Hi friends,
This goes without saying - Summer is absolutely flying by.  As fun as fall fashion and activities are, I always feel a little bit of seasonal depression when I realize how summer is fleeting. Am I the only one?
July was filled with pool days and finding kid activities indoors. We started off the month with a trip to Jacksonville, FL for 4th of July weekend which was wonderful .Did a solo parent day at the Please Touch museum in Philly and the kids absolutely loved it and already asking to go back. We also did a weekend trip to New York and although there was a heat warning, we made the best of it. I've received questions before about kid activities in NYC and I have a highlight saved here from last and this summer.
Here are a few of my favorite TV/Podcast/Books for this month. 
TV
Trying - Comedy/Drama Available on apple tv about a couple in London trying to go through the  trials and tribulations of adoption process 
MOVIE
Not Ok -Available on Hulu about how sometimes social media is so far off from reality and sometimes the consequences are irreversible
ted lasso on apple tv
PODCAST
Broad ideas - A celebrity podcast series with rachel bilson discussing current affairs and female relationships/challenges 
We can do hard things - Another star studded guest line up on this Glennon Doyle podcast
READING
One true loves - Book by Taylor Jenkin Reid, a novel about how sometimes some choices arent as simple. It's being adapted into a movie and has the true Notebook romance kind of feel.

Hi friends,
Hope your summer is off to a great start! I know summer technically doesn't start until June 21st but I always start off my favorite season after memorial day weekend- trying to stretch out summer for as long as possible! Started the month off with my birthday and it was a good one. Got to celebrate with my girlfriends doing what I absolutely love - working out, brunch and dancing the night away. Played hookie ( half day) from work with my husband and went on to celebrate with the family in the evening. Here is a quick snippet. I love celebrating birthdays! Of my loved ones and my own. Life is too short not to. Also got to do a cooking class datenight mid month as a continued celebration with my husband which was so much fun! Highly recommend checking out cooking classes at Sur La Table for any special occasions- I've been for a friend's birthday celebration and for date night, and both times its such a fun experience. Speaking  of celebrations, if you are local and looking to setup/plan something, l shared details here on female owned vendors that came together to setup a picnic bloggers' event featuring so many great resources from alcohol free spirits to charcuterie boards and balloon setups- they have it all covered. 
Moving on to favorites of the month -
I had a personal goal for the month of June to hit my steps of 4.5m a day and GrowwithJo channel on youtube was the best to stay motivated & achieve the goal.
Speaking of goals, I also have been trying to read/listen to more audiobooks. I finished a Reese's book club recommendation- Counterfeit ( plot had potential but the writing didn't quite meet my expectations) & Find your unicorn space ( A self help book on making sure to carve out time for ourselves as women. Again I thought the book had more potential but the writing was too scattered)
as promised easy trader joes recipes on tiktok (noodles & fig toast)
I recently started Loot on Apple TV with Maya Rudolph and other big name in the comedy world & would highly recommend if you're looking for an easy laugh.
Last month I asked if there were any specific topics I could share in these monthly favorite blogposts and I got a couple of requests to share easy Trader Joes recipes/items; so here is an easy shrimp noodle recipe & fig ricotta toast that I shared over on tiktok. I'll be sharing more as I go but you can always find my TJ favorites under my highlights over on Instagram ​
Moving on to other favorites of the month- 
This red dress from Nordstrom was a top seller for $22 and this linen vest & pant set from Banana Republic factory that has petite sizing as well. You can find more over on my LTK page & Instagram .
June's favorite 5 items were easy pieces that I plan on wearing all summer long and are staples for scorching hot months to come. 

