Simple and Square

Even though I compiled my 2009 projects last night and was pleased to see that I've managed four decently sized knitting projects (counting the one I'm working on now) and one itty-bitty knitting projects, I also noticed a trend in what I've made this year--simple and square.  Sure I learned a few things like how to do a ruffle and knit front to back.   And I'd never made booties (though these were not knitted in the round, which feels a bit like cheating).  But apparently I need to step it up, go for something not square or at least different.  This is a bit discouraging because I've already been thinking about my busy season project.  I'm a CPA (certified public accountant) and my crazy time at work is from February to April, during which nothing hard or complex gets done at home.  I just don't have the brain cells to devote to it after working 60+ hour weeks.  What's discouraging is that I was contemplating one of two throws--one is a series of squares (all the same-a cabled pattern) and the other a series of rectangles (all knit--it's the log cabin throw from Mason Dixon knitting).   Um, so they are simple and square.   So I have to pick out a project now that I will work on after the simple, square projects just to make sure I plan on breaking out of my rut and doing something different.  Suggestions?  Keep in mind that 1)I'm still relatively new to this so fair isle socks with a twisted cable will defeat me in a heartbeat, and 2)I'm slower than molasses in January so the harder it is, the smaller it needs to be or see comment 1 about defeat.