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Hi! I'm Michelle.

Staying blonde through travel, food, and family fun.
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Springs resort poolCentral AmericaTravelTrendingCosta Rica Family Itinerary: 10 Days of Adventure, Wildlife & Beaches
February 4, 2026

Costa Rica Family Itinerary: 10 Days of Adventure, Wildlife & Beaches

Costa Rica seemed to be exactly what we were looking for.  Jungles, untamed beaches, volcanoes - what could be more adventurous than that?
Michelle Tucker 6
Love3
AsiaTravelTrendingThe Ultimate 11-Day Japan Itinerary for Families with Teens
July 27, 2025

The Ultimate 11-Day Japan Itinerary for Families with Teens

We spent 11 days exploring Tokyo and Kyoto with our two teens, soaking up neon lights, centuries-old temples, cuddly animals, and more bowls of ramen than I can count.
Michelle Tucker 6
Love6
Lemon Rice Soup from aboveSoupsEatsLifestyleTrendingGreek Lemon Rice Soup
February 7, 2021

Greek Lemon Rice Soup

Greek lemon rice soup, also known as Avgolemono, is one of those dishes that reminds me of home. It's perfect anytime of the year.
Michelle Tucker 30
Love5

Mom of two, seeking a little sanity in the everyday

Profile: Michelle in Orange

Staying Blonde is Michelle Tucker, mother of two fantastic kids. Staying Blonde is where I share my journey. Learn from my wins and fails — hopefully, you can take advantage of the lessons I’ve learned, things I’ve figured out, and the bits of life I’ve untangled. Life is best when we lift each other up.

Grab a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and dive right in. I’m sure you’ll find some goodness here!

Learn More

Featured Stories

The Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only) The Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)
The Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)

Packing light gives you the freedom to enjoy it all without being weighed down (literally and mentally).... read more

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt) Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)
Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)

Once you make this fresh, homemade tzatziki, you’ll understand. It’s lighter, brighter, and just tastes ... read more

How to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip) How to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)
How to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)

When the beaches in Riviera Maya are covered in sargassum, the easiest solution is heading over to Cozum... read more

The Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids The Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids
The Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids

The key to planning a family-friendly Road to Hana itinerary is choosing the right stops,

read more
Best Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems Best Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems
Best Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: The best food on Maui is always worth a little effort.

read more
The Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids The Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids
The Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids

When planning family travel, especially if your goal is to make everyone happy, it’s worth considering n... read more

Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

I can prepare it, pop it in the fridge, and know it will provide me with delicious meals for the next co... read more

11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Sri Lanka 11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Sri Lanka
11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka isn’t a place you visit, it’s a place you feel. It’s messy, beautiful, unpredictable, and full... read more

Japan Travel Mistakes: What We’d do Differently Next Time Japan Travel Mistakes: What We’d do Differently Next Time
Japan Travel Mistakes: What We'd do Differently Next Time

Traveling always comes with lessons learned, and I hope by sharing ours, it might help you plan a smooth... read more

The Very Best Travel Essentials and Gear The Very Best Travel Essentials and Gear
The Very Best Travel Essentials and Gear

“These are the items we always bring to keep things organized and ensure our trips run smoothly an... read more

Travel

“Travel is rich with learning opportunities, and the ultimate souvenir is a broader perspective.” ― Rick Steves
EuropeTravelFeaturedThe Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)
May 28, 2026

The Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)

Packing light gives you the freedom to enjoy it all without being weighed down (literally and mentally).
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
MexicoTravelFeaturedHow to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)
May 3, 2026

How to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)

When the beaches in Riviera Maya are covered in sargassum, the easiest solution is heading over to Cozumel.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
United StatesSouth PacificTravelFeaturedThe Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids
April 30, 2026

The Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids

The key to planning a family-friendly Road to Hana itinerary is choosing the right stops,
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
United StatesSouth PacificTravelFeaturedBest Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems
April 19, 2026

