This is strong and em.

So is this word.

This is strong and em.

So is this word.

(Remember that * and _ do not work in the middle of words in MultiMarkdown - too much accidental stuff with URL's)

*This is em with surrounding asterisks.*

Rigorous test of combined strong and em:

The sun is yellow and bright.

The sky is blue and clear.

The moon is full and gray.

The stars are Bright and sparkly.