Hi friends!
Hope you've had a fantastic May and summer is finally here! I don't know about you but I'm looking forward to long days, backyard nights under the stars, endless watermelon, beach trips and icecream. May has been a busy month with the daily grind of course but also many celebrations. 
I also managed to catch up on some TV shows and podcasts/books besides my regular favorites
Handmaids season 4 ( finally) (TV series)
Working moms season 6 (TV series)
The girl from Plainville (TV series)
Grace and Frankie (TV series)
The staircase 2022 on HBO (TV series)
The Paris Apartment (book)
How to become happier (podcast)
Are there any books/tv shows/podcasts you've enjoyed lately?
​
June happens to be one of my favorite months and in anticipation of many reasons to dress up, I did a dress try on a few weeks ago here linked below. I've also shared 3 linen outfit ideas for anyone looking to find modest wear this summer here

Here are a few of my May favorites I've picked up and will hopefully be using in the coming months.
​This cute shoulder tie top
These sandals that keep selling out, for very good reason
These highwaisted dad jeans
This coil basket that is currently half off
These peach colored pants that are so flattering 
This BEBE slip dress available on Amazon and fits like a glove
These ice trays ( I tried adding blueberries and raspberries and they add a nice touch to lemonades or even water)
These claw clips have been my go to the last few weeks and will be on heavy rotation in these coming months
This $20 backpack I picked up from Target for a day at the DC zoo with the kiddos and is multifunctional with tons of pockets and comes in several colors
​This Supergoop suncreen I love 

 IWhile summer days are hot and humid, the nights can get cooler and a light denim jacket is always something I keep within reach. Linking a few of my picks here. I do have the oversized Target one, the white denim and the lightwash denim as well.  I have also been loving wearing an oversized lightweight button down over my workout clothes or fitted dresses like this one. 

Lastly, with Father's Day fast approaching, here are a few gift ideas you can browse if you are still brainstorming. 
This under $50 portable grill for the dad who loves the outdoors
This personalized apron for the dad who loves to grill
This under $33 golf polo for the tee-riffic dad 
A local mini golf experience to spend time together
Massage roller for the dad who works too hard
A thermoflask for the dad on the go
Personalized fathers day books on Hooray Heroes
Under $90 Monogrammed wallet for the dad who is forgetful 

Hope these were useful! Next month I plan on sharing some easy meal ideas, Trader Joe's finds, maxi dresses for shorter frames besides my monthly favorites. Let me know what else I can share!

Thank you for reading. Always appreciate you taking out the time.
​Sophia

And somehow its May already! I mean I know we feel this way every month but seriously. 
April was a month of patience with it being the month of Ramadan for muslims observing around the world. My cousin got married in a small intimate ceremony and we got a chance to get dolled up in our fanciest Indian outfits. We cooked a lot of meals at home and spent time outdoors as much as possible with the kids. And while it was a fairly lowkey month in terms of purchasing new items, I did find joy in reaching for some favorites like these clear coffee mugs ( I made green tea in them after iftar dinners every evening). I also spent quite some time watching TV shows and listening to podcasts. 
Here's what I've been watching/listening to
 Love Me (Australian Series- a romantic comedy series)
Julia - Series on HBO. Based on the television chef Julia Child
Selling Sunset season 5 - My guilty pleasure but it's impossible not to watch with the over the top outfits and the drama
Podcast - Hidden Brain episode called Healing your heart. Focuses on grieving and moving forward after tragedies. 
Podcast - TED Radio Hour episode titled Work, Play, Rest about the work burnout and the great resignation after the last few years of working remotely, the job market & how productivity is not tied to in person work requirements. 
I feel like I'll keep this blogpost short and sweet and maybe leave the rambling for May because it's already felt like a long month.
Here are my April favorites. Thanks as always for trusting my recommendations and having faith in what I share. I really appreciate you using my links to purchase products I've tried and shared.
Wishing you a great week!
Sophia

Outfit details - You can shop my full outfit on my Instagram here

Baseball caps for toddlers here
This wide brim fedora hat  here
High waisted chinos ( available in petite) here
Long sleeved cropped utility jumpsuit here
Large scented candle Velvet rose & oud here 
Ribbed midi skirt here
Matcha whisk set here
Clear insulated mugs here 




