This pattern came to mind a good two years ago. I knit the sample, created the charts, and started working on the written directions. Then, the Memorial Day before last, our house burned. The boys were out with me, Hubby was in the pool, and the dog came when called. We were all fine.

However, we lost almost everything. What did not burn, was deemed “toxic waste” by the fire marshall. Up in smoke (literally & figuratively) went my computer (No, I did not back up regularly. Yes, I do now.), and, I thought the first sample.

My notes and the printed charts survived. So being a good little soldier, I used those to start over. Eventually, I even found the sample (in a grocery bag in my trunk. Don’t ask. I just don’t know.).

So here we are, almost a year after the restart, and it is finally done. The Phoenix Shawl. A pattern that rose out of the ashes.