Best Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: The best food on Maui is always worth a little effort.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
FamilyTravelFeaturedThe Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids
February 6, 2026

The Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids

When planning family travel, especially if your goal is to make everyone happy, it’s worth considering not just where you go, but when you go.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love3
Springs resort poolCentral AmericaTravelTrendingCosta Rica Family Itinerary: 10 Days of Adventure, Wildlife & Beaches
February 4, 2026

Costa Rica Family Itinerary: 10 Days of Adventure, Wildlife & Beaches

Costa Rica seemed to be exactly what we were looking for.  Jungles, untamed beaches, volcanoes - what could be more adventurous than that?
Michelle Tucker 6
Love3

Eats

“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” — Julia Child
AppetizersEatsFeaturedAuthentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)
May 6, 2026

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)

Once you make this fresh, homemade tzatziki, you’ll understand. It’s lighter, brighter, and just tastes like summer in Greece.
Michelle Tucker 1
Love2
SweetsEatsPistachio Pudding Bars
March 20, 2026

Pistachio Pudding Bars

The bars have a soft, buttery crust, a creamy pistachio layer, and a light, fluffy topping that somehow makes the whole thing feel both rich and refreshing at the same…
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
Main CoursesEatsItalian Beef and Shells Casserole
January 23, 2026

Italian Beef and Shells Casserole

It’s hearty, comforting, and made with simple ingredients that come together into one cozy, satisfying dinner.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
Quinoa Spinach SaladSaladsEatsLifestyleFeaturedSpinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
January 13, 2026

Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

I can prepare it, pop it in the fridge, and know it will provide me with delicious meals for the next couple of days.
Michelle Tucker 6
Love2
DrinksEatsCranberry Pomegranate Spritz
December 6, 2025

Cranberry Pomegranate Spritz

This cocktail feels special without being complicated, which is my favorite combination.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
Pumpkin barsSweetsSeasonalEatsPumpkin Bars
November 15, 2025

Pumpkin Bars

Be warned, though, you can't eat just one.  Also, don't be surprised if you find yourself making them more than once this fall season.
Michelle Tucker 2
Love2

Lifestyle

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou
FamilyTravelFeaturedThe Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids
February 6, 2026

The Best Family Trips by Age: When and Where to Travel With Kids

When planning family travel, especially if your goal is to make everyone happy, it’s worth considering not just where you go, but when you go.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love3
Quinoa Spinach SaladSaladsEatsLifestyleFeaturedSpinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
January 13, 2026

Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

I can prepare it, pop it in the fridge, and know it will provide me with delicious meals for the next couple of days.
Michelle Tucker 6
Love2
Beauty and FashionHerbal Face Food Review
July 10, 2025

Herbal Face Food Review

The ingredients are so pure and concentrated that you actually feel a tingle when you apply it
Michelle Tucker 0
Love3
concrete PaintDIYLifestyleBudget-Friendly Concrete Makeover: Let’s Paint the Patio
June 27, 2025

Budget-Friendly Concrete Makeover: Let’s Paint the Patio

Painting concrete is an affordable and surprisingly transformative way to refresh outdoor spaces, such as patios, walkways, and side yards.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
FamilyDIYLifestyleFeaturedCreate Your Own Wisteria Wonderland
March 13, 2025

Create Your Own Wisteria Wonderland

My daughter loves her wisteria filled room, and I love that we created something beautiful together.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love4
Halloween tunnelHolidaysDIYLifestyleHow to Make a Haunted Halloween Tunnel
September 28, 2024

How to Make a Haunted Halloween Tunnel

A Haunted Halloween Tunnel is a fun and easy DIY project. Here is a full supply list and instructions so you can make your own.
Michelle Tucker 1
Love5

Recent Posts

"There's no present. There's only the immediate future and the recent past." ― George Carlin
EuropeTravelFeaturedThe Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)
May 28, 2026

