prairie girl musings

Category: Holidays

The Highs and Lows of a Summer Christmas
Now that I’ve experienced my fair share of Southern Hemisphere Christmases, I thought it was time to share my thoughts on swapping snow for sand. Having grown up in the Northern Hemisphere, I’ve always associated Christmas with reindeer, sleigh rides and candy canes. I love wrapping myself up in sweaters and sipping mulled wine by the fire. Sure, there’s much to love about Christmas on the beach, but plenty to miss about a cosy winter Christmas. Let’s dive in, shall we?

What I miss about winter Christmas…
1. Winter is a dreary time, but having the holidays to look forward to really makes all the difference.
2. The nostalgic (commercial) side of Christmas doesn’t quite work in the Southern Hemisphere and it all feels a bit disjointed to me. I remember my first Christmas in Hawaii at the age of eight. I was so confused when I saw Santa in board shorts on a surfboard. Christmas carols and movies don’t quite work either, so I find it harder to get into the festive spirit.
3. New Zealand businesses shut down over the holiday period. While many people LOVE this, I am somewhat indifferent as a freelancer. It also makes for very busy roads and beaches. I personally prefer to escape during the cold months.
4. I love a traditional Christmas dinner and my family goes all out on Christmas Eve with twelve (carb-heavy) dishes. I can’t justify eating my body weight in perogies if I’m going to have to put on a swimsuit a few hours later.
5. Christmas lights aren’t a necessity for a summer Christmas because the sun doesn’t set until 9PM. Traditional pine Christmas trees also seem out of place.
6. You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced a Christmas market, especially in places like the UK and Germany where the food is incredible and everyone’s drinking mulled wine.
7. Getting cosy (aka hibernating) and not having to leave your house for days on end is particularly appealing.
8. Everyone who visits brings delicious food, which makes leaving your house even more unnecessary.
What I love about summer Christmas…
1. Long daylight hours mean plenty of time to catch up with friends and family. The warmer weather means picnics on the beach and evening swims in the ocean.
2. Frequent BBQs are another reason to love a summery holiday season. We just had friends over last night and it was delightful.
3. The outdoor cinema game is next-level and it’s nice being able to sit on a lawn chair, with a drink in hand, rather than freezing in your car.
4. Christmas markets exist in the Southern Hemisphere as well and you can wear sunnies and shorts.
5. There are endless options for holiday parties and they are actually enjoyable.
6. It’s prime concert and festival season and New Zealand has an incredible festival scene. Two of the best are Laneway in January and Nostalgia in February. [Here’s a blog post I wrote on why Nostalgia’s my favourite festival ever…]
7. Summer holidays are an excuse to take extended trips to different parts of the country or Australia.
8. To be fair, the food and drink options are excellent as well:
- Pavolva is bomb and you can load it up with all the fresh fruit of your choosing.
- There are grazing tables galore. Seriously, the platter game is strong in Australasia.
- It’s an excuse to eat ice cream on the daily. The scoop below was from a small shop in New Plymouth.
- Fresh fruit on the side of the road makes for the perfect road trip snack.
Photo by Nancy Zhou

In all honesty, I haven’t felt very festive this year. There’s a lot on my plate at the moment and I’m not-so secretly waiting until after my thirtieth birthday next week to officially begin celebrating. Another reason I might not be prepared to fully embrace a Kiwi Christmas is the fact that my family’s not here. I’m very lucky that Nick’s family has always welcomed me in with open arms and Christmas with them is always fun!

Adopting a sunnier disposition towards summer Christmas isn’t that hard, really. If you’ve experienced the holidays in both hemispheres, which do you like more?
December 9, 2018
PGM’s Local Gift Guide

My fondest memories are of family Christmases, whether at home for a snowy Christmas in Canada or in New Zealand for a BBQs and picnics on the beach. I’ve been looking forward to Christmas this year even more than usual because my parents are visiting! They’ll be visiting Christchurch, seeing our first home, and exploring the South Island for the very first time.

