I don’t like to overly romanticize the beauty and simplicity to be found in Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown – I know that the if I lived during the time these spaces interpret it would be crowded and smelly and cold and often uncomfortable. But when I’m there, I can’t deny the beauty of objects and light and the urge to take numerous photos is impossible to resist. So today I share a few from our most recent trip.

I had intended to write more this week about our visit, including a detailed account of going to Jamestown, but we’ve been battling a stomach bug since last Saturday and so my output has been somewhat limited. For now, you’ll just have to enjoy these pictures with hopes that there will be time to share stories next week. But I do have a Friday round up of some travel items to get you ready for your weekend:

Do you have spring break plans yet? If not, you might want to check out this article I wrote about off-the-beaten path destinations or this list of fantastic suggestions from family travel bloggers.

After the death of a female tourist in Turkey, there’s been much discussion about the safety of women traveling solo. I found this thoughtful article from Christine of Almost Fearless to be right on the money.

Have you seen the National Geographic Travelers of the Year? A group of them gathered at the headquarters in Washington, DC this week including my friend and personal hero Heather of Globetrotting Mama. I enjoyed her take on the evening’s festivities.

Here’s a baby elephant being cute from one of my favorite travel photographers – just for fun.

We’re very excited that Vermont is going to get some snow this weekend, since we’re planning a family ski trip there next week. If you’ve got ski plans for upcoming winter holidays, you might want to check out my post about skiing with kids on busy holiday weekends.

And last but not least: You have until 5 p.m. EST today (Friday, February 8) to enter to win a $250 Residence Inn gift card that would be perfect for spring break travel.

Have a great weekend!