Summer Break Diaries – Moms, Mayhem & Must-Haves

You know it’s summer in Pakistan when the fridge is loaded with Rooh Afza, the AC remote is missing (again), and your kids are suddenly bored every 12 minutes. Yep, summer vacations are here — and while the kids may be off school, moms? We’re doing overtime.

Between planning trips, dealing with energy levels on hyper-mode, and keeping the house from turning into a warzone, this season is less about “me time” and more about “manage-everything time.”

But hey, we’re pros. And we’ve got tricks up our sleeves — especially when it comes to smart shopping, summer styling, and saving our sanity.

? Let’s Talk Summer Camps

There is a constant buzz on every other WhatsApp group about "STEM camp in DHA," "painting workshop in Clifton," or "tennis classes in Model Town." It's wonderful to see children learning and enjoying themselves, but come on — it's us doing the running around the city, sweating in the sun for simple things.

This year I took a tiny vow to myself: I will not be running around the city sweating in the heat for simple things.
So I stocked up on child-friendly backpacks, water bottles, and light summer wear from this little gem I discovered — H&A Store.
One word: lifesaver.

? Planning a Family Trip? Read This First.

Hunza? Swat? Murree? Or the old "nani ghar" trip?

Wherever you're going, there are three deal-breakers:

• Clothes that can withstand heat and spills

• Shoes that won't blister you on Day 1

• A bag that holds everything but still zips closed

I bought a pair of lightweight co-ord sets, comfortable flats, and an adorable crossbody bag from www.handastore.com, and let's just say: I was put together without trying too hard.

(Also, delivery was super smooth — which is rare these days, tbh.)

? Home is Where the Chaos Is

When the kids are home all day, your house gradually begins resembling a mini zoo.
So I had a mini-makeover. Nothing too flash — just a few storage baskets, new cushion covers, and tidied up the kids' area. It really did make a difference!

Pro tip: don't underestimate the power of tiny tweaks.
Also, don't overspend at shops — I scored amazing pieces online at, you guessed it, H&A Store.

? Style Cheat Code: Summer Edition

Honestly, it's hard to dress up for a Pakistani summer. You want to look good, but not too efforty. You want to be comfortable, but not sloppy.

This is what's working for me this year:

• Flowy matching sets in blends of cotton

• Plain kurtis with statement jewelry

• Slip-on sneakers that go with everything

• A good Eid outfit that's nice and won't leave me a puddle of sweat by 4 PM

If you're also looking for easy-to-wear, good-looking summer wear, have a look at H&A Store — thank me later.

? The Summer Survival Starter Pack (Trust Me)

Yes, it's all in one place. Yes, I keep my life simple.

? Final Thoughts (aka a Mini Pep Talk)

Summer’s not always relaxing — but it can be joyful. It’s messy, hot, unpredictable… but also full of late-night talks, mangoes, laughter, road trips, and memories.

So whether you’re chilling at home, packing for the mountains, or just trying to survive camp drop-offs, do it in style.
And if you can skip the bazaar outing and purchase what you require online — do so. You've earned that respite.

? www.handastore.com — because moms deserve an easy victory.