Ashes is just that, in my opinion. I got him years ago and really didn't think he was the most pretty snake in my collection. I sort of just dutifully fed him, handled him sometimes, etc.. but never made a fuss iver him. I am not saying I neglected him, but I think you know what I mean; you get newer snakes sometimes and the old "standby" ones tend to get outshined.
Well I have looked at Ashes lately, and he is really starting to look a bit better. He is developing this nice blushing in between the light parts of his pattern. I am glad I held onto him; he also has an awesome "temperament" when compared to my two headwhy adopted BPs, or my flighty female, Bela.
Thus, I have given Ashes my coveted "Avatar Award" for the time being. Incidentally, his coloration is really more like that of the Avatar pic; he really is not as high-gold as this next pic makes him look! But the pic below is newer, and you can see the blushing spots that appeared since the avatar pic was taken enarly a year ago.
Here's to ugly ducklings!