Virginia has more miles of unpaved secondary roads than any other state, and I suspect most are in the rural parts west of the Blue Ridge. The landscape there is dotted by a multitude of family farms. No large town, and many general stores contribute to a friendly atmosphere, making it a pleasure to explore. This image was taken from the driver’s seat as I toured Shenandoah County. A light snowfall against some dimly lit accouterments of a rustic farm added to my romantic view of a rugged life.

Canon EOS-6D, Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM lens (at 57mm), 1/166s at f/5, ISO 100; automatic white balance. Post processing included saturation, contrast and lightness.