About a week ago, I posted this:

In July of 2007, I drew this:

This most recent time around, I was drawing Emma Frost simply because I felt like it. I did a sketch of a woman during some free time, and her mood reminded me of Emma, so I ran with it. What I didn't realize at the time was that the last time I drew Emma (my favorite X-Man) was almost exactly 6 years ago. Looking at the two pieces, I don't think most would ever realize they're from the same artist.
It's easy to be critical of our own work. In order to get better, we
have to be. You need to be able to see your own flaws in order to know what to improve upon. However, when we do well, it's also important to take some pride in it. I was proud of my most recent portrait of Emma. I learned a ton in terms of technique while working on it, and honestly thought it was my best work to date.
... but seeing it side by side with my last attempt at portraying Emma, I'll admit... I'm even more proud now. I've worked hard, especially in the past 2-3 years, and I think I have some proof that it is finally paying off.
Now somebody remind me that I have to draw Emma again in July of 2019.