*taps microphone*

Is this thing still on? Really, it's been an ungodly amount of time since I last updated this journal, hasn't it. My sincerest apologies to my fans, friends, and watchers here. In case there was any doubt, I do still log in here, read everyone's beautiful comments, and keep up with the artwork that comes to me via my watch list. Although I've been unforgivably silent due to time constraints, I am still incredibly appreciative of everyone's support... most definitely.

Life has been keeping me incredibly busy lately -- especially my professional life. As some of you may be aware, I've spent the last wonderful year and a half working out of my home as a freelance writer and illustrator. It's been wonderful and so incredibly fulfilling, but also much more time-consuming than a normal, work-a-day job ever was. Unfortunately, I haven't had as much time for Deviant Art or similar forums as I might like. Don't even get me started on how little time I have had to work on my personal just-for-fun art and writing!

Nevertheless, I'm planning on reducing my workload somewhat in the near future, so I'm definitely hoping that will leave me much more time to create and submit here on a regular basis again. Those of you who have been enjoying my zodiac series will be pleased to know that that series is actually complete. Sharing them with you is just a matter of my finding the time to create print files for the rest of them and upload them to my gallery and print shop, so stay tuned! I also have many, many new ideas that I'm looking forward to working with and sharing as well.

I'd also like to thank everyone who has been so kindly coming to read, favorite, and comment on my poem The Lily Coat over the last couple of days. My creative writing and poetry is something I'm very proud of, but unfortunately, it definitely plays second fiddle to my artwork on this site in particular. It was nice to sign in to check my mail this afternoon only to find that particular poem getting a little love and attention at long last due to a very gracious feature from someone who was moved by my words. I would like you to know that it is very much appreciated.

Really, that's all I truly wanted to say. Like I said, I'm planning on being around much more often from now on and I am very eagerly looking forward to sharing some new pieces with all of you as well. I'll also be making more of an effort to keep this journal updated with news in regards to my artwork and also my creative writing. Thanks so much for sticking with me, for being patient, and for your unwavering support. I can't help but notice that interest in my art doesn't appear to have waned at all during my absence. Deviant Art and my watchers here have been integral when it comes to my having achieved as much as I have in recent years and I can't express my appreciation strongly enough.