I hope you know deep in your heart that this is a gorgeous quilt. You put an immense amount of effort into it and I hope your friend pays you a pretty penny for it since it will not be hers to keep. This was truly a labor of love...a love for quilting that shines bright in the end. Not many would pursue something uncomfortable and see it to the end. About the balance thing...I think it is quite balanced. "No place for the eye to rest.."? Don't understand that one as there was so much white space that it didn't give you the feeling of being fussy at all. It's kinda interesting how the dark side pulls you in to explore more details. Wonderful quilt!!