If this isn't the cutest way to start the weekend... Say it along with me, awwww. If you are an animal lover like I am, you'll want to hug and kiss Catherine's crew. Just look at these darling creatures modeling in front of some of our favorite wallpapers, including the lovely Cole & Son Cow Parsley in yellow. I love this little owl, I have always wanted to own either an owl or a trained falcon that I could send off on little missions. :) I dreamed of them as a little girl. I think in reality keeping one would not be practical for me, so I have set my heart on brightly colored finches or a lovely little blue + yellow parakeet instead. Off topic, but do you have a bird or have you ever enjoyed one as a pet? Tell me, tell me! I love the little guy shown below. He's darling!

Okay back on topic. This is the work of Californian photography Catherine Ledner who is a professional photographer with an impressive list of clients that include Vanity Fair, Travel & Leisure, and New York Times Magazine to name a few. I can't stop looking at her photos, such personality!

I can only imagine the patience and skill involved in photographing animals -- I think she must snap a thousand photos and spend days in the field to capture the perfect image. These limited edition prints range in price from $250 - 1,700. To view more of her work, please visit her website + store, Catherine's Animals where she features an array of animals from A-Z!

(photography: catherine ledner)