I find myself much more drawn to this picture than the challenge entry as well. The post processing makes a huge difference to me: in this one the white space looks intentional, and in the other it looked accidental. This is a gentle and soothing image (and more impressive to me for you use of white, which I am forever afraid to use!).
I like the blue pass on this version Paul. The only thing that bothers me a tad is that there's hints of a slight orange/red color from the leaves. Since this is a high key image, I suggest using a frame to keep the eye from wandering elsewhere. Great job!
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