prairie girl musings

Category: Home

  • We moved back to Canada (during a pandemic!)

    We moved back to Canada (during a pandemic!)

    Well, it’s been over a month since I shared an update with you all. In between packing up our home, throwing Nick a surprise 30th birthday, finishing up work projects, and moving continents, life has been hectic.

    As you’d expect, travelling home was mildly stressful. We wore masks for the entirety of three flights and layovers with the exception of meal breaks during our long haul to Auckland to Los Angeles. After having not worn masks in New Zealand (they were not required during the first outbreak) it was a slight adjustment. It took us three days to get back to Saskatchewan as flight options are understandably very limited right now. We overnighted near LAX and it was a ghost town due to safe-at-home orders.

    After landing at the Regina airport,, we drove ourselves to the family cabin at Crystal Lake for our 14-day quarantine. Fortunately, neither of us got sick and we ended up having the most relaxing time. The weather was BEAUTIFUL, so we made the most of it. We did TRX workouts on the deck, made cocktails and applied for jobs (more on that later…) It was the break we didn’t know we needed.

    After quarantining, we drove home to Yorkton to spend a few weeks with my family. My sister, Stephanie and her partner, Mark were home (from Saskatoon) for the long weekend, so it was the first time we were all together in over a year. I hadn’t felt so at ease in forever — the anxiety and stress of moving countries dissipated as I hugged my family, soaked up the endless sunshine and 9pm sunsets. We ate all my favourite meals, watched Hamilton outside on the projector, and enjoyed each other’s company. As cliché as it sounds, there’s nothing quite like a pandemic to make you realize what’s important in life. With everything going on this year, I had my doubts about the added burden of relocating. As it turns out, returning home and being close to family feels like the right decision. 

    The three weeks zoomed by and we soon found ourselves packing up (not that we had much to pack up) and moving to Vancouver. First, we stopped in Saskatoon and Nicole Buhler captured some sunny imagery of the six of us (eight, if you count Loki and Poet!) My parents were tied up with work and unable to take the time off, so we’ll have to get full family photos at Christmas or as soon as our littlest family member arrives (I CAN’T wait to be an auntie!)

    I also caught up with some pals and relatives for physically distant catch ups in Saskatoon, Calgary and Kelowna. The scenic drive across Alberta to British Columbia was good for the soul. I don’t think I’ve ever truly appreciated just how stunning (and vast) our country is before. Having previously lived in Toronto and explored the Maritimes, there’s plenty I haven’t yet seen out west. We were amazed by how similar the landscape in Lake Country (Okanagan) is to Queenstown. Soon after, we arrived in Vancouver to settle in and find a more permanent home. It’s been a whirlwind so far, but we’re thrilled to be here.

    As we settle into our new rhythm here in Vancouver, I’ll be sharing more about apartment hunting, furnishing our new place, and our experience WFH. If you ever want to chat, my comments section and DMs are always open.

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  • What To Wear, Cook, Watch, Read & Listen To While At Home

    What To Wear, Cook, Watch, Read & Listen To While At Home

    Like many of you, I’ve been feeling anxious and slightly panicked over the past days due to our least favourite c-word. Earlier today, our Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern announced that New Zealand will go into lockdown within 48 hours. To me, this offers a such sense of relief as I know it’ll help flatten the curve and reduce case numbers in our small country. It’s so important that we not only follow the government’s instructions, but look after ourselves while in self-isolation. I’ve been self-isolating for over a week already, only leaving the house to pick up essential groceries, so feel like I’m starting to get a handle on it.

    As you might already know, Nick and I were preparing (both physically and mentally) to move overseas in a few short weeks. We’ll be staying put in New Zealand for the foreseeable future as travelling (both domestically and internationally) needs Most of our furniture has been sold, but fortunately some kind friends have lent us their chairs to use in the meantime.

