I think your blocks are delightful. Yup, I hope to make OBW a handsewing project after the first of the year when I retire. I have read - somewhere - perhaps on this board - that the right hand side of the printed fabric is usually in alignment. Some people just use only the right hand side after cutting the fabric in half lengthwise.
In any case, your work is beautiful. What size triangles are you cutting? You mentioned the triangles for the bird print were large. Have you found an optimum size for your second endeavor?
Much happiness to you and your family :)