God made the country, and man made the town.  ~ William Cowper, The Task

Today I got to drive across the Central Valley along Highway J17, a trip we take  often to eat and shop in civilization, since we live about 20 miles out into the countryside.

The winter clouds, rain, and blustery wind are here, but so are the winter greenery and moments of sunshine make it bearable.  Lots of simple beauty in the open countriside.