Hey JosiahBrooks, it really is an awesome book!
besides that book, my other favourite is Maya 6 - Complete Ref.!
Unfortunatly I cannot assit you with that at this point in time,
I haven't reached that chapter yet. By the time i get there
I will have to ask you some questions 
Did you try modeling the creature yet?
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another render, Cheers!
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"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep - Scott Adams"
<b>Toxic Bunny</b>