Dave,
over all a good effort for sure. I think you improve with every piece.
I would agree that maybe you used a bit more paint than necessary in some spots. I think maybe just slow down and give it multiple coats if necessary. One of my biggest issues is wanting to get right in there and be done. What I find myself doing is trying to cover up areas with more and more paint to get there sooner. Heck I want to see the end result! What I have made myself do, is paint a coat, especially if it is a color that is not as opaque, I step away, let it dry and go over it again if I need to. This way I can control the medium better and in the end the layering serves to emphasize the highlight and shadow that much more. Keep up the good work, it all comes with practice, and you are certainly doing that!
Jay H.
OKC