I have a suggestion for you )V(.

If you have a strength in either using polys, sub-d, or NURBS, I recommend that you use whatever your weakest method is.

It sounds like you want to try new things to help you learn the program.

So maybe using a method your not very comfortable with will help you get better.

Or maybe you could even try to include particle effects
- or use a lot of mel scripting
- or use a lot of paint effects
(Just pick something you don't know how to use and try to learn.)

Then you can see how you progress through the days.

Just a thought. Can't wait to see your progress.

Good Luck.