Thank you
First off, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who sent in well wishes. It's been wonderful to hear from so many supportive folks. Some of you even shared your own experiences battling cancer, which was very moving. It has really been a hell of a time over here, and it means a lot. I know we have a long road ahead of us, but Jesi is ready to fight and beat this thing. (And I'm ready to do whatever I can to help.)
For today's update, I thought I'd share this Scooby Doo parody that I drew for my Patreon last year. It features Sam and Fuzzy, as well as classic era S&F cast members Aaron, Alexa and Andrea. I added some dialogue and a logo because only now, over a year later, did I think of calling him "Foozy-Doo". True genius takes time! Or something.
(Incidentally, the original inked artwork for this Scooby Doo parody piece is one of the ones currently available via my art sale, if you particularly like it.)
Thank you again, everyone, for all your support. We really appreciate it.
-Sam
Personal Update
Hi, friends. I know I have not historically talked about my personal life much here on the site. But my wife Jesi has given me the go ahead to let you all know what's been going on over here for the last little while.
Unfortunately, what is going on is that Jesi has cancer. It was really not the result any of the doctors were expecting when we started doing precautionary tests, so it is hard not to feel blindsided by it all. Since getting the diagnosis, things have been pretty chaotic, with medical appointments happening on a daily basis at different locations all over town. Honestly, we have been so busy, I feel like I've barely even had enough time to think about how scary it all is.
The good news is: we have a treatment plan in place now that will be starting up soon, and the doctors are feeling optimistic about it. But it's going to be a long and difficult process.
As we have gone through this, there have been many times where making comics has been exactly what I've needed. Making art brings me joy, and I like trying to make Jesi laugh. (Which has undoubtedly also influenced the kind of comics I've been making.)
But at other times, making any kind of art has just been a real struggle. Things have been so crazy... we are often just incredibly busy with very little notice. And obviously, my number one priority is going to be doing whatever I need to do to help take care of Jesi and get them through this.
So, I'm going to give myself some grace. For now, I'm going to keep posting on my usual schedule, but some of it will probably be unusual content or reruns of older comics. I am just going to play it by ear as needed and allow myself to not worry about it.
I just want to thank you all in advance for understanding. I know you all will! You are the best readers a cartoonist could have. Jesi and I both really appreciate all your support, especially now. This is going to be a rough time, but I know we can get through it.
Take care, everyone.
-Sam
Snow Day
This one's definitely a little abstract, but sometimes you just have to follow your muse!
Meanwhile, Topatoco has posted their ordering deadlines for all you USA folks wanting to nab some of my swag in time for Christmas! They are:
We are sadly past the point where we can guarantee pre-xmas arrival for our non-US buyers... but just tell 'em it'll be fashionably late! Right?
See you next week, friends.
-Sam