As small as lots are here in CA and as many trees/shrubs that I have planted there is no place that I can put a rain gauge any more that is not obstructed by them. If I go out and get wet I know that it is raining!
That's what I have to put up with to live in the winter here where we DON'T even have frost. Traffic and all that congestion, yes I would have to put up with if I still worked ... do not work ... so don't have to put up with that $h!≠ either.
Believe me, from this weekend until after New Years traffic will be crazy ALL day, EVERY day. Glad I do not have to go out in it other than to get my wine/booze.