught in the worst traffic ever. After I hadn't moved in 3 green lights, I decided to pull out my camera and take a moment to appreciate the city moving around me. Call it a perfect coincidence, but there's something kind of poetic (and ironic) about the movement on the street contrasted by the rows of people stuck in their cars, probably on their evening commutes—not moving. Or worse...wasting time.

P.S. I wrote this post here. It's my attempt at making LA more European. Jury's still out on whether the dramatic cultural shift will actually happen or if I'm just a girl blogging in a bar.

Urban Oasis

On my recent trip to the flower district, I also stopped by an orchid shop that felt like an urban greenhouse—a little oasis in the middle of the city. My new bag fit right in, and the foliage brought out the green hues in one of my favorite vintage scarves. I decided to keep the rest of my look simple, sticking with my tried-and-true shift dress + ankle boots combo.

On another note, this weekend was equally as fun and "LA" as the last. Some weekends seem to fly by and all I can really recollect is waking up at noon, making almond toast, and walking to Trader Joe's. But others—like this one—feel like a mini-time warp where I conveniently forget that Monday is waiting on the other side.

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Outfit Details:

Madewell Grey Shift Dress

Vintage Brown Printed Scarf

TOMS Bellini Sunglasses

GUESS Classic Gold Watch

Coordinates Collection Bracelet

Fossil Preston Crossbody

H&M Black Sweater Tights

Madewell Brown Ankle Boots

City Gem

I rarely buy flowers when I go to the Downtown Flower District, but it's always fun to browse and people watch on my lunch break. Luckily, I had my DSLR in tow on my latest visit, so I was able to capture more of the flower mart than usual. I love photographing large city scenes, and this was the perfect place to snap the same general subject from a bunch of different perspectives. I also fell in love with this green brick wall on my way out. Something about the corroding paint juxtaposed by the fresh flowers was unusually beautiful to me.

It really is a LA gem.

(P.S. Obviously, my love for flowers does not end here.

It's no secret I love a good floral print. Or bouquet-for-no-reason.)