Carol in WI, my priority with the quilt has been for the block to stand out -- after all, we spent most of our time on that! And there's a delicacy about it that allows less delicate elements to overshadow it. So in your case, I feel as though your sashing block is taking center stage in the left hand photo, and I prefer the balance in the right hand photo. But needless to say, your quilt!
Stitches23, I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope working on the mystery will be comforting for you.