Thanks also for the kind comments about the afghan and I'd be glad to share the details. Here's a link to the pattern, which is available for free. It's called the Easy Ripple Afghan, and it is really is easy and fast too.
I'm using Lion Brand Cotton-Ease and a 4.5 mm (G) hook. I really like Cotton-Ease. It's 50% cotton/50% acrylic, but it feels like cotton. It washes beautifully and holds up well. I bought every bright color I could find locally and then ordered the other brights from Knitting Warehouse. I think I'm using about 14 colors in a random stripe.
I love the weight and hand of cotton blankets. To me, cotton almost feels cool to the touch. Perfect for spring!
