“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
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
Jun 24
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
Jun 23
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
Jun 22
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
Jun 16
We made it to Machu Picchu! And yes… it’s every bit as bucket-list worthy as you imagine.
Honestly, it’s one of those pinch-me moments that almost doesn’t feel real. Photos simply can’t capture the beauty, history, and sheer awe of this place.
We’re spending 14 days exploring Peru with the kids, and I’m gathering as many tips, tricks, and itinerary ideas as I can to share with you soon.
For now, I’m putting my phone down when I can, taking it all in, and feeling incredibly grateful to be here. Follow along in my stories as our Peru adventure continues. 🇵🇪 #machupicchu #bucketlistplaces #travelperu #familytravel #travelwithkids
Jun 14
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
Jun 11
Italy Packing Checklist (Carry-On Only!) 🇮🇹✈️
One of the questions I get asked a lot is how I fit everything into just a carry-on. After several family trips to Europe and beyond (and plenty of trial and error), I’ve learned that packing light is the only way to travel.
For every trip, I put together a packing list for myself and my kids, so I figured I’d start sharing these lists with you, too.
This first packing list includes everything I packed in my carry-on for two weeks in Italy. 🇮🇹 The best part? There was still plenty of room left for shopping! 🛍️
If you’d like the complete list, including my FREE printable packing checklist, you’ll find it over on the blog. Link in my bio.
And yes... as I get ready for Peru, I’m once again trying to fit everything into just a carry-on and backpack. 😅 I’ll be sharing that packing list soon, too!
#italypackinglist #packingforvacation #packinglist #italytravel #traveltipsandtric
Jun 8
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
Jun 7
Congratulations to my “not-so-little” baby boy. 🎓❤️
I honestly don’t know how to put into words everything I’m feeling right now. Proud. Emotional. Nostalgic. Excited. A little overwhelmed. Somehow all of it at once.
It’s been a busy, yet wonderful couple of weeks. And the crazy thing is, we’re not even done yet. Now, it’s time to celebrate! 🎉
So proud of you, kiddo! ❤️ 👨🎓 And yes, it was his request for In-N-Out for his celebratory dinner! #classof2026🎓 #proudmama
Jun 5
Great Scott, this show is heavy... in the best way possible!
We attended opening night of Back to the Future: The Musical at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, and it was absolutely fantastic. From the incredible performances to the jaw-dropping special effects, we loved every minute of it!
If you’re a fan of the movie, you’re going to have so much fun reliving the story on stage. It’s a high-energy show the whole family can enjoy.
The show is in San Jose June 2–7, and there are still seats available! I have a link in my bio where you can grab your tickets today. #backtothefuturethemusical #bttf #sanjosefun #broadwaysanjose @bttfbway
Jun 3
Did you know that stroke and heart disease are among the leading causes of death? And even when they aren’t fatal, they can be physically debilitating and financially devastating.
Many people who experience a stroke have no warning signs beforehand, which is why preventive screenings can be so important. Life Line Screening is an independent company that offers screenings for people without symptoms, so you don’t need insurance, and the process is incredibly easy.
For me, it’s all about peace of mind. How about you?
For $15 off your screening package, use code Blonde15 during checkout at LifeLineScreening.com. I also have the link in my bio.
#lifelinescreening
Jun 2
We’ve been so busy around here that I forgot to do a puppy update!
Spud is doing so much better and his puppy energy has returned. We are very excited to get his stitches out and his cone off on Wednesday, so he can finally play with the other dogs again.
Again, thank you to everyone who’s reached out to ask about or help out Spud. We appreciate you all. ❤️ #puppyupdate #englishbulldogpuppy #healingjourney #puppy #englishbulldog
May 31
Would you stick your IPhone in the ocean?
I learned that my iPhone 14 is supposed to be water resistant. I recently lost it for about 15 minutes in the ocean in Maui and, believe it or not, it still worked fine. I figured that it should be fine capturing some fish for about 15 seconds in Cozumel . 🐠 #iphone14promax #coolfacts #wouldyoudoit #clearwater #cozumel
May 30
