I was more than discouraged. More like.. mildly devastated.
I kept second-guessing my (very small) abilities and entertained brief thoughts of stripping him and starting again.
After ages of not even looking at him, I decided to pick up a paintbrush again. Two strokes in, and my confidence is back.
Isn't it amazing what the smallest amount of paint can do?
Anyway, here's how he stands now:



(note: shiny bits are wet)
Still a lot of tweaking to do. Especially around his muzzle/eyes. And the ears. I've hardly touched the ears. Oh, and his nether regions. That's still a battle in progress.
My love for this pony has been restored. So cayooot! And he's still smooth! No paintbrush marks on this little boy!
*beams*