Holding the fort

To Fortify

for·ti·fy   /ˈfɔrtəˌfaɪ/ Show Spelled [fawr-tuh-fahy] Show IPA verb, -fied, -fy·ing.
–verb (used with object)

1. to protect or strengthen against attack; surround or provide with defensive military works.
2. to furnish with a means of resisting force or standing strain or wear: to fortify cotton with nylon.
3. to make strong; impart strength or vigor to: to fortify oneself with a good breakfast.
4. to increase the effectiveness of, as by additional ingredients: to fortify a diet with vitamins; to fortify a lotion with lanolin.
5. to strengthen mentally or morally: to be fortified by religious faith.
6. to confirm or corroborate: to fortify an accusation with facts.
7. Nutrition . to add one or more ingredients to (a food) to increase its nutritional content.
8. to add alcohol to (wine or the like).

We are in need of fortification. Happily definition 1. is not the reason for our departure from these shores this time. Indeed neither is the latter part of 2. Some of the others might apply, but I suspect fortifying a lotion with lanolin will not be high on the list. I also suspect that the sun may not shine as brightly, or the sky be such a dazzling blue, but this beautiful castle will be our base for the next few weeks, and come rain or shine, we are looking forward to a change of pace and scenery.