Waterfalls, Abandonments and Ithaca

In 2016, I embarked on a journey of self-reinvention, turning my attention to the Finger Lakes after enduring a challenging period in Cleveland, Ohio. This phase had tested me to my core, marked by two years of navigating the complexities of contract work, an abrupt end to a temporary position at the Federal Reserve Bank, the ordeal of a mugging, and the chaos of living in an apartment that felt more like a prison than a home. This chapter was filled with obstacles, igniting a longing within me for the peace of nature, the intimacy of small-town life, and the liberty found in rural adventures.

With only my camera gear and a determination to forge a new direction, I steered my Subaru towards the Finger Lakes, a destination only five hours away but significantly removed from the life I was eager to leave behind. The region, with its abundance of waterfalls and historical sites, served as a refreshing change of scenery. Among these gems was Van Nattas Pumping Station in Ithaca, New York, an emblem of a bygone era that presented a stark contrast to the decline I had experienced. In this setting, surrounded by the remnants of history and nature’s unyielding advance, I discovered a deep affinity for the area.

This newfound connection was enduring, propelling me towards a significant life alteration. Driven by a newfound sense of peace and belonging, I decided to make Ithaca my new residence. By early 2017, this transformation was realized. Cleveland, with its myriad challenges and tumult, transitioned into a closed chapter of my life. In its stead, Ithaca promised a fresh beginning and the opportunity for a life enriched by the exploration and intrigue that initially attracted me to the Finger Lakes. This shift exemplified the profound impact of place in molding our paths, a concept that deeply resonates with anyone in pursuit of a fresh start.