It only took me a week! I started last Friday evening, and I finished this Friday afternoon!
The unblocked measurements are supposed to be 56x24. Mine is 44x23. So my gauge was apparently partially correct. I’m not sure why it isn’t right along the top (sides while you’re knitting). I don’t really care, though. It won’t be the measurement it’s supposed to be, but when I block it I think it will be all right.
I haven’t decided whether or not to do fringe. I have enough yarn; that was the benefit of having my gauge too tight, I suppose.

This pattern was quite easy. I expected it to be more difficult, reading others’ blogs, but I quickly memorized the pattern and I don’t think I made a single mistake. (besides, of course, not checking gauge) I didn’t count my stitches, I didn’t use stitch markers; I was able to check everything as I did the purl row after each pattern row. I’m beginning to think that everything is easier than I’d expect….