Many thanks.
Allan, it is a way of dividing a canvas according to geometric proportions. It's not a foolproof method, but it helped me align significant lines in the composition to relate to the rectangle shape within which they were contained. Here is one link, although I prefer Aristides' book with her examples:
http://artiseternal.wordpress.com/20...e-proportions/
Natalie, yes, it was satisfying to see the mom's and grandma's delight with the finished product.
Thanks, Debra. I am glad you enjoy it.