Lent starts today. Me, I've observed a strict Lenten fast for the last 13 years. I can't tell you with any great precision what my religion is, has been or will be, but I can say this for sure - next year will also find me gearing up in the late winter for seven weeks of veganism, moderation and reflection.

It just makes sense to me. Periods of fasting in the early spring have been a part of so many traditions, and I can't deny that, whatever you believe in the seasons of your life, the simple act of saying "no" to yourself, once in a while, does wonders for your body and soul.

One of the time-honored ways that we do this, of course, is through diet. And if there's one thing to look forward to in this season of fasting and repentance - it's the Fillet-O-Fish. Yup, this delicious Tartar-smeared McDonald's favorite was invented for Lent.

And, not to be outdone, this year KFC is petitioning the Vatican for approval on it's delicious new fish sandwich. According to an AP report,

For years, anything produced by KFC had to meet the standards of Colonel Harlan Sanders.

For its new product, the fried chicken chain is seeking a higher endorsement. KFC has asked Pope Benedict XVI to bless the Fish Snacker Sandwich, a Lenten addition to the chain's Snacker sandwich line.

KFC sent the Pope a letter earlier this month, asking him to bestow a blessing on the sandwich. While the sandwich is being marketed generally, John O'Reilly, chief marketing officer for KFC, said the sandwich should prove especially popular on Friday's, when Catholics traditionally don't eat meat in the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday.

Prayer, solitude aqnd a fishwich. I'm starting my own monastic order.