If you are going to do a D9P you need to make sure you put your favorite fabric in the corners because they will not be cut at all. I do love that pattern, makes something so simple look much more difficult. As far as your MIL, maybe an irish chain, not to hard either, I have one done in my donation quilts. For that one you don't need a lot of different coordinating fabrics either. Just listen to your heart, and you will pick exactly the right thing. Personally I would make them so that they can be used or hung year round.