Thanks Chris... having trouble typing since I have a surgical glove on...LOL.
http://forum.portraitartist.com/show...0&pagenumber=5
I do have Wendy's book, had no idea they were married. I think her book is good, but pat you on the back, your's is the best.
I do make my little marks, and try and start with a palette on the actual paper, it always ends up changing, then I have all these pastels I never use, so I thought if there was a trick it might be easier to use those provided than creating mixed color. But it sounds like the rule of thumb here is to just learn by doing.
As my favorite quote in your book, by one of your teachers or you, can't remember (para-phrasing here)....." doesn't matter how many classes you take or who teaches you, you have to draw everday!"