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Family Lifestyle

October 10, 2023

Unlocking the Secret of Tarantula Sightings: Tips for a Successful Encounter in California’s Scenic Parks

We recently embarked on a unique family adventure, taking the kids up to Henry Coe State Park to witness a fascinating natural phenomenon—tarantula mating season. Yes, tarantulas—the big, hairy spiders…

Michelle Tucker 0

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stayingblonde

That looked way cooler in my head. 😂

Here’s the thing… you’ll never know if one of those “cool shots” is going to work unless you actually try.

So here’s your little reminder to get out there, dream big, try new things, and don’t be afraid to look a little cringy along the way. Some of the best adventures start with taking a chance… even if the footage doesn’t quite go as planned. 😂

At this point, I think I could make an entire series out of my failed attempts.
#fail #behindthescenes #machupicchu #machupicchupueblo #contentcreater

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Jun 29

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That looked way cooler in my head. 😂

Here’s the thing… you’ll never know if one of those “cool shots” is going to work unless you actually try.

So here’s your little reminder to get out there, dream big, try new things, and don’t be afraid to look a little cringy along the way. Some of the best adventures start with taking a chance… even if the footage doesn’t quite go as planned. 😂

At this point, I think I could make an entire series out of my failed attempts.
#fail #behindthescenes #machupicchu #machupicchupueblo #contentcreater

stayingblonde

Peru is a vibe. 🇵🇪

After 14 days exploring Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon, one thing became crystal clear… Peru has a way of making you slow down, unplug, and soak it all in.
Every region felt like a completely different world, which made this one of our favorite family adventures yet.

If Peru is on your bucket list, our full 14-day itinerary is now live on the blog. I packed it with everything we learned along the way. #peru #perutravel #machupicchu #amazonrainforest #travelinspo

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Jun 27

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Peru is a vibe. 🇵🇪

After 14 days exploring Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon, one thing became crystal clear… Peru has a way of making you slow down, unplug, and soak it all in.
Every region felt like a completely different world, which made this one of our favorite family adventures yet.

If Peru is on your bucket list, our full 14-day itinerary is now live on the blog. I packed it with everything we learned along the way. #peru #perutravel #machupicchu #amazonrainforest #travelinspo

stayingblonde

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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Jun 24

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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

stayingblonde

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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Jun 23

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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

stayingblonde

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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Jun 22

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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

stayingblonde

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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Jun 16

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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

stayingblonde

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

View Instagram post by stayingblonde

Jun 14

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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

stayingblonde

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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Jun 11

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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

stayingblonde

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

View Instagram post by stayingblonde

Jun 8

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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

stayingblonde

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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Jun 7

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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

stayingblonde

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

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Jun 5

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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

stayingblonde

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

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Jun 3

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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

stayingblonde

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

View Instagram post by stayingblonde

Jun 2

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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

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