    It’s easy to focus on the negatives right now, but I’ve decided to dedicate my online space to spreading positivity; reminding you to take care of yourself mentally and physically; and hopefully providing a bit of a distraction from the headlines. During these unprecedented times, we’re invited to slow down and spend time on what matters. If you need some inspiration to become more of a homebody, here’s what I’ll be doing this month:

    Wear: Ah, loungewear. Rather than go the whole nine yards and get fully dressed for a day spent working from home, I prefer to take a minimalist approach. Sometimes I’ll change into my workout gear right in the morning, do a lunchtime workout and then shower and put on more everyday clothes for the afternoon/evening. Changing once or twice throughout the day helps elevate my mood.

    I’ve been known to wear my Bassike rugby pants (pictured below) on days when I might need to leave the house (which is quickly becoming a distant memory) as well as linen trousers like these from Hej Hej. I’ve been on the lookout for a matching beige tracksuit similar to this one Hailey Bieber wears so well.

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    Photo by Shayden Whipps

    Cook: I’ve never been much of a chef or baker, but I’m determined to try out a few recipes over the next few weeks. These are the recipes I’ve been bookmarking as of late:

    Banana bread
    Cauliflower fried rice
    Roasted courgette and chickpea salad
    Savoury spinach pancakes
    Dressed beetroot salad

    I’ve started making smoothies every morning as well and my favourite is a green smoothie with spinach, banana, frozen açai, oat milk and peanut butter. I’ve also placed an order for some Grizzly sourdough, hot cross buns and sea salt bagels because this girl needs her comfort carbs.

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    Watch: I’m a big fan of thrillers and the occasional horror film (Midsommar was my jam) but during these anxiety-inducing times, I’ve been allowing myself to binge shows like Queer Eye, Schitt’s Creek and even rewatching Mad Men.  If you haven’t seen Fleabag, it’s the best TV I’ve watched in years! Modern Love (it’s on Amazon) is also incredible, the first two episodes are a must watch. 

    Crash Landing On You is a Korean series I’ve been getting into as well and I’m keen to start watching To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before. Have you seen either of these?

    Listen: Pre-coronavirus, I was already on a bit of a podcast binge, but in the past two days I’ve discovered even more that are worthy of a listen.

    After Work Drinks with Grace O’Neill and Isabelle Truman is my go-to. If you’re struggling with the adjustment of self-isolation, give their recent episode, ‘A Self Isolation Survival Guide’ a listen.

    Don’t Keep Your Day Job with Cathy Heller is an inspiring podcast that I’ve recently started listening to. It’s very aspirational at times, but quite reassuring at the moment.

    Hurry Slow with Jocelyn K. Glei is a podcast about pacing yourself, hosted by Jocelyn K. Glei. Hurry Slowly is a podcast about how you can be more productive, creative, and resilient through the simple act of slowing down.

    Read: I’m ashamed to admit I’ve only finished one book since January. I was such a bookworm growing up, preferring books to other people’s company most of the time (lol), so I’m hoping to get back into reading over the next four weeks. Here’s what I’ve read and loved:

    Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport is brilliant. It’s all about deciding which forms of technology are absolutely essential to you (and your work) and then eliminating the rest.

    The Testament by Margaret Atwood is the perfect follow-up to The Handmaid’s Tale and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s the first book I couldn’t put down in ages!

    Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman is a lovely escape to gorgeous Italian in the summertime (minus the Covid-19 pandemic, of course). I’m just starting this book, but it’s so beautifully written and descriptive. Highly recommend (and watch the film, too!)

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    I’d love to know what you’re wearing, watching, listening to and reading — any book recommendations out there? Sending you all lots of love during this uncertain time.

     

     

     

     

  • Home Sweet Home: Buying Our First Home In Christchurch

    Home Sweet Home: Buying Our First Home In Christchurch

    I’ve never told the story of how Nick and I ended up buying our first home.

    About two years ago, we started looking at places to live in the central city. We had discussed the prospect of home ownership before our move to Christchurch from Toronto, Canada, but the idea still seemed daunting. At that point, our only experience with the housing market took place in two of the world’s most expensive cities, (Auckland and Toronto). Needless to say, we never imagined we’d be able to own property in our twenties.

