BLINK - Outside the "Eye" Group?

In the 2 images here the first one shows a "Blink" outside the Eye Group, and displays with full eyelashes as my wife wants.  The second one shows the lashes hidden, because the Eye Group is actually on a layer below the "Face" layer.
I haven't tested her design with the blink outside the Eye Group, but told her late last night I doubt it will work.
Please help me to figure this out .... to save my marriage (not that serious .... but you never know ....!).  THANKS!