For a simple Arduino project for a beginner, and a great way to cause trouble with the other-half, consider making this Arduino-powered baby name selection device. By using a tilt sensor the circuit can be triggered to randomly select one name from a list previously entered in the sketch. Putting the function to one side, it's a neat tutorial that explains LCD control, random numbers and various sketch functions. The device is demonstrated in the following video:
No matter your use it's a fun idea - so visit the project page for a complete explanation. And for more, we're on twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.
Instead of building your own LCD module onto a breadboard, save time and move forward with the Freetronics LCD & Keypad shield which contains a bright 16x2 character LCD and five buttons that can be read from only one analog input pin:
