prairie girl musings

Category: Summer

  • Our Romantic Night Away with Akaroa Glamping

    Our Romantic Night Away with Akaroa Glamping

    When Akaroa Glamping invited Nick and I on a weekend getaway, we couldn’t pack our bags fast enough.

    Banks Peninsula is one of our favourite places to explore and Akaroa holds many special memories. We always talk about how wonderful it would be to own a little cottage on the main drag, especially since it’s just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch.

    Located just outside the township, Akaroa Glamping is found in Takamatua Bay. The drive itself is an adventure, with twists, turns, inclines and even a little stream to cross. It truly feels remote and ‘off the beaten track’ which is ideal for anyone who needs an escape. I’m not big on camping, but glamping is a completely different ballgame. We were spoiled with privacy, room to stretch out, and one of the comfiest beds I’ve ever slept in.

    Akaroa Glamping is a unique experience with two sites that overlook the harbour. Our spacious tent had ample room for lounging (there are even two chairs inside in case the weather isn’t on your side) and its own front deck with a table and chairs to take in the views. There’s a bathroom and shower around back and a fully-equipped kitchen (complete with extraordinary views).

    We arrived just before sunset and decided to prepare a little platter to enjoy with our go-to wine of choice, Black Estate rosé. Afterwards, we went out for a late dinner at newly opened Mandala (highly recommend) for Pacific Indian fare, followed by the All Blacks game at the pub. The next morning, we stopped by Rona’s next digs for coffee and a quick bite before heading back to Lyttelton (Nick had a sailing regatta). We didn’t have enough time to do one of the many walks in the area, but their website has plenty of information if you’re in need of inspiration.

    If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind this summer, I highly recommend a stay at Akaroa Glamping. Ever so slightly removed from the activity of Akaroa, it’s a beautiful spot to immerse yourself in nature and recharge the batteries.

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    Photography by Malia Rose

  • Summery Cocktails For A Southern Hemisphere Christmas

    Summery Cocktails For A Southern Hemisphere Christmas

    There are endless articles on festive favourites like spiked eggnog and hot chocolate with Baileys, but I rarely come across Christmassy beverages for those of us in the Southern Hemisphere. After attending Liquor King’s re-imagined Carlton store opening, I felt inspired to create a selection of cocktails to serve at my upcoming events. It’s an exciting summer, I’m turning thirty, spending Christmas/New Years with Nick’s family and getting married in March. Needless to say, I want to get in the spirit with a drink or two.

    Each of these four cocktails is super straightforward to make, with minimal ingredients and little prep time, so you can focus on what’s important — spending time with your loved ones. They’re all light, of the easy drinking variety and pair nicely with anything from Christmas brunch to an after work BBQ.

    White Wine Sangria: New Zealand is known all over the world for its white wine, so crafting white wine sangria is a no brainer. Light and refreshing, this drink is easily adaptable to suit your personal tastes. This chardonnay version is made with strawberries, oranges and a handful of berries. It’s a summery and more Kiwi version of the Spanish original.

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    1 750mL bottle of Wither Hills Chardonnay
    3 oranges (cut into wedges)
    1 lemon (cut into wedges)
    A handful of strawberries
    A handful of frozen berries
    1/2 litre lemonade or Sprite

    Top with ice and enjoy outside in your backyard or at the beach.

    Aperol rosé: Combining my two favourite drinks, Aperol Rosé is the most refreshing drink you’ll have all summer. The Italian favourite has become increasingly popular in New Zealand over the past few years. I like to think of it as my summertime negroni.

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    Fill glasses with ice cubes
    Pour three parts (75ml) of Daniel Le Brun sparkling rosé, chilled
    Then, pour three parts Aperol (50ml)
    Finish with a dash of sparkling/soda water (25ml)
    Garnish with a slice of orange and strawberries

    Pimms Punch: A refreshing staple served at Christmas lunch and throughout the summer months, Pimms Cups are a British, and by default, Kiwi tradition. I can’t wait to make another batch of Pimms for my 30th birthday this weekend. I made this version without cucumber as Nick isn’t a fan, but feel free to add Lebanese cucumber if you’d like! As with sangria, it’s easier to make a batch in a pitcher and then to top up with ice as needed.

    1/2 litre Pimm’s No. 1 Cup
    2 cups of lemonade
    1/2 orange, thinly sliced.
    1 lemon, halved lengthways, thinly sliced.
    4 strawberries, hulled, washed, quartered.
    4 small sprigs fresh mint.
    Ice cubes to serve.

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    Rhubarb G&T: Although rhubarb’s prime season is April to June, it’s pretty common to find it throughout the summer. It’s my favourite fruit and I love adding it to anything and everything. If you’re after a ruby red cocktail to feel extra festive, mix with gin and tonic. If you’re pressed to find fresh rhubarb, cordial is an easy option.

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    For the rhubarb syrup:
    Cut rhubarb into 2.5 cm chunks, making sure to discard any leaves. Combine rhubarb, sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and then cook until rhubarb is soft and beginning to break down, about 3 minutes.

    Strain through a mesh strainer and reserve solids to make jam or a pie. Chill syrup in the refrigerator until ready for use.

    For the cocktail:
    Fill a tall glass with ice. Add Tanqueray London Dry Gin and rhubarb syrup, then fill the glass with tonic. Stir, garnish with lime wedge and enjoy immediately!

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    What are your favourite summery beverages? Do you like mixing it up for the holiday season?

    Photography by Reuben Looi.

    This blog post is sponsored by Liquor King, but all opinions are my own. 

  • The Launch of Kobo’s New E-Reader

    The Launch of Kobo’s New E-Reader

    Yesterday I attended Kobo’s pool party where they shared some very exciting news.

    With the help from the fabulous AquaLillies, they announced the launch of their newest WATERPROOF device!

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    I’m super accident-prone and ruined my previous e-reader whilst on holiday in Mexico, oops!

    The event was both fashionable and clever; well-attended by media types and bibliophiles alike. The weather was perfect for an evening pool party as temperatures hit 30 degrees. Gathering around a pool with slushy cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres was a great way to beat the heat! Here are a few photos from the event, which was held at Muzik Pool Bar:

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  • Road Trip Essentials

    Road Trip Essentials

    I’m about to embark on my first road trip of the summer. We’re heading to Montreal for Osheaga, and today’s task (before I leave for work) is to pack. Packing for a road trip, particularly a festival road trip, is not an easy task. It’s important to travel lightly, after all it’s only a weekend getaway. But it’s also crucial not to forget the necessities to make it a memorable holiday. Here are my road trip essentials:

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    Music and Entertainment: We’re headed to Canada’s most talked about music festival, after all! I was sure to stock my iPod with music by all my favourite artists, Imagine Dragons, Mumford & Sons, Vampire Weekend, The Cure, Ellie Goulding, and the list goes on…

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    Water and snacks: Travelling by car from Toronto to Montreal, it’s important to pack some goodies to sustain us over the six-hour drive. I’m obsessed with unsalted almonds, sliced apples and cheese. Better yet, bake your own treats to share with your friends. I also always like to have a water bottle on hand, so I can sip at my convenience.

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    Appropriate clothing: I have the slightest obsession with stripes and denim. My suitcase is currently filled with dungarees, old Levi cut-offs and not one, but three striped shirts. Also, don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat to protect your hair and skin. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time outside since it’s summer in Canada (and we need to make the most of it, kids!)

    Your favourite sunnies: My Karen Walker sunglasses are a must for any road trip or outing. I’m obsessed with her designs, they make a statement and you’ll be sure to stand out in a crowd!

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    Limited toiletries: You’re going on a road trip, so minimalism is key. Don’t pack your entire lipstick collection and please, do not pack your hair straightener. Keep it simple, spritz some surf spray in your hair, braid your hair, wear it natural. If there’s a time to limit your makeup routine to mascara and a bit of bronzer, it is now. And don’t forget a bottle of sunscreen!

    Cash: Take out cash so you can chip in for petrol and have money on-hand in case you need to grab food or beer at the festival. It’s also a great way to budget. Take out enough for the whole weekend, and aim to only spend that amount!

    Well, there you have it! These are my road trip essentials. Please comment below to add to my list. What do you pack when you’re heading off on a weekend trip?

    Stay tuned for my Club Monaco fashion haul and Montreal/Osheaga post!

  • How I Style Overalls (Dungarees)

    In case you haven’t noticed, overalls aren’t just for farmers anymore. Here’s how to style them to look fashion-forward this summer.

    1. Hem (or in my case, roll up) the bottoms to elongate your legs and make yourself look less like a fifth grader.

    2. Accessorize with a cute, standout top or wear something very basic. A shopgirl at one of my favourite boutiques wears hers with a plain white singlet, and looks FABULOUS.

    3. Don’t forget about your shoes! I love overalls with Swedish Hasbeens. They add a certain sophistication to your overall (pun intended) look. Also, your legs should be on display since the rest of your shape will be somewhat compromised.

    4. If your torso is wider like mine, wear your handbag strap across your body.

    5. Although my hair is down in my photo, I love the look of overalls paired with a high bun.

    What do you think of overalls for the summer? Are you into this trend, or is too reminiscent of your elementary-school days? Let me know by leaving a comment!

  • Twenty Reasons I Love Summer (Toronto Edition)

    Twenty Reasons I Love Summer (Toronto Edition)

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    1. Fashion is simple and baring one’s legs is perfectly acceptable.

    2. Pool parties with copious amounts of beverages and floatation devices are a thing.

    3. Havaianas are the closest I can get to walking around barefoot.

    4. I’m allowed to eat as much ice cream as I desire.

    5. Running outside (to counteract said ice cream) is far more pleasant in the (spring, fall and) summer months.

    6. There’s always something going on. Toronto comes ALIVE in the summertime.

    7. I’m allowed to laze by the lake for at least a week, maybe two.

    8. OSHEAGA Music Festival is the place to be during August long. And festival fashion is my kinda fashion.

    9. Exhibitions, fairs, carnivals (whatever you’d like to call ’em) are an excuse to eat mini donuts and candy apples, then scream your lungs out on rides called Vertigo and Gravitron.

    10. Dining outside is a daily occurrence.

    11. Baseball games are an affordable and fun way to spend an afternoon.

    12. The sunsets are breathtaking.

    13. TIFF in the Park is re-inventing and urbanizing the drive-in movie theatre.

    14. BBQs. Need I say more?

    15. It’s the perfect time to wear your favourite Karen Walker sunglasses! Harvest are my personal faves!

    16. Everyone is out and about, making the most of the season.

    17. Road trips are much more pleasant (and safe) in the summertime!

    18. Rooftop patios are a weekly (sometimes thrice weekly) thing.

    19. There’s nothing better than whiling away the afternoon at The Toronto Islands.

    20. Torontonians sport an abundance of amazing, well done tattoos, that are more visible in the summer months.

  • 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.

  • Club Monaco and other news.

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    Hi friends!

    A lot has happened in my life as of late. Rather than lament the negative, I have decided to focus on the overwhelmingly positive aspects of my summer thus far.

    I have recently started a job with Club Monaco, which is one of my favourite companies. I’m working at the original store on Queen Street West that opened in Toronto in 1985. It is literally one block from my apartment, and if you know me, you know this is worth mentioning. I love being within walking distance of everything. Since Club Monaco was purchased by Polo Ralph Lauren, they have adopted a much trendier, cutting-edge aesthetic. My older sister, Stephanie was an avid Club Monaco customer since she was five (I’m partially kidding) and through her, I kept up with the company. I fell in love with their visual displays and digital platforms. Their website is spectacular as are their Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter accounts. Their clothes suit the business/professional lifestyle that I will one day attain!

    In other news, I will be attending Osheaga music festival in Montréal again this year! I am beyond thrilled to check out my favourite artists in one of my favourite cities. My sister, Natalie will be joining me and we’ll be meeting up with other friends as well.

    I was also able to spend nearly two weeks at home in Saskatchewan with my immediate and extended family. The circumstances that brought us together were less than ideal, but I’ll cherish these moments regardless. I’ve always been close to my family and these past two weeks have magnified these feelings of gratitude. I am truly blessed to have an abundance of relatives who care about my wellbeing.

    I have a few more exciting things to tell you, but I’ll wait until next time!

    Until then,
    Vanessa

  • Summer Fashion Trends

    Summer Fashion Trends

    I am officially on a shopping ban.

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    You read that correctly. I’ve made a bet with an undisclosed individual that I will not shop for the entire summer, that is until September 2013. Those who know me know how challenging this endeavour will be. However, it has forced me to go through my closet and work with the already abundant selection of garments I have.

    Without further ado, here are my six favourite summertime trends:

    1. Lace. I have a thing for lace, and nothing beats a white-hot lace top with high-waisted denim shorts, or a vibrant pink lace skirt paired with a denim button-down shirt. Bring it on.

    2. Denim shirts. Yes, I am Canadian and yes, I do love denim more than your average bear. It just goes with everything and it is easygoing, unpretentious and casual. I feel as though anyone can wear denim, which I love. I’ll be rocking my denim shirts and denim jackets all summer long.

    3. Basket-weaver sandals. While I’m not sure the official name for these sandals, but I must say I’m in love. Paired with anything from a floral sundress to a striped t-shirt and shorts, basket-weaver sandals are the way to go this summer. I bought a Steve Madden pair (pre-ban) for $30, what a steal!

    4. Dungarees. Okay, so I could call them overalls, but I much prefer the British term, “dungarees” because it’s more fun to say! Socialites all over the globe have made this a must-try summer trend, and I can’t help but love the effortless look.

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    5. Summer sequins. Who can resist a little glitter? Pair a sequin skirt with a white top or sweater in the summertime for a look that takes you from day to night. Keep the rest of your outfit simple and chic to avoid overkill.


    6. Calf-length skirts. Come on, show off a little calf. I love where these skirts hit the leg, they aren’t quite maxi. No time for a pedicure? No problem, just lace up your boots or brogues.

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    xoxo, Vanessa

     

  • Gumboots, meet your match!

    Gumboots, meet your match!

    Festival season is upon us! This time of year has always been a favourite of mine. Not only am I able to wear rubber boots and traipse around with flowers in my hair, I’m spoon fed some of the best music by my favourite artists, and able to explore new artists not yet discovered. In preparation for OSHEAGA in Montreal, Quebec, I selected garments with the precision of a Ukrainian gymnast (too soon?)  I couldn’t help but peruse archives from Coachella and Glastonbury for outfit inspiration. Kate Moss really set the standard at Glastonbury, when she first donned her Hunter wellies. They are now an iconic item not only for festival goers, but also for students in rainy climates worldwide. I did see one or sixteen festival goers in Montreal sporting these covetable wellies.

    OSHEAGA featured an eclectic range of bands from The Black Keys to Aloe Blacc to Austra. My favourites were undoubtedly as follows:

    Florence and the Machine (I’ve seen her before, she continues to impress and amaze!)

    Yeasayer, they are so very entertaining to watch! The crowd was equally as energetic!

    Of Monsters and Men – why aren’t they more famous? They are wonderful!

    Austra featuring local talent from my hometown, Ryan Wonziak!

    M83, also underrated and incredible!

    Bloc Party because they know how to get a crowd amped up!

    Justice. I never thought I would enjoy them as much as I did! I was D.A.N.C.E.ing the night away. Bonus: a professional hip hop dancing set up camp next to us and her moves accentuated the music perfectly!

    Passion Pit, I couldn’t help but dance foolishly and clap my hands continuously throughout their set.

    Honourable mentions to The Black Keys, I knew they’d be wonderfully melodic and hugely popular. Their set definitely delivered, but I think I’d prefer to see them on their own in an auditorium. The Shins were also amazing. I regret not seeing MGMT and Bombay Bicycle Club, but there were simply way too many shows