They're a bit expensive, but you should try prismacolor coloured pencils. They're really the best coloured pencils out there and are great for blending. If you want to get even more subtle, you could try watercolour coloured pencils. Just brush a little water over the page, and it turns into paint!
Also, your happy Janus = win.
Another also: Join the oekaki! Link to it is on the left side of the screen, just below Forums/IRC.