The Ultimate Italy Summer Packing List (Carry-On Only)

Packing light gives you the freedom to enjoy it all without being weighed down (literally and mentally).
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
AppetizersEatsFeaturedAuthentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)
May 6, 2026

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe (Easy Homemade with Greek Yogurt)

Once you make this fresh, homemade tzatziki, you’ll understand. It’s lighter, brighter, and just tastes like summer in Greece.
Michelle Tucker 1
Love2
MexicoTravelFeaturedHow to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)
May 3, 2026

How to Avoid Sargassum in Riviera Maya (Easy Cozumel Day Trip)

When the beaches in Riviera Maya are covered in sargassum, the easiest solution is heading over to Cozumel.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
United StatesSouth PacificTravelFeaturedThe Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids
April 30, 2026

The Best Road to Hana Stops with Kids

The key to planning a family-friendly Road to Hana itinerary is choosing the right stops,
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
United StatesSouth PacificTravelFeaturedBest Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems
April 19, 2026

Best Food on Maui: Must-Try Restaurants, Food Trucks, and Hidden Gems

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: The best food on Maui is always worth a little effort.
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2
SweetsEatsPistachio Pudding Bars
March 20, 2026

Pistachio Pudding Bars

The bars have a soft, buttery crust, a creamy pistachio layer, and a light, fluffy topping that somehow makes the whole thing feel both rich and refreshing at the same…
Michelle Tucker 0
Love2

Shop the Feed

“Shopping is my cardio.” — Carrie Bradshaw

Latest on Social

“Humor is a social lubricant that helps us get over some of the bad spots.” — Steve Allen

June is one of the very best months to visit Cusco, and honestly, all of Peru.

The weeks leading up to Inti Raymi, the ancient Inca Festival of the Sun, are filled with parades, performances, and celebrations throughout the city.

This footage was taken on June 15th, and as you can see, the festivities were already in full swing. We had no idea when we booked this trip that we’d be visiting during such an exciting time.
Talk about perfect timing! Happy Inti Raymi!
#cuscoperu #intiraymi #perutravel #traveltips #familytravel

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 18115369411848822
June is one of the very best months to visit Cusco, and honestly, all of Peru. The weeks leading up to Inti Raymi, the ancient Inca Festival of the Sun, are filled with parades, performances, and celebrations throughout the city. This footage was taken on June 15th, and as you can see, the festivities were already in full swing. We had no idea when we booked this trip that we’d be visiting during such an exciting time. Talk about perfect timing! Happy Inti Raymi! #cuscoperu #intiraymi #perutravel #traveltips #familytravel

We’ve been kind of busy in Peru. 🇵🇪

I usually try to post little updates while we travel, but Peru has had us going from morning until night. There’s just so much to see, do, and experience.

This country is absolutely incredible and so geographically diverse. It’s home to a coastal desert, breathtaking mountains, and the Amazon rainforest. And somehow, we’ve been lucky enough to experience all three.

I have so much to share from this trip, but for now, I’m still trying to soak it all in. #peru #travelperu #familytravel #machupicchu #amazonrainforest

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 18113348162478949
We’ve been kind of busy in Peru. 🇵🇪 I usually try to post little updates while we travel, but Peru has had us going from morning until night. There’s just so much to see, do, and experience. This country is absolutely incredible and so geographically diverse. It’s home to a coastal desert, breathtaking mountains, and the Amazon rainforest. And somehow, we’ve been lucky enough to experience all three. I have so much to share from this trip, but for now, I’m still trying to soak it all in. #peru #travelperu #familytravel #machupicchu #amazonrainforest

No regrets! 🌿🐒

We’re spending three nights in the Peruvian Amazon at Posada Amazonas with @rainforestexpeditions, and it has been one of the coolest experiences our family has ever had.

Believe it or not, the Amazon has actually been the easiest part of our Peru trip! From the planning to the experience itself, it’s been incredibly family-friendly and far less intimidating than we expected.

