My solution: I went to the store and thumbed thru a couple sewing pattern catalogues in search for a jacket pattern. I wanted something unique, and maybe something I change up or add to later. I found McCalls DIY Style pattern #M5714, purchased some fleece and with excitement headed home. All in all it took me 3 nights (an hour or 2 each night), deciding how I wanted my jacket to look like, cutting out the pattern, laying out the pieces, figuring out the directions and finally having a finished project that I am proud of.....
Still needs a few extra decorative touches, but for now DONE!! (and the total spent, $30 including the pattern.)