Pretty Yarn Plus Too Many Choices (Adriana)

Last month I was Bertha's 1000th commenter and to my delight she sent me this:

Cherry Tree Hill Supersock Solid in Amethyst (actually a richer purple)
The yarn is posed with my anniversary roses

Thanks so much, Bertha! The yarn is beautiful. I’ve never played with solid sock yarn before; there are so many pattern possibilities! (The yarn also came with chocolate but it was devoured prior to picture taking)

Every November I give my mom a detailed wish list for Christmas. This is a list of all sorts of things (mostly knitting related) that I would like so she can pick and choose. This way I get things I want but there is still some element of surprise. This year I’m having trouble deciding what yarn to request. I like it to be for a project I can cast on Christmas Day (though that might not be possible this year since the usual plans have been rearranged). I’m trying to update my wardrobe to be more business casual in anticipation of the fabulous job my new program is going to land me. To that end I’ve been considering the following three projects: Deep V Argyle Vest, Ms. Marigold and Tangled Yoke Cardigan. I have concerns about all of them. The Argyle Vest: I’ve only done a couple of Fake Isle Hats in the past so my fair isle skills still need some work. I also don’t know how much fun this project would be what with steeking and all. Ms. Marigold: the jury is still out on if vests will look good on me. Tangled Yoke: this is such a beautiful sweater but I’m allergic to alpaca so the recommended yarn is out and my sub of choice, Silky Wool, I hear doesn’t wear well. Also, requiring 2mm needles scares me.
Clearly I am overthinking this stuff rather than study for my midterm tomorrow. How about you guys do the thinking and get back to me on what I should do :)