Today is my last day at Reel FX. It's been a fun eight years, but it's time to move on. From here forward, it's all about getting on mic, on camera, or on stage. Thanks to everyone who has been a part of the journey so far. It's been quite a ride, and I can't wait to see what comes next!

One of the pieces that I animated several years ago ties in nicely with my feelings regarding the next phase of the journey. It's probably my favorite piece out of all the work that I did as an animator, in part because I had so much fun animating it, but also because it represents (in some small degree) the joy that I feel when I have the chance to perform. I hope that you enjoy watching it as much as I did being a part of its creation.

Change is coming

In one month, my life will change. Dramatically.

I initially discussed this change with my wife nearly a year ago, and we planned to take action at the end of last year, but it just wasn't the right time. However, after a few more months of planning and thought and prayer and work, things finally started to fall into place. I announced my plan at work on April 30th, and now it's time to share it here.

As of July 25th, I will no longer be working at Reel FX, and will be pursuing acting and voiceover (and some other creative interests) full-time.

I'm both exhilarated and terrified at the thought of what's about to happen, but as I've been telling many people recently, I can't not do this. Years ago I thought that I would be satisfied acting through animated characters. It took seven years to learn that I was wrong. I then thought that I would be satisfied working as a not-so-mild-mannered programmer by day and dabbling in voiceover on the side. It took four years to learn that I was wrong there, too. This fire is just too strong to burn "on the side." It's begging for my undivided attention, and in a month, I'll finally be able to satisfy that request.

FWIW, this blog -- and my justinanimator.com web site -- will likely change just a touch as a result of this transition, though the exact nature of that change is still unknown.  I still love programming and animation, and I'd like to think that I can keep sharing elements of those interests here, but only time will tell.  Keep an eye on this space for more info.

Let the countdown begin!