It’s that time of the year again.
The time where I scramble to do something a little different for my friends and send them something that they probably don’t get too often: art.
Granted, I’m not the greatest illustrator in the world. I honestly don’t think I’m any good, but people seem to like my stuff, so this is a way for me to show them my appreciation.
For the last 7 years, I’ve been sending out holiday sketches to friends. In fact, I keep a list. It started with about 50 people. And every year, it grows exponentially…to the point where, in 2010, I LITERALLY drew 380+ of these things and mailed them all out.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s a certain sense of satisfaction that I gain from doing these, because they keep me creative and they keep me drawing…even when I really shouldn’t.
My doctor has told me that I have to cut back, or just plain stop drawing as much as I have been, because it’s not good for my arm, and its been the cause of repetitive stress injuries over the years.
So this year, I had to make a tough choice, and I had to whittle down the list to something manageable. I brought it down to 50. Then there were certain folks that I really wanted to draw something for that didn’t make the cut, and I pushed it up to 75.
Yeah, I’m starting to feel the burn, but I don’t care. I enjoy drawing for my friends. I’ll never stop that. But I’m writing this just to basically apologize to anyone who isn’t getting one this year, because I DO feel bad about it…but I do have to take care of myself, too.
So, to everyone getting a sketch (you’ll know, because I asked you for an address), I hope you enjoy them.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays, my friends.
You all made this a very good year for me.
Pat
My name is Pat Loika.
I'm a writer, illustrator and podcaster based out of San Diego, CA. I also dabble in photography and way too many other activities to list.
This is where I do my personal blogging, with random thoughts, nonsense, art and photos.