Despite loving the holidays, I still struggle with gift-giving. There’s so much pressure to find that perfect gift, it sometimes puts me off gift-giving altogether. My family rarely does gifts apart from necessary household items and holidays/experiences together. For friends and Nick’s family, on the other hand, I’m always on the hunt for useful, quality goods.

I partnered with Adairs to put together a Christmas gift guide to help you find something special for each person on your list. They have recently opened stores in Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington,

I prefer to shop local whenever possible, so all of these items are available in New Zealand. I’ve broken my list into categories, focusing mainly on those ‘hard to buy for’ individuals who deserve something extra special.

For the new homeowner (or homewares lover, homebody, etc.)

My home (like many of my friends) is starting to look like a greenhouse. With small plants left, right and centre, I immediately fell in love with this three-tier plant holder. Perfect for smaller spaces, it fits well in a corner or behind your couch.

Another welcome addition to any living room is a shaggy, multicoloured cushion Whether for a pop of colour or a more-is-more bedroom, I’m all about mismatched pillows in various fabrics and textures.

Adairs 3-Tier Plant Holder
Adairs Cushion (SOLD OUT) – Similar here and here

If your loved one is a bit of a homebody, they will love the lush rose bathrobe (pictured above) for lounging around the house. I always buy my mum all-natural laundry detergent because it’s a treat I know she appreciates. A vibrant beach towel is another essential for a Kiwi summer spent at the beach.

Mercer + Reid Ultra Soft Bathrobe Rose
Aroma Wash Laundry Liquid 1L Fresh
Mercer + Reid Standard Velour Beach Towel Banana Leaves

For the men in your life

New Zealand mainstay, I Love Ugly opened a pop up shop in Christchurch – just in time for Christmas. On St. Asaph Street (wedged in between rows upon rows of car dealerships), you’ll find this lovely menswear shop. Stock up on goodies for the men in your life. I actually gave Nick his shorts a few weeks early and he’s been living in them!

Frankie Short Sea Foam
Finley Short Black
Initial Tee White
Gentleman’s Brand Co – Face Scrub

For the food and wine lover…

Do you have a friend that’s obsessed with food and drink? How about a picnic in the park, a wine and cheese evening or a basket full of delicious goodies? These are some of my favourite items for that foodie friend who’s already eaten at all the best restaurants in town.

Black Estate – Treble Rosé
Fix & Fogg Peanut Butter – Honey Fix & Fogg Peanut Butter – Honey
J.Friend & Co – Lavender Honey
Heavensent Relish – Aubergine & Chilli
The Chocolate Workshop Salted Caramels
The Fine Cheese Co. – Toast for Cheese (available at Fresh Choice supermarkets)
Home Republic – Luna Salad Servers (Brass)

For the resolution warrior…

We all have one friend who is a machine – charging ahead at their resolutions with resolve and determination. If your loved one is fitspo AF, I’ve got a few gift ideas they’ll love. These items are also great for those who have vowed to hit the gym come 1st January.

S’well Drink Bottle
Nutra Organics – Red Velvet Latte
The Beauty Chef – Holiday Boost Pack
ban.do Day Planner – available at Pepa Stationery

Adairs Wrapping Paper with Gold Spots
Home Republic Festive Gift Tags
Mercer + Reid Triangle Bauble Silver & Champagne
Home Republic Wooden Hanging Houses
Mercer + Reid Festive Lumiere Lights Copper

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet…? What’s on your wish list this year?

This post was sponsored by Adairs, but as always, all opinions are my own.

December 10, 2017
Last Minute Stocking Stuffer Ideas!

Is anyone else struggling with holiday shopping this year? With so many options in Toronto, I’m finding it challenging to decide where to focus my attention. If you’re anything like me, you want creative gift ideas that don’t break the bank. To help alleviate some of your shopping woes (holiday shopping should be fun, not stressful), I’ve compiled a list of stocking stuffers for everyone on your list.

