This is an anime that rewards patience and a calm mind. This is not an action show; the plot is minimal. That is the case with the Monogatari franchise as well: a series in which story matters far less than presentation. The artwork is gorgeous. The cute girls are very cute, and it matters little that what they do most is sit around, have tea and baked goods, and chat. There is just something about how it's done that makes this series work. The impending doom of the evil, murderous men that pop up now and then adds an edge to the show that cuts through anypossible treacley-ness. Week by week, we wait for something horrific to befall the girls.

In the end, we really do not know who or what the girls are or their purpose. Maybe there'll be a season two that explains things, but that would be boring. This is a show like Hidamari Sketch: I'll rewatch to simply enjoy a respite from the noise & clutter of daily life. It's lovely to look at, and every episode left me refreshed. Even the final one.