“Bless this house, oh Lord we pray
Keep it safe by night and day.
Bless the roof and chimney tall,
Let Thy peace lie over all.
Bless this house that it may prove
Ever open to joy and love.”

I didn’t have a house or a chimney growing up, but it didn’t matter: I always loved this song when we sang it at elementary school assemblies. Somehow, it always seemed to me to be about Thanksgiving. As I count my blessings this year, I am so grateful for:

My wonderful family and all the love and encouragement showered upon me.
My friends, who nurture, inspire, guide, and entertain me endlessly.
My loving spirits, who surround and protect me — and fill me with ideas.
My writing group, which has been such a delight and offered so much advice.
My swashbuckling little knight, Britomar, whose story I am honored to tell.
My mentors, Rob Gilbert and Coach Mike Tully, who guide and inspire me.
My spirit dog Watson and my boy Ryder who take me on endless adventures.
My dog-walking buddies, who brighten my mornings with smiles and stories.
My wonderful dharma teacher, Eileen, and my lovely meditation group.
My blog, karinwritesdangerously, which has been so much fun to write.
My blog readers who have shared their ideas and encouraged me to share mine.

May all of you who read this be blessed abundantly. May you be safe and protected. May you be strong and healthy. May you be happy and peaceful. May you have ease of being in the world. Happy Thanksgiving!