I should be thanking you for replying so quickly.
I see. I actually didn't expect that, because I've always imagined great pixel artists were already making wonders from the get-go. An exaggeration, I admit. But I don't think it's far from the truth.
You must have practiced quite a lot since starting off. I admire that. Frankly, I wish I had enough vigor myself to keep on producing work. I've always deemed what I make as too shabby to even share. xD
As for me, I never went past the neophyte stages. I don't think I have what it takes to be a pixel artist yet. I love seeing good pixel art (even fusions) nevertheless. I don't have much to say about them, most of the time, because I don't really know much yet, haha. I should get off my lazy butt and practice.
I see you really haven't posted much recently in dA, now that you mention it. I wish you luck on school, and I hope that doesn't hinder you from doing what you do. :)