I just figured I'd post my work, from beginning to current, and see how you guys think I am progressing

I only started really using the GIMP a month or two ago, and so I think I'm progressing pretty fast, considering college taking up most of my time and all. Anyway, enough typing-- to the images!!
(I'll link to the wallpapers to cut down load time.)
I don't really like this one, but a couple people I showed it do did, so take a gander:
One of my first images that went decently is my current sig. Since I'll probably change it soon I'll link to it here:
Cremia Sig
This is pretty simple, but a cool effect I think. My goal wasn't really to change this one all that much, so all I've done is make the BG black and white. Any other editing has credit elsewhere.
This wallpaper came out
okay, but I plan to improve upon it eventually.
DragonQuestVIII Wallpaper
I made this sig from a tut I got here

the name of the person who did the tut escapes me, but thanks to them!
I also changed
this to
this (yeah, thats me

)
and, finally my newest piece of work that I am
exceptionally proud of:
Halloween Wallpaper
Tell me what you think
If you really like the DragonQuest wall (tho I doubt it...) you can use it, but PLEASE do not use the halloween wall because I made that specifically for my boyfriend.
On a side note- does anyone know a good technique to make a watermark?