processing advice wanted

I've started to develop a taste for the kind of photography that I prefer. And I've come to realize that I'm not really a fan of over done HDR imaging, and over processed photos. Slight contrast and color treatment, ok. Cropping, ok. But not even the best photo editing can save a poorly composed photo. My distaste is also influenced by the fact that I've never really messed with editing, since my photos have been produced by a humble point and shoot. But, I figure if I'm going to start using a dslr, I should start trying my hand at it. That said, I tried messing around with iPhoto (advanced photo geeks don't judge), and tried editing one of my favorite pictures from this year.

The original


Edited version

Your feedback and constructive criticism, please.