It's hard to believe that only a few years ago I was just getting comfortable with drawing and painting. It was (and still is, because I am still learning) both wonderful and frustrating.

Around 2012, Alan and I partnered on the design of a piece that we would convert from an image to a fabric print to an actual product. It was scary and rewarding all at once - because I was new to illustration and the proceeds would go to benefit the World Wildlife Fund. It was also heartbreaking to research so many animals and plants that were critically endangered - if not extinct. The totes sold out, and we still sell the print today, with a donation to WWF.

As I work on more pieces for an animal-related benefit, I'm reminded of how far I've come as an artist - and how far I have to go.