I really like your block!!
Some times skipping stitches is an issue with thread weight. I might try the next size larger needle or use a topstitch needle. A topstitch needle has a bigger eye and a longer scarf and grove which helps eliminate skipped stitches.
Another option might be to try and put a piece of copy paper under the stitch line (a moist Qtip run down the seam line on the paper will soften the paper under the stitches for easy removal)
Good luck - can not wait to see the final project.