I followed the teaching, but went off on my own course as I often do.  She clearly stated that we would not be using the pen tool.  I did use the pen tool to create the squiggly highlights on the jacket and hat.  I also used the shape tool on my feet, legs, ears, nose and hair.  I brushed some shadows and highlights on with a soft brush set to dissolve on a medium opacity.  I finished it off with a static layer overlay to give it a softer look.  I appreciated the class and the creativity of using shapes to create these whimsical characters.