The Sweet Tooth
One of my main priorities this year has been shopping locally. Toronto is filled with so many local businesses, creators, and makers, so why not support them whenever possible? Sloane Tea is one of my favourite companies. I mean, look at that packaging! Although I’m not a massive tea drinker, lately I’ve been finding myself reaching for a cup of Heavenly Cream instead of my regular afternoon coffee. Bobbette & Belle is another Toronto spot that offers plenty of inspiration for stocking stuffers. The Fleur de Sel caramel corn would fit nicely into a small stocking, and is sure to satisfy even the biggest of cravings. Finally, top it off with a beautifully wrapped box of Ferrero Rocher chocolates. I honestly don’t know anyone who doesn’t love these delicious treats.

The Hardworker
Bath bombs and bubble bars make the perfect gift for that hardworking friend on your list. Baths and relaxation go hand-in-hand, so gifting someone this comforting bubble bar from Lush will encourage them to take a break this holiday season. Rose Jam shower gel is back for a limited time, and it smells divine! It’s touted by YouTubers everywhere, so grab it before it sells out! I’m also a fan of Smith’s Strawberry and Rosebud Lip Balms, particularly during the cold, dry months.

The Athlete
While I simply cannot endorse the Toronto Maple Leafs or support purchasing their apparel, Toronto does have a winning team. The Raptors! If you’re looking for something to get the athlete in your life, what about a Raptors hat?

The Urban Explorer
I wrote about Toronto’s new SPACING store a few posts back, and I often find myself returning there for various gifts. I’m especially fond of the Toronto Transit Commission fridge magnets, which would fit perfectly in a stocking! These Smitten Kitten luggage tags (you can collect several Canadian airport codes, including Regina) are available at various independent boutiques, but I picked this one up at The Drake General Store. Books always make lovely presents as far as I’m concerned, and this small paperback is ideal for the traveller. Written by Alain de Botton, A Week At The Airport explores the “non-place” where the author became a writer-in-residence. I want to keep this one for myself!

The Local Lover
Fortunately, Canadian made products aren’t hard to come by in Toronto. Worn Journal released it’s final issue, so now is the perfect time to grab a copy for someone special. Check out this list for a retailer near you. I’ve received so many comments on my matchbook from Likely General. It’s a cute stocking stuffer for anyone who loves lighting candles. One of my favourite West End shops is BYOB Cocktail Emporium. The name says it all: bitters, cocktail mixes, glasses, coasters, books, they really have it all! This Ban.do keychain is a darling little gift for anyone on your list. Bicyclette Boutique is the sweetest shop near Trinity Bellwoods Park, and they have a great assortment of Ban.do products, including agendas, mobile phone cases, and hair accessories!

December 18, 2014
My tips for travelling lightly

I had just finished writing a lovely post filled with my travel wisdom and woes. Unfortunately, WordPress decided it wasn’t that great of a post because it’s vanished (even after having saved it multiple times). Regardless, I will leave you with a condensed list of travel advice I’ve learned over the years. As you may already know, I’m taking my first (computer-free) two-week holiday next week. I’ll be visiting London, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and Prague with my friend, Annie – and visiting other comrades along the way.

HOW TO TRAVEL LIGHTLY:

1. You don’t need five pairs of shoes. Aim to pack two to three, and specifically for your plans. I’m attending the Royal Ascot Races in London, so I need a pair of heels. I’ve decided to pack my Swedish Hasbeens (the clogs in the photo above) because they are versatile enough to wear throughout my travels.

2. I understand the desire to pack your dslr camera, especially if photography’s your thing. However, I often challenge myself to leave my Nikon at home at least every couple trips. Instead, I pack a point-and-shoot or my iPhone.

3. Many budget airlines charge extra for checked in luggage. If you can, save your time and money and take only a carry-on.

4. Neck pillows are king!

5. Three words: Thick wool socks. If you must pack heels (or boots), wear them on the plane, and take them off as soon as you sit down. Put on your thick wool socks, and revel in the comfort. Thank me later!

