the craft of simplicity

Earlier this week I posted photos and a mini tutorial for the crocheted garland I made for our Christmas tree. I easily made 20 yards of it. More than once my dad commented, "that's a lot of work." And it wasn't the only time he has said that about something I was making. His tone could imply that he wanted to follow that comment with "and you're crazy to be doing it." But he doesn't say that, and I don't think he's even thinking that.
The thing is, many of the things I do are a lot of work (and I may very well be crazy for doing them). What I've been thinking on, however, is that the art...the craft of simplicity in my work makes me sane.
A complicated project that goes on and on isn't the kind of work I'm talking about, nor is a fast and easy project the simplicity I'm talking about. No, I like something that could be described as monotonous at times. With just enough elements to break it up and keep it interesting. I've found that I need this!
Crocheting garland, piecing hexagons or other shapes, embroidering little designs, hand quilting or stitching a binding...these things all call for a lot of work. But they don't require extensive brain power. They give me the opportunity to chat, watch a movie, listen to music, think on plans, or often, to pray.
Simple hand crafts offer peaceful moments, and I could always use more of those. I know I'm not alone.
And so, in the midst of a swirl of December activity, I cut some pentagons to make a winter wreath mug rug for myself. With a few sequin stars with which I've fallen in love. I shall sew it completely by hand, and enjoy every moment of it. There's not really time for a labor-intensive anything, but that almost seems to be the point.
As I attempt to stitch some simplicity into my days, maybe you'd like to join me?