Growing up in this town, I’ve taken many photos over the years as I’ve grown as a photographer. I’ve traveled the continents and moved away to college, but this place I call home is always here for me when I return. These are the photos that capture the silence and the calm of my home. We’re far away from it all, but we have everything we need.

Here’s the thing: this is rural Ohio. We have a lot of space and not a lot of people. Luckily, there’s a lot to find if you simply look for it. Here, one town quickly runs into the next. So while I occupy a space called “Thornville,” the various small towns that dot the landscape surrounding us, I call home as well. Life’s a little slower here. It’s simple and it’s raw. It’s home.

We’re less than an hour’s drive to our state’s bustling capital, but here, we’re away from it all. We have woods to explore, lakes to relax at, back country roads to get lost on. A lot of the beauty of our town is tucked away. It’s quiet here, but if you listen you’ll find something worth staying for.

Starting the day with a cup of coffee on the dock overlooking the lake. Geocaching and taking photos on a back road I’ve never been down. Catching up with old friends at a local restaurant. Watching the sun set over the corn fields and sitting around a bonfire to end the night.

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed about anything life throws at you, you’re never far from a place to relax and find peace.

Sometimes you just need to head into the city for a dash of culture and fun.

Strangers will ask you how you’re doing, hold open doors for you, and recognize you the next time you stop by.

I’m always inspired by Ransom Riggs and his filmmaking and collection of old photographs. I’m also reading a lot of Tyler Knott Gregson‘s new work and listening to Vance Joy.