6. Layer up on the flight. It will save you precious luggage space and the air conditioning is pumping through those vessels.

7. Download city guides (I love Wallpaper Guides by Phaidon) and Rick Steves Audio Europe. Not only will they get you excited for the places you’re about to see, it’s important to gain perspective on the landmarks and monuments in the cities you’re visiting.

8. Book your accommodation in advance! Hostels and hotels tend to fill up fast during high season.

9. Travel by train at least once while in Europe. Catching a train is part of what makes Europe such a special place. Also, the views are spectacular.

10. Don’t fret if you don’t see everything on your travel to-do list. Take it from a chronic planner, sometimes it’s better to take it easy and wander. You’re on holiday after all!

What are your travel tips? I can’t wait to hear about your adventures! xo

June 14, 2014
Water, please!

After taking a dip in the healing plunge pools, Natalie and I were discussing how much we’d kill for a coconut water. As if he’d hear us all along, an unassuming young man sauntered over with a mesh bag full of coconuts. After offering us a drink, he proceeded to carve out the tops. It was the perfect afternoon treat! Costa Rica, you continue to charm us.

February 25, 2014
Global Friends, Part I: SASKATCHEWAN

The Regina “International” Airport: Where it all began.

On December 29th, my first-ever New Zealand visitor set foot in SASKATCHEWAN. Yes, Nick and I have had friends visit us in Toronto. Having someone pop by your chic downtown apartment in Canada’s biggest metropolis cannot compare to the enormity of having your friend from across the world visit your HOMETOWN, in your HOME PROVINCE.

Ashleigh in her new Canadiana, she later jumped into the snow wearing only this and a light parka.

Needless to say, Ashleigh’s reaction to winter in Saskatchewan was priceless. Her lack of skates didn’t stop her from gliding out of the Regina airport into my car. Nor did she realize just how much snow (and it’s been light this year so far) can accumulate in a person’s backyard. There were deer, fox, and coyote spottings from our kitchen, mulled wine, and a minor snowmobile accident. She was also especially fond of my mother’s healthy cooking.

To see one’s hometown through fresh, unbiased eyes is a remarkable experience. It ignited my appreciation for the quaint, rural town where I grew up in ways I never knew were possible. Ashleigh also fell in love with Saskatoon with its beautiful bridges and stunning downtown core.

Note: In order to keep this post from becoming an expose on why prairiegirlmusings came about… I’ll stick to point form.

Other Saskatchewan highlights include:

Reconnecting with old friends and celebrating the marriage of my dear friend, Jill on New Years Eve! If I still worked (read: interned) at Weddingbells, I’d submit Jill and Riley’s wedding to the magazine (their New Years Eve in New York City theme was perfectly executed!)

Now, for some terrifically awful photography by yours truly:

Ash and I with our matching Moochi heels, prior to the wedding.

Didn’t I say the decor and food was top-notch?

Here are some more professional photos that I pinched from the bride (Thank you, Jill!)

An old-fashioned Ortynsky potluck at the Saskatoon apartment:

Trying out Saskatoon’s culinary scene:

We had a delightful pre-flight lunch at Ayden Kitchen & Bar.

Nobody does a latte bowl like Jimmy Oneschuk at Museo.

Stay tuned for Toronto and Montreal blog posts!

Love, Vanessa

January 17, 2014
On why I love December

December brings people together. Friends and family return home for the holidays, there are celebrations left, right, and centre, everyone allows themselves to indulge, (in the best possible way) and we all finally take a few days off from work.

And on Tuesday, I turned twenty-five. Cue the panic attacks!

I’ve always viewed this age as a major milestone. My life has unfolded in unexpected and unimaginable ways. On many fronts, I’ve achieved more than I could have ever hoped for this age: I live downtown in a major metropolis (which was a major goal of mine as an eighteen-year-old prairie girl in North Dakota), I’ve progressed from unpaid intern to receiving respectable compensation to do what I love most (writing and social media!), and I’ve ventured beyond my comfort zone both physically (through travel) and emotionally – to places and spaces I had only dreamed of in high school. These are vague examples of praise because let’s face it: we don’t give ourselves enough credit. We’re guilty of beating ourselves up over our ‘failures’ rather than celebrating how much we’ve grown!

