It's probably no consolation at this point, but you could have rented an electric hammer from Home Depot or an equipment rental place with a wide chisel that would have made short order of that floor. I'm getting the early twinges of old Uncle Arthur-itis myself, and I have started finding methods easier on my joints. I would have also pulled the cabinet & toilet to save myself the frustration that comes with hand chiseling around objects, and would have been done with that floor in one session. As for the toilet, an old towel wrapped in a couple of plastic shopping bags will keep the sewer gas from escaping. I have plugs for everything from 1-1/4" to 4" pipe, but they're usually buried somewhere and can't find them until the job is over.
I ordered new Pella Architectural series windows for the downstairs West elevation, which should be delivered 9-21-15. Once installed, I will be removing the tile backsplash and replacing it with something more compatible with the white cabinets and black granite counters. Like your floor, there's nothing wrong with it, other than it now looks out of place. I've been holding off this project until I replace the windows, which will entail removing the entire units and installing new construction windows and new casings that the tile will go up against.
As for children's input into design considerations, it is NOT permitted unless they are paying for it, which will never happen. Besides, they're all on their own and don't have to look at it every day. YMMV, based on your willingness to be abused by multiple women.