Hey, I live in town, and am stuck with a modem. I COULD get a cable modem - I just can't stomach the thought of giving them $30+ each month for basic cable, then add another $30 for a modem.
I've thought about ISDN, but that's about the same price as cable. Maybe DSL will be the answer. Who do you give your money to? The cable company or the telephone company? Fortunately, I can do most things from the office. Trying to keep up with Y*h** at home on the weekends was almost impossible; this site is much better in terms of speed.
At least you have the advantage of living in the country.