Chris...this is beautiful! Your daughter is, too!! What is your source for the paper? I looked in a couple of slightly older catalogues, and couldn't find it. I AM a pastellist who likes to blend and smooth (check out my only critique submission so far, titled MARYLYNN IN PASTEL), so I'd be real interested in trying this paper. I too prefer a toned paper to work on...not only do I enjoy working in dark and mid tones, but I like to work in highlights, too. The toned paper seems to make the colors really "POP"! Also, thanks for this input on the pastel medium...I find that not enough is posted here for the pastellist, so when I DO see something regarding pastels, I "eat it up"! Take care!