​

March was a busy month with traveling to Puerto Rico ( travel guide linked here) and the kids starting a new K prep and attending for half days only. While I've been trying to juggle work and entertaining the kids in the afternoons (thanks for all the kids activity suggestions), I have found a growing interest in coming up with snack ideas (shared a few in my highlights here) and found these fruit cutters on Amazon that so many of you loved. Pinterest has been a major source of inspiration lately in terms of snack ideas but also for recreating outfits with staples in my closet. Some of these staples I have linked in March's favorite finds. Aside from staples in my closet this month, I have kept up with reading and listening to favorite podcasts.
This month I finished reading The Invisible Husband of Frick Island ( a light and easy read) and caught up (more like binged) on Smartless after a few weeks. Are there any new favorite podcasts you've been listening to lately?
In terms of workouts, I am at the tail end of the Heather Robertson's 12 week 2.0 Free YouTube program (have 1 week to go!) and have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of pushing my endurance and feeling more toned. Do you have any workout programs you've tried and really noticed changes with?
Here are a few of my favorite purchases/staples I've enjoyed in March and hope you may find of use this spring. Do let me know what you think.  
1.Platform converses
​2. Marc Jacobs Tote bag ( great for traveling, everyday use for work or even as a tote turned diaper bag for all moms who are in betweeners)
3. White loafers
4. Kid's fruit cutters 
5. High rise 90s jeans 
6. This lip balm
7. Classic trench coat

And that's all for March favorites. Hope you enjoyed these finds and hope to bring you more this summer/spring. 
Thanks for being here!
​Sophia

Hi friends! 
We recently traveled to  Puerto Rico and had the best time exploring the charming and colorful city of San Juan. This was our first family trip traveling by air in 2 years so I was extra prepared and overpacked. Prior to traveling we did have to get rapid tests(online appointments required) done for our kids ( ages 3 & 2) at the CVS minute clinic, within 48 hours of traveling. For myself and Marjan since we are fully vaccinated, we presented that information to get a QR code upon entrance into the Luis Munoz Marin airport. If you are curious, you can find further information on travel guidelines here.  We flew from Dulles IAD and our total travel time was little under 3.5 hours. I packed coloring & learning activity packs from the dollar section at Target and they did keep the kids engaged for quite a while ( in case any fellow parents are looking for plane activities). 

Condado Beach
Our Airbnb was about a 12 minute Uber ride from the airport located in Condado Beach -a busy touristy area filled with hotels, shops, restaurants & beaches within walking distance. Our Airbnb host was very generous with sharing local recommendations for tourist attractions, restaurants & family friendly tips. We tried to explore on foot (bring comfortable shoes )for the most part and fair warning, the winds are challenging. The local beaches by the way are absolutely beautiful and very family friendly. We spent two whole mornings at the beach and with the music from the local stands, the fresh coconut water & pina colados in pineapples, the island breeze, all of it . A VIBE. 
We were able to find local restaurants through recommendations our Airbnb host gave but also just by walking in and reading yelp reviews. Here are a few of our local favorites in Condado Beach area that were great with several options-
Senor Paletas - If you're looking for ice cream bars with seasonal flavors on a hot day, do walk in to this cute shop. We tried the guava cheese, tamarindo, pistachio & passionfruit flavors and they were all delicious.
For a quick on the go breakfast spot in Condado beach, do check out Waffler Avenue. Their menu consists of waffles of course besides regular breakfast items & also acai bowls which I enjoyed. 
For a sit down dining spot, we really enjoyed Tostado for breakfast. Their mini pancakes and coffee hit the spotttt! trust me! 
​Serafina is an upscale Italian restaurant chain with beautiful outdoor dining and great music. The menu accommodates everyone and we thoroughly enjoyed dining their. Keep in mind they have a very long wait list so try to arrive earlier in the evening to get seated outdoors.

Old San Juan
Old San Juan is about a 5 minute Uber ride from Condado beach and filled with rich history from the 16th century. The San Felipe del Morro fortress is worth exploring for an entire day along with its breathtaking views. 
The bright streets of Old San Juan are vibrant and cheerful and every corner is worth capturing on your camera. Restaurants are bustling at all hours of the day so be sure to keep that in mind in regards to wait times. There are a few fresh fruit and juice stands in the plazas and are perfect for a balmy hot day. A few highly recommended restaurants in Old SJ we didnt get to try but were raved by locals - Barrachina & Raices. We went to Cafe Manolin for lunch and really enjoyed the local favorites (their habanero hot sauce was everything)​

