I didn't add the extra sashing, but I did make the border about 3" wide. I have finished the top, pieced the backing and have it mostly basted. The backing is cream colored fleece but it wasn't big enough so I used some of the extra strips on the back too. I'll take some pictures later when the kids pick up their toys and I have room to lay it out.
My next question is... what do you suggest for the quilting? I don't feel like the traditional diamond pattern will look good on the front. I don't have a darning foot so I can't do free motion. I'm thinking about doing a simple square outline inside each block, then maybe doing /\/\/\/\/\/\ on the borders. I'm open to suggestions!