Soft and lovely, Michele. You have captured a beautiful moment. Don't tell me that there aren't some teeth gritting moments working with kids which you have managed not to show !

Even 15 minutes from life is important to get that color reference, you can observe what the camera has left out.

Sincerely,

Just
I heard
God said
Let there be light
Then, there is life
More light is more life
Rachel
Your mother is your light
You are her life!

I'm surprised I missed this one. Absolutely beautiful, and I agree with Jeff about the light source. I also see it being more important that she is the focal point. I believe you have easily surpassed the piece that inspired you.

I've made some changes (moved candle reflection, changed relative brightness of sides of face so left side doesn't come too far forward as it used to, etc.)