I often refer to painting as 'digging in the dirt' and sometimes have to stop myself from playing around too long in the rocks and roots.

My paintings are always a surprise. The process sometimes becomes such a struggle that I am pleasantly amazed when the end result 'sings'."

I paint where I am, whether the American Southwest, Northeast, or any points in between.  To me painting is 'digging in the dirt' - occasionally very strenuous but always a marvelous privilege.