I love the style of your artwork - it seems like your took your time with it but didn't become so involved as to neglect a unique, cartoon feel. That same quality is reflected in the slow, smooth pace of the story and the animation itself.
This is the first animation you've submitted to NG, but it is clearly not the first animation you have ever done. Do you perhaps animate for work, or school or just publish through different venues?
I think this is a solid entry for the contest. Good luck, I hope it does as well as it deserves.