Lastly if you're in the miramar area of town, I do highly recommend checking out Casita Miramar for not only their colorful venue but their inventive Carribean dishes were great for a special evening. 
Overall we fully enjoyed San Juan and know there is so much more we didnt get to experience. From my research leading up to our visit, the local art shops and museums are great for an enthusiast. 
One of the best aspects of Puerto Rico travel is that it funds more than fun. Its common knowledge that the island has experienced numerous challenges, from natural disasters to economic struggles. Every dollar spent on local tours, hotel stays, shopping and dining helps the people of Puerto Rico bounce back. 
Let me know if youre planning on taking a trip or have visited before.
Thanks for reading!
​Sophia 
​

Happy Wednesday friends!
....And we are in March! 
I can almost FEEL spring in the air. How was your February? My month was filled with the usual sprinkled with a couple of fun Galentine's get togethers with close friends,  a  John Mayer concert that Marjan & I attended (mom & dad's night out) at the Capital one arena together. While life is always busy, I always try to find the time ( keyword TRY) to listen to a few podcasts or read. This month I read 'Edie Richter is not alone '( A story about a woman coming face to face about a truth she has been trying to avoid. It's funny & heartbreaking at the same time. If you're looking to read something in the same genre, I'd recommend checking out the outline. Word of caution- it does center around grief). I also continued listening and obsessing with The worlds first podcast as well as Smartless. If you're looking to find entertaining yet informative podcasts, check these two out.  
In terms of TV shows I watched on Netflix - The woman in the house across the street from the girl in the window, Tinder swindler, Inventing Anna , The Hookup Plan  (A French series about friends & their romances- a comedy/drama. Subtitles available of course). Have you watched any of these?
I'm continuing with Heather Robertson's 12 week 2.0 Free YouTube program and if you're looking to commit to a routine & need the motivation or extra push, I'd recommend checking this one out.
While the wide legged white pants & Abercrombie curve love jeans I shared on IG stories were very popular this month, here are a few of my favorite purchases/staples I've enjoyed in February and hope you may find of use.
1. old navy pajamas (these cotton pajamas, come in several fun prints and are $35)
​2. crew statement hoops ( great quality and if you're like me and love the oomph it adds to everyday outfits, these hoops are for you)
3. mini mac lipstick ( in shade mocha)
4. Gold Tea strainer ( $8 ideal for loose leaf tea or even sprinkling powdered sugar on your favorite desserts) 
5. Vegan leather belt ( If you're looking for a staple belt- this is a great option)
6. chain link bracelet ( A very good non expensive option for the chain bracelet - under $13)

Is there something you would like to add to the mix? Or recommend I check out and share?
I do plan on sharing a Spring staple outfit reel & budget friendly Spring dresses reel in the coming week or two. Styling reels are a challenge to put together, film & edit but I greatly appreciate the ideas some of you have been sharing . Please continue to slide into my DMs.. kidding! I did share a floral arrangement hack that Tiktok really loved. Also this easy quiche recipe that took no time and made breakfast meal prepping for the week, a breeze. Would you be interested in more cooking/hacks/lifetyle reels?
Tell me, what you have planned in the coming month?
A few things we are looking forward to - Friends visiting us from Atlanta and a trip to Puerto Rico with the kiddos! Our first flight together is January 2020- send good vibes please & tips!
Thanks for reading and being here.
Have a great week!
​Sophia

Outfit details-
Wrap top on sale - here 
Wide legged pants on sale (under $35)- here 
Bag - here 
Sunglasses- here