After almost a year in Toronto, I’m beginning to find my footing, to truly feel at home. I spent my first birthday at Guu SakaBar, a rowdy, over-the-top, delicious Japanese restobar and Get Well, a happy hipster hangout on Dundas West with a few absolutely amazing people. Thank you to everyone who made my birthday so special.

Here are some highlights:

Dinner at Guu

Coffee and good conversation with one of my best friends.

Get Well propaganda

Club Monaco friends

Food and Wine Show

Excited for the Club Monaco Christmas Party

Our host and store manager.

The Kennedy siblings always look fierce.

One of many blurry, red-lit photos taken at Brian’s pad.

May the new year bring more of all things good.

December 20, 2013
13 Things I’m Loving Right Now

1. Lorde’s alternate universe in her new Team video.

2. Thai Iced Tea and Massaman curry from Khao San Road

3. These over-the-knee socks from American Apparel.

4. Toronto’s Christmas Market in the historic Distillery District (they have samples of mulled cine and hot scotch cider!)

5. Travelling. I am planning something for 2014 already.

6. My family and having my sisters in Toronto. I feel myself becoming the boring sister, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
7. December, it’s my birthday in two weeks, Christmas in three, and I have made a serious dent in my Advent calendar.

8. Working from home, and achieving a work/life blend.

9. #GivingTuesday because everyone was posting #unselfies and donating to worthy causes like Girls’ Education.

10. Canadiana, Christmas pyjamas and ONESIES. Also, listening to Christmas carols at work. (I know, that’s technically four things)

11. The upcoming nuptials of my friends, Jill and Riley.

12. “Candles are expensive, and they don’t get you drunk.” Regardless, I’ve been burning candles like a madwoman.

13. Awaiting a visit from my Kiwi friend, Ash!

December 4, 2013
8 Holiday Party Looks

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already started your Christmas shopping AND made a dent in your Christmas music repertoire. If there’s one thing I haven’t really thought about, it’s what to wear to the multitude of upcoming holiday fêtes. This year, I’m attending three work parties, planning a minor shindig for my 25th birthday, and attending the wedding of my dear friend, Jill on NYE. This gives me several excuses to get decked out like a disco ball, and continually refer and pin images to my Pinterest board: all that GLITTERS because I’m cool like that.

Are you wondering what to wear throughout the month of December and well into the new year? Here are my favourite options, simply click on the photos to find out where to buy them:

1. I promise I’m not sponsored by Club Monaco, although I do spend an average of 20 hours amongst these beautiful garments every week. Two of my favourite pieces for the holidays are the Hattie skirt and the Kaitlin skirt. They both are holiday essentials as far as I’m concerned. If you’re going out for a dinner, simply pair with a cable knit sweater to dress your look down.

2. You’ll wear this classic yet modern 3.1 Philip Lim dress long after the holidays are over. I like the neckline and sheer sleeves.

3. You can’t go wrong with a little bit of faux fur. Here’s an option that isn’t overwhelming but would certainly amp up your holiday outfit.

4. Add a little bit of plaid to your outfit. I’m in love with this dress by Madewell.

5. If you’re wanting something a little bit more elegant, the Mia dress from Club Monaco is absolutely stunning!

6. You really can’t go wrong with a bit of lace, especially during the holidays. Aritzia keeps it festive with this cranberry-coloured frock.

7. Okay, just one more look from Club M. The embellished Rebecca dress is flattering and just glittery enough to help you stand out.

8. Leather is still very on-trend this season, as are skater skirts. The Tartine dress by Wilfred combines these two trends, which makes for the perfect holiday get-up.

Let me know if you’d like me to do a men’s guide, I’d be all over that!

Happy holidays, friends! xoxo

November 30, 2013