Comic for Thursday March 14th, 2005

"Spirit 200" Wednesday - March 17th, 2005

The moment you and I have been waiting for has finally arrived!! I hope you enjoyed this one. Despite the extra work that went into it, I had a ton of fun drawing this one. That's a whopping 20 panels to celebrate the 200th strip of Ninja Spirit!! I even snuck in a couple of animated panels in there as well. Just so you get a bit of everything. I suppose Yuki's fight might have left you a bit disappointed. You should also probably know that everything happens for a reason in comics so you shouldn't fret just yet. You might be fretting for Tom though as he faces what could possibly be the one thing that he isn't able to handle or is mentally able to handle. Just how it plays out will come through next week so don't worry about having to wait too long for the outcome of the fight.

Well what can I say about the journey so far. You might not have realized it, but not only does Spirit 200 arrive in style on St Patty's Day, but it was pretty much 2 years and a day ago that this comic was started. It's been a crazy, crazy trip and not only has my desire to tell this story not dimmed, but I'm still having a blast doing it. I never would've thought I was capable of making this thing 2 times a week and keep it consistently on time for the better part of two years. It just isn't my nature.

I also want to say I am pleased as hell to see so many people get such a kick out of this comic. When I started this comic, I did it for myself as a hobby and a love. However, I have to say that as the readership grows I feel that I have been able to keep updating on time thanks to everyone who cares to read this comic. It's because of all of you and your interest and I daresay passion for this comic that gives me the extra motivation to keep it on schedule. Though I know NS is an unknown in the jungle of a world that is webcomics, I am know there is a readership and I have to say that as friends and fans of this comic, you guys are a pretty amazing group. Thank you for every kind word you've said, or for every new person you've gotten hooked on this comic. I do things like this huge sized strip for you guys.

I also want to have a special shout out to all of the regulars in the NS forum. I seriously think you guys have created something special in terms of a nice community. It's small, and despite the small lapses in posts at times, you guys are in there every day hammering stuff out. It's really a highlight for the day for me to go in there and see a bunch of new posts. You guys are friends of the comic in every sense of the word. ashleigh's not around much, but she was THE original NS fan and I thank her for that. SeiTin, you were the king of one line posts and while you drove me crazy at times with them, you probably kept the forum kicking just by yourself at times so thanks. EvilShiva, again another member that hasn't been around in a while, but I did love the wit and wisdom from across the pond. Best of luck in your future comic endeavors. StratusFox, the board hasn't been the same without you and your Diamondback lovin ways. I mean the Giants will still win the west, but anyone who's passionate about baseball kicks ass in my book. Modest Iko, jesus man... the king of posting in the forum. You got some real gems in there that have cracked me up and still do. menion... is it weird to think of you as the voice of reason in the forum? Your deadpan like one liners after a Noshiko rant kill me. Runaway, you're just a crazy cat to have around. You make the forum less than safe and I mean that in a good way. bigpapa and r1dethemter0... the couple of the NS boards. I'm glad you got into the comic cause it led you into the forum where you both have become a vital part of the community. Also to anyone I'm forgetting I'm sorry, but my brain is shot after the monster comic you see above this.

Of course there are still the real people in my life that have helped me with this comic in a variety of ways. Some of you have been here since the beginning and yet others have joined along the way. Though Joe isn't in the US now, his presence is always felt. George has been a friend and fellow artist for some time and plus without him there's no Marissa and she's another fun person to have around. Rob is like the sounding board for this comic since I always wait to see what he's got to say about the comic the day after I post it. Many an idea has been born or nixed thanks to his input. There's also the photoshop hints too. I owe Dave for getting me to Otakon last year and this we'll be going back again this year. My best friend over the net Ruby is like a rock and I'm always glad when she shares her thoughts.

Oh and the biggest person I always have to thank is the wonderful tHE kELLY. Seriously if it wasn't for her there's wouldn't be a comic half the time. Someone has to take care of the real me when I sit here for hours every week drawing this thing. She puts up with all my bull shit and keeps me healthy, clean, fed, and happy. So when you think about the comic next time, know that this is and always will be a two person gig.

So is that it? NO WAY!! Not only do we have Spirit 300 to look forward to, but the Spirit 200 celebration continues throughout this week. Look for some goodies and surprises to show up throughout the week and weekend, including a sneak peek at the new limited edition poster to commemorate the 2nd batch of 100 strips of NS. Now might be a good time to remind everyone that if you want to enter a free contest to win one, you have until this Saturday to click on the Battle of Spirit button above and jump on the entry page and enter. The Battle of Spirit begins on Tuesday next week so be sure to vote for your favorites each weekday!!

That's about all I got for you now... Again thanks and I swear new voting pictures will be up soon!! Thanks for reading and have a great St Patrick's Day!!!

River says erin go braugh an drink one for Spirit 200!!!

Vote for Ninja Spirit!!