Happy February friends! 
Did January feel like a long month or was it just me? Hope you have had a good start to the year so far. Started off the year with a quick girls trip to Charleston and it was such a welcome break. I've visited Charleston(great family friendly city but also perfect for a quick girls or romantic getaway) a few times before and always enjoy the food scene so much. I have a list of recommendations here if you're looking to visit. With kids back to school after a long winter break and being under the weather, and work in full swing along with life commitments (mostly trying to keep kids busy indoors in the cold) and blogging projects, January has been a very productive month. While life and work has been busy, I've enjoyed sneaking in an audio book and some podcasts. Absolutely loved reading A woman is no man and would highly recommend.  My current podcast obsession has been The Foster sisters' podcast The World's First Podcast and have been binging all the episodes. They tackle multiple relatable everyday topics that are not only enlightening but their humility is refreshing.  I also started a new at home workout program- Heather Robertson 2.0 free 12 week program on youtube here . I did her previous 12 week program last summer and saw a significant difference in toning. I share free workout youtube videos in a highlight here. We celebrated our 6 year wedding ( nikkah - islamic wedding ) anniversary this past weekend at Tail up Goat in DC and thoroughly enjoyed trying from the Michelin guide menu. The dress pictured (linked here) would be great for any upcoming celebrations or a wedding guest outfit.
​I have a long list of favorites to share from this past month and from last year's monthly Friday Favorite Fives I got some great feedback. I usually try my best to share items on sale or finds I think would be useful as soon as possible on stories & my latest favorite has been styling items on reels. For example I shared a petite denim try on with Express here or if you're looking for daily winter outfit inspiration, shared this one here. So here is a roundup for you ICYMI.
​
WINTER FAVORITES
With winter in full swing and no sight of spring just yet, I've picked up a few everyday trusted items like these fleece leggings priced at $18, these petite soft fleece joggers, this fleece pullover under $20, these lace up lug boots that I got in the cream color but is also available in black. A couple of items I've had for 2 winters now that I reach for often - This oversized sweater from amazon is a great winter staple & these fleece lined combat boots that have been great in the snow. I've linked everything below on my liketoknowit page here. 

​Next up, and my favorite type of shopping these days ( after home decor shopping) is shopping for my toddlers and wishing I could get them in adult sizes for myself. All of these are on sale currently and would transition well into Spring. Linked all here 

MAKEUP, HOME & ACCESSORIES FINDS
Linking a few finds that I recently purchased for everyday use. Would also be cute as V-day gifts like these under $15 sunglasses, these blue light glasses that I wear since I'm on the computer for long hours, these heart shaped cookie cutters that are the perfect excuse to bake cookies for the upcoming Valentines day season or really anytime , this $5 peony candle that you need to check out on your next Target trip, this giorgio armani luminous silk foundation I've loved since last summer & lastly this earring set (here and here) that I wear almost everyday.

And that's all for January. I told you it would be a long list but I wanted to capture everything that you would find useful. So what do you think of this new format of monthly favorites Do you prefer the stories format or blog format?
Would love to hear your thoughts.
Hoping this new month is productive, healthy & filled with love for you.
Thanks for reading always,
Sophia

