First retouching job ever

[neuchy]

Ok so I came across this free retouching soft the other day (Zoner Photo Studio 13).
I started tweaking stuff here and there I thought I might as well give it a go. Keep in mind this is my first retouching job ever. Constructive criticism is more than welcome.
Let me know what are my main weaknesses and what I should try to work on.
If you see major incoherency somewhere please let me know.
I feel like it looks too much of a painting. I wasn't able to fix the hair at the bottom right (still too much of a rookie) and the skin doesn't look as smooth as I wanted it to be.

Without further ado here's my first retouching job ever:

Original Picture:
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/1050/...523122760l.jpg

Retouched Picture: http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/105...523122760l.jpg

[rsieminski]

Besides it being underexposed, what's wrong with the original? IMO, that image would need minimal retouching. Proper use of ACR could produce a much better image. Where did the catchlight go?

[iDad]

I think if as you said it's your first go at retouch, it's a good reason to be proud. (showing your work)
My Constructive criticism would be stick with it......most retouches always see something that is missed or over done. All image work is VERY subjective. It's what "you"prefer that really matters, unless it's a customers preference good luck