I like your version better. I see now, you replaced 3 of the larger beads and a few smaller beads. Looks good.

Sure, I do that all the time. I buy my filler beads at thrift stores to use with the more expensive beads I buy elsewhere. Small accent beads can be hard to find when you need them so I try to have an assortment available in my stash.

I know, it can take some time to string one's beads into a wearable piece. I have some necklaces years in process. It's good to wear them once in awhile.