Happy Holidays.

A few Decembers ago, when asked about my wishes for the coming year, I remember saying that I had only one: I wanted there to be twists to the story, so that by year's end, the world looked different. That's been my wish every new year since, and I can't think of a better example of it coming true than these past twelve months. Aside from the fact that those who populate it remain the best friends and family imaginable, my world has transformed in unpredictable ways. I hardly recognize it sometimes — but I like to think that's a good sign.

 Thanks so much, as always, for sharing the journey with me.

Photos via my Instagram, or Nick Runkle's.

I'll be spending the next two weeks with family and friends in LA, Joshua Tree, and Portland, OR, and will be taking a short break from blogging until the first week of January. I'm looking forward to catching up then; in the meantime, a few links to pass the time:

 -All aboard the Jellyfish Barge.
-A winter shandy made with maple syrup and ginger beer. 
-Comparing hip hop imagery to pre-16th century art. Brilliant.
-Max's many window seats. 
-What happens when little girls make over their mothers. 
-30 Great Memoir Essays. 
-Those who weren't in NY for Emily Johnston's What It Was can now view the images on her website. -Favorite shop discoveries of 2014: 1 / 2 / 3. 
-Some of my favorite interviews of the year (and of my career) can be found here. 
-And lastly, words from Paul Coelho for the new year: You will never be able to escape from your heart. So it is better to listen to what it has to say. 

A few favorite POVs from this year: 
-On (not) asking permission.

-On the best feelings in the universe.

-On being here.

Wishing you the happiest holidays, and thanks so very much for reading. It's been a highlight of this year — and every year for the past three — having the opportunity to get to know such a wonderful and inspiring community here. Thank you for your kind words, your support, and your friendship (online and otherwise). See you in 2015.