Monkey D. Luffy and Spanky

Thanks Adam for critique on darker shadings. Don't know they are as dark as he'd suggested, but I like where it's at.
I really like the sand. All by hand. Didn't think I could get it at all. Is this my first attempt at clouds? I think it is. A lot of first here. I like back lighting... dunno why. [link] I guess I like to light my characters' buttocks on fire.
But I think I am doing better with the bounce/reflective lighting, and instead of just using opacity layers with black/white to do shadows and highlights I braved my fear and did colors instead. The smudge tool helped out too, I hate it, but it works wonders for shadows. Was going to put one more translucent layer besides the flags both customized, showing a pirate map like on the intro to the show, but I think I will save that for another character; plus why would I cover up all that work I did with the beach.
That would be a bonehead move.[link]
Progression:
1 [link]
2[link] also fan fiction story here.
3[link]

Hoorah for friskets!