I really didn't intend to start this project when I did.  I was experimenting with paper prep to avoid having to purchase Pastel Paper (and then wait for it to arrive).  I wound up being mostly satisfied with using card stock (navy blue in this case) coated with an even layer of clear gesso.  It at least gave me something to start playing with the pan pastels on and the start of collecting notes about what I can use from the stash I've already got to do the mark making as well as notes about marks and compostion.     I'm having so much fun!