but I tried to keep it "simple".
That's pretty much my motto for life in general. Too many people make things so complicated when there is normally a simple solution. There is no point in getting too stressed or worried over a problem instead just find the starting point and where you want to finish and see what needs to happen to get there. A lot like any piece of art too really. What are starting from, what are you trying to paint and then all the steps in between. Simple.
Yes this is true! I think that those 'steps in between' just happen somehow when you trust in your skills and when you are inspired enough. There's no need to worry about all that.
No, for the most part they kind of fall into place once you have started and know where you are trying to get to. That's why people are always on about practice. Keep doing it until it becomes second nature.