• Practicing the art of slowing down/pausing- The last few years have been quite eventful ( to say the least) not only as a society but also personally. It felt like the only way to keep up was to go 100 mph which in turn affected all aspects of my daily life. This year I am hoping to take a pause when needed. Allowing myself more grace and asking for help when possible, ordering meal plans/services for the family, solo coffee dates, and learning to prioritize social events.
• Learning to say no- This one is a big one for so many of us when it comes to our social lives but also professionally. Last year I ended up walking away from a firm after working there for 9 months and it was probably the most liberating feeling. I have been in Finance for about 15 years now and I was unable to manage the workload at this firm. I consciously made this decision after doubting my skills and bandwidth for months. I was lucky to return to my previous firm where work life balance is a high priority. In retrospect it was a decision I should’ve probably made sooner but as women especially we are so afraid to say no or not be able to balance everything on our plates. At the end of the day, what matters most is our own personal peace of mind. So here’s to saying no to anything that doesn’t serve us.
• Continuing to prioritize my physical health- In the last couple of years, I have dedicated 30 min+ daily to doing in home workouts (mostly HIIT, strength training, Pilates or kickboxing) and it has been such a positive way to start my day. I have a highlight on my instagram page under "workouts" where you can find free youtube links that I follow. No matter how the day ends, I know I dedicated those 30 mins to myself and those endorphins help with overall stress relief. A few youtube pages I follow are Heather Robertson, GrowingAnnanas, PopSugar Fitness & Natacha Oceane.
• Seeing a (grief) therapist regularly- In the last few years I've experienced many highs & lows personally and to cope with the events, one of the wisest decisions I made, was to seek out a grief therapist. I am hoping to make time for it as much as possible this year and continue on that journey.
• Practicing patience with my kids - This is sort of a more long term goal but lets take it one step at a time. While we are on the topic of doing inner work, I feel my patience running thin with my toddlers when they have meltdowns ( I guess this is a glimpse into our future with teenagers). I am learning that when toddlers are throwing tantrums it's more about them trying to express their emotions and less about them trying to push limits. And while I would like to allow space for them to express their emotions I also would like to be able to understand how to better communicate/understand them. Fellow moms, do you have any wisdom to share?
• Decluttering spaces every few months/seasons - I recently decluttered my closet & the kids' dressers over the holidays and it feels so much lighter and fresher. It is true, if it's not bringing you joy, it is time to evaluate if you still need it.
• Decorating a few remaining corners of our home - While we mostly were lucky to be able to furnish our home this past spring, we still have some spaces that need attention. Recently I have been trying to figure out a canvas art piece for our dining room & much needed drapes & curtains throughout our home. Cannot wait to share once all the pieces come together.
• Continue renting clothing for special occasions vs purchasing- Last year I was introduced to the brand Wardrobe that is essentially an Airbnb for clothing. I have significantly reduced spending on clothing for special occasions thanks to being able to rent statement pieces which include accessories too. Also the rental cost is a fraction of the retail price (almost close to unbelievable). If you are interested, you can get $25 off your first rental with code MC60 here
• Shifting gears, I had a single resolution last year of adjusting my expectations in relationships; and while I am still a work in progress in that department, I hope to continue supporting friends who have unwaveringly done the same ( go. little. rockstar)
• Audiobooks & podcasts- In the last 2 years with the pandemic, long walks while listening to an audiobook or a good podcast episode was very therapeutic and it has become more of a habit now, that I hope to continue. I also share my book & podcast recommendations under a highlight on instagram .
• Lastly, this year I am hoping to revive this blog while simultaneously sharing content over on Instagram. 2021 was a fun year with a few exciting and meaningful blog partnerships which allowed me to continue and cultivate this hobby. I also registered A Dash of Sophie as a business which was a pretty cool moment. I greatly appreciate all the support and opportunities to continue adding value in this space. Seriously, thank you!

Would love to hear what your thoughts are on resolutions in general. Have you been successful with keeping them in the past? Are there any that you hope to continue in the coming years?
Thank you for reading.
Wishing you a great year ahead.
​Sophia

Happy holidays friends! Hope you're doing well, staying in good spirits and most importantly, good health. I had shared this gift guide on Black Friday a few weeks ago over on stories  & my LTK page and seemed like quite a few friends found it useful. So I am re-sharing the gift guide for your reference in case youre looking to get a present for a loved one. I've shared these, keeping in mind specific needs for a friend, coworker, neighbor, family member or anyone important to you (scroll down). Let me know what you think or if you have any feedback or would like me to help find anything in specific for you. 

1. Bliss plush throw for the friend who is always cold. Linked here 
2. 12 ounce insulated coffee mug for the mom friend who has to reheat her coffee too many times. Linked here
3. Set of 2 1 lb bangle weights for the friend into fitness. Linked here
4. Hand creme set for the friend who is always complaining of dry hands. Linked here
5. Daywear skincare set for the friend who loves a good skincare routine. Linked here 
​6. Classic bloom set of 12 loose leaf tea for the friend who will never say no to a cup of tea.  Linked here 
​7. Soft pajamas for the friend who appreciates good loungewear. Linked here 
8. Makeup brush set for the friend who enjoys makeup .Linked here 
9. Initial pendant necklace for the friend who appreciates a good classic jewelry piece.  Linked here 
10. Reversible faux leather tote for the friend who carries her entire life in her bag. Linked here 
11. Perfect night's sleep candle for the friend who appreciates self care. Linked here 
12. Bamboo cutting board for the friend who spends too much time in the kitchen. Linked here 
13. Color and care hydrating lip set for the friend who is always losing their chapstick. Linked here 
14. Set of bath bombs for the friend who appreciates self pt II . Linked here 
15. At home gel manicure set for the friend who loves a good manicure but doesn’t have the time. Linked here 
16. Supergoop sunscreen for the friend who enjoys being outdoors, all year long.Linked here