Friday, January 23, 2009

Have I mentioned ...

...that there is no heat in the Abbey Church of Maria Einsiedeln? I don't mean the heat isn't working ... I mean there IS NO HEAT in the church... EVER. One can literally see one's breath when singing or reciting. I saw a thermometer today that said 10 degrees celsius ... so that's what, somewhere in the low 40's? Given my high tolerance for cool and cold temperatures, I haven't found it too bad ... until today. By the end of Mass my feet were getting cold and my nose and ears were quite cold. It puts a new spin on "old world charm." But I'm still loving it.

I'm really enjoying the food here ...with traditional monastic style service at meals, there is a certain portion control in effect, but that's OK. I could get used to this style of meals, and would greatly benefit from the imposed portion control. I lament our loss of the family style meal in the Monastery at home ... with regular buffet service it's much too easy to eat too much, and I do.

The fare here is very simple and very flavorful. I have yet to salt my food ... and those who know me understand the significance of that.

I'm supposed to meet Brother Edward at the stables in a bit. Alas, this afternoon it is raining, but I hear more snow is coming. I hope, I hope, I hope ....

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