This is going to be a beautiful quilt. I think they all go through that "growing pains" stage for a while (at least they do for me!), where you don't quite like it but can't figure out why.
I really appreciate reading all the advice you've been given as it will be helpful to me too.
You've done a lovely job on it, and I can't wait to see the finished quilt! Your DIL will love it.