Major milestone!

I have started my first sweater!!  It is the simplest pattern I could find, but if I do it correctly, I think it could be a sweater that I really really love.  I am making it out of yarn I received for Christmas from my college roommate, and I am using a pattern I fell in love with on Ravelry; the Bella Tunic by Phoenix Bess.  SO far I have half of one sleeve cuff done...  I think it is going to take me quite a while to do it, seeing as I am having trouble staying focused on the cowl I have been working on since the beginning of the year, but I'm hoping that because it is my first attempt at a real article of clothing, I will persevere.  My goal is to have it done in time to wear for St. Patrick's day.  :)  Here is my gauge swatch that I did last night:  (trying to do it by the book!!)