Doug, sometimes we do have to compromise, and in this case I think you made the right decision. The BG isn’t that bad. You might could darken the top left are somewhat but not a deal breaker for me. I am finding the seed head that is coming into the frame on the right that is oof is a bit of distraction. Not sure what is best, cloning, cropping or just darkening slightly. Just a thought. I am really enjoying the hairy strands that caught the sweet light so well. Very well done, in my humble opinion.