Update: my Grumbacher portrait color set arrived from Misterart.com (YAY!) I had also ordered some Canson Mi-Tientes paper in Sand, Moonstone, etc...so far I have just experimented and made some very odd artworks for me...that's broadening my scope a bit. After doing so much work in pencil, the colors are really vibrant and exciting. I have had many moments of frustration, mostly because I am used to having the control like I have with my mechanical pencil and lead holders! (control freak). I would type out a transcript of what happened and my mutterings, but it's not suitable for the internet.
I did manage to complete a halfway decent still life of some apples in a basket. Earth shattering theme, I know haha! Have a great day, everyone!