Ember Saturday in September

Almighty and everlasting God, Who by means of healthful abstinence dost heal both minds and bodies, very humbly we entreat Thy majesty: be appeased by the devout prayer of those who fast, and give us help both now and for time to come. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen.

Check out the Catholic Encyclopedia for more on the Ember Days (the winter Ember Days occur after the 3rd Sunday of Advent, this year December 19, 21, 22).

This afternoon we discovered a delightful Austrian beverage: Gurktaler Alpenkräuter. It's made out of 59 different types of herbs, roots, seeds, and fruits. And it's excellent with tonic water and a slice of lemon. Sort of like a gin and tonic with the flavor taken up quite a few notches. Becherovka has a rival claimant to the title of "favorite drink" around here. And this stuff has the advantage of being readily available in the Spar right beneath our flat.

And last but not least, Maria decided to have some fun today with her daddy's shoes. Hmmm...