Granny Stripe Start

I've taken the leap.
I've started crocheting on the Granny Stripe Blanket by Lucy of Attic 24.
I'm having fun! (and oh, this could be SO addicting)
As a very new crocheter, and quite a novice in field of all things yarn, I want to share with you some of the things I have learned in the last few days.

I went into our local yarn shop here in town, and asked a few questions.
Lucy used a "dk" weight yarn, so that is what I purchased also.
The pattern calls for 17 colors, but I am starting with 11 bright shades.
Don't they just look happy sitting next to each other?

So far so good!
If I can do this, anyone can.
Lucy's pattern is a double-bed width, where she starts with 240 chains.
Because I am so new at this, I wanted my first attempt to be a little smaller. I am going with more of a baby size, and chained 150. She said the foundation chain needed to stay within multiples of 3.

Because "dk" is a lighter weight yarn, I am also following Lucy's use of a "G" sized crochet hook.

In the instructions, Lucy suggested doing a practice strip first. I used my worsted weight with an "I" (5.50) size hook, and got the technique down.

Yes! I can do this!

But, I didn't like the chunkiness in size, which helped me realize I wanted to purchase the smaller dk weight and use a smaller crochet hook.

Another challenge I had was learning how to add in a new yarn color. Lucy gives good instructions, but I am such a visual learner.

I found a great free video tutorial that really helped me "see" the technique.
http://www.nexstitch.com/v_changing_yarn.html

I've appreciated all of your comments, suggestions and encouragement.

Mary reminded me that this could be addictive, and to look out for carpel tunnel.
Sequanna (Annie) informed me that Amy Butler has a new line of yarns out, and provided a link:

http://www.fabric.com/SearchResults2.aspx?Source=Header&SearchText=amy+butler+yarns&CategoryID=1d5f47dc-9991-4088-93f3-26a376046a5e
OK. Now I am really in trouble.