The only reason I never AA is because I don't find it fun, or artistical... It's more geometrical, and not fun at all. I don't do anything if I don't find it fun ^^
For those that attempt pixel art and think this way, I have this to say - You're lazy. Your stuff will always be on a lower plane that of your pixel heroes. Good art takes hard work and dedication. If a concept can be fully rendered without serious polishing work put into it, how much merit can it have? Potential wasted.
I honestly thought your werecrow, when you first posted it, was halfway done - shapes all roughed in, things still looking very mirrored, all pixels looking rough, strays needing cleaned. Yet it's on PJ already.
These are only my opinions. But they're principles I live by, too.
Would love to to do a makeover edit of your werecrow, because I love the character, and I think I'd maybe convince you to put a little more work into your stuff, but don't feel I can take the time right now.
(prinny, dood, whuh? Turn that text in yer sig to a link homey. Last post on yer porty is a quote of your OP, BTW)