Beginnings with Faber-Castell Colored Pencils

I've been working with the Faber-Castell colored pencils I received for Christmas.  They are so much more versatile than other colored pencils.  There are so many ways to use them and, after much experimentation, I am focusing on using blending stumps dipped in paint thinner.  This method gives a smooth color that I find pleasing.  Here are a few of my early attempts.