    Our home buying criteria was based almost entirely on location; it needed to be within the four avenues. We also knew we wanted a house with double glazing, having previously rented places where landlords weren’t willing to invest in efficient and economical heating solutions. We weren’t overly concerned with the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, but wanted something relatively compact and affordable. Settling on what we could afford was the first step. We didn’t want to be house poor and unable to enjoy everything our exciting city had to offer. Even after we started looking, I still wasn’t convinced we’d find something to suit our unique requirements. Out of sheer luck, we found our current home shortly after we began house hunting. Not knowing what to do next, we decided to make an offer after two viewings.

    Neither of us had gone through the process of buying a home before. From getting approved for a home loan, figuring out interest rates and a down payment to securing a mortgage, it was all unknown territory.

    I imagine MANY first time home buyers feel exactly the same. None of my friends are financial or mortgage experts, so we relied on each other to figure it out. When Mortgage Mates asked me to help promote their upcoming information evening, my first thought was how much Nick and I would have benefitted from attending a session before buying our home. As a Kiwi transplant, I wasn’t familiar with the ins and outs of KiwiSaver, so I spent hours googling and poring over online articles. Imagine the time I could have saved had I known about these two-hour sessions!

    After making an offer, some negotiating and a few days spent waiting to hear whether our offer was successful, we settled on a price. It all happened rather quickly, especially given we had only viewed a few different places. While our first home is far from Pinterest-worthy, we feel incredibly lucky it’s ours. We have grand plans to renovate the kitchen and knock out a wall, but presently, we’re happy to have place to call home. Buying our first home together has strengthened our relationship and confirmed our love for this city.

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    Processed with VSCO with a6 presetPhotos by Shayden of Mooch Style. 

    Thinking about making the jump to home ownership? Be sure to head along to Mortgage Mates’ free information evening on 28th February from 6:30-8:30 PM. Register here.

    If you own a home, what was your first home buying experience like? And if you don’t own a home, what would your dream house look like?

    This post was sponsored by Mortgage Mates. As always, all words and opinions are my own. 

  • Global Friends, Part I: SASKATCHEWAN

    Global Friends, Part I: SASKATCHEWAN

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    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.

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    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:

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

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    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!)

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    An old-fashioned Ortynsky potluck at the Saskatoon apartment:Image

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    Trying out Saskatoon’s culinary scene:

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

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    Nobody does a latte bowl like Jimmy Oneschuk at Museo.

    Stay tuned for Toronto and Montreal blog posts!

    Love, Vanessa

  • Land of Living Skies

    Land of Living Skies

    There’s something incredible about returning home after being away for a long period of time. I was recently back in Saskatchewan for the first time since relocating to Toronto. Oddly enough, I came home more frequently when I lived in New Zealand. I’m not sure why I haven’t been home. Perhaps it’s been because of my internship and job hunt. With the oftentimes haphazard scheduling of interviews, I didn’t want to miss out on any opportunities that came my way.

    Regardless, it felt amazing to be back at my parents’ house in Yorkton. They’ve only lived here for the past three years, but it always feels like home. It’s the constant in my ever-changing, never stable life. It’s the place to which I return from wherever I’ve been living. As the complete antithesis of Toronto’s urbanity and chaos, Saskatchewan feels like a retreat, an escape from the everyday challenges I encounter in the Big Smoke. I always harp on about how much I love urbanity, and it’s a necessity for me at this age, but Saskatchewan has indescribable charm and vast beauty that many city dwellers will never experience.

    It’s also a place where my family has lived for a number of years. Throughout my life, I was fortunate to live nearby to all four grandparents. Last week, after the passing of my paternal grandfather, I realized what a luxury it was truly getting to know my grandparents. Many of my cousins, aunties, uncles, and extended family are all located in the prairies as well. It’s serene, with vast blue skies and perpetual sunshine. Most of my childhood and teenage friends still reside in Saskatchewan, which makes for a wonderful reunion whenever I am here.

    When I was completing a multimedia project for my creative writing course at The University of Auckland, I conducted an experiment comparing my two reference points (at the time): The Prairies and The North Island (of New Zealand). It was an introspective assignment that I delved into wholeheartedly. It enabled me to record my experiences with displacement. Should you be interested in reading my exegesis, I’ve attached the link here.

    Saskatchewan, I do not appreciate you enough. You’re a wonderful place to call home.