I have a blog post and videos coming soon with all the details, tips, and what it’s really like staying in the Amazon with kids. Stay tuned! #posadaamazonas #amazonrainforest #perutravel #familytravel #travelwithkids

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 18359463268240627
No regrets! 🌿🐒 We’re spending three nights in the Peruvian Amazon at Posada Amazonas with @rainforestexpeditions, and it has been one of the coolest experiences our family has ever had. Believe it or not, the Amazon has actually been the easiest part of our Peru trip! From the planning to the experience itself, it’s been incredibly family-friendly and far less intimidating than we expected. I have a blog post and videos coming soon with all the details, tips, and what it’s really like staying in the Amazon with kids. Stay tuned! #posadaamazonas #amazonrainforest #perutravel #familytravel #travelwithkids

I think I might officially be in my Indiana Jones era.

At 51, all I want to do is travel, chase adventures, and see and experience everything. When I was a kid, I remember watching Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and thinking, OMG, I want to be an archaeologist. My friend and I were convinced we’d be the ones to find the Holy Grail someday… and then I grew up and realized archaeology might not be as exciting as an Indiana Jones movie. 😂

Now, standing among ancient ruins in Peru, I feel that same sense of wonder all over again.

Last year, I drove a tuk-tuk across Sri Lanka. This year, I’m exploring Peru and heading into the Amazon with my family. The adventures keep getting bigger, and I’m incredibly grateful for every opportunity i’ve been given to experience them.

So… is 51 too old to reignite an old passion? I don’t think so. If anything, I think the adventure is just beginning. #lifeisanadventure #perutravel #ollantaytambo #familytravel #wanderlust

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 17944728084228442
I think I might officially be in my Indiana Jones era. At 51, all I want to do is travel, chase adventures, and see and experience everything. When I was a kid, I remember watching Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and thinking, OMG, I want to be an archaeologist. My friend and I were convinced we’d be the ones to find the Holy Grail someday… and then I grew up and realized archaeology might not be as exciting as an Indiana Jones movie. 😂 Now, standing among ancient ruins in Peru, I feel that same sense of wonder all over again. Last year, I drove a tuk-tuk across Sri Lanka. This year, I’m exploring Peru and heading into the Amazon with my family. The adventures keep getting bigger, and I’m incredibly grateful for every opportunity i’ve been given to experience them. So… is 51 too old to reignite an old passion? I don’t think so. If anything, I think the adventure is just beginning. #lifeisanadventure #perutravel #ollantaytambo #familytravel #wanderlust

Hello Peru! 🇵🇪
This was seriously the first thing we saw stepping out of our hotel in Ollantaytambo. It was the best way to start our visit to the Sacred Valley. #alpacas #perutravel #ollantaytambo #sacredvalley #familytravel

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 18137091874490059
Hello Peru! 🇵🇪 This was seriously the first thing we saw stepping out of our hotel in Ollantaytambo. It was the best way to start our visit to the Sacred Valley. #alpacas #perutravel #ollantaytambo #sacredvalley #familytravel

Just a dog and a butterfly 🦋 🐶

I’ve been so busy these past couple weeks that I’ve had no time to post. So please enjoy Spud and the butterfly. He has an obsession with butterflies and it cracks me up. I can watch him chase them for hours.
Oh, and please ignore the spots in my yard, I’m reseeding. 😩 #englishbulldogpuppy #wholesome #englishbulldog #cute #butterfly

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Open post by stayingblonde with ID 17908384809244782
Just a dog and a butterfly 🦋 🐶 I’ve been so busy these past couple weeks that I’ve had no time to post. So please enjoy Spud and the butterfly. He has an obsession with butterflies and it cracks me up. I can watch him chase them for hours. Oh, and please ignore the spots in my yard, I’m reseeding. 😩 #englishbulldogpuppy #wholesome #englishbulldog #cute #butterfly
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