I like the white with the light blue. I think the problem may be the contrast between the 2 row sets of blocks. I think if you alternated between the 2 rows, it would come together. Your Flying Geese at the top, than 1 row of Kansas Trouble, 1 row of Kansas Dugout, 1 row of Kansas Trouble.....etc. Your blocks look very nice!
OR
If you are going with the dark blocks at the bottom for land, blue blocks above for sky and flying geese in the distance than they look PERFECT! You have mentioned applique on top and that will pull it all together. You can also do some thread painting and quilting designs to complete your design idea.