For #2, it isn't a net blur of 7px. I've combined the two versions to dial in a more subtle effect. Take a look at this:
#1 - original
#2 - 2px blur
#3 - 5px blur
#4 - 7px blur
#5 - 2px blur overlaid with a translucent 5px blur layer (opacity c. 50%)
The last one is typical of the type of overlay layer I will use. By creating a couple of options and then adjusting the translucency, I get a lot more control over the effect. I will typically do this in overlay mode so I can see the effect on the image and judge by eye.
What I like about this technique is the subtlety - achieved because the sharpening overlay is created from the image itself. You can of course use layer masks to apply it more in some areas than others. Another trick is to duplicate one or more of the overlay layers to make the effect more intense.
Wulf
ps. if the image were bigger, I would use a larger blur radius - I often try several and then see what works best for the subject matter.