paintinghair forthe tabletless

So um my first attempt at painting a tail.. [link] Its horrid. Lol. I deperately need tips xD Buddy Horse on HL recommended you. She said you've been giving her advice on painting manes and tails. I noticed after doing all the highlights that the main tail color is lighter then the 'upp color'. Maybe that has something to do with it.. And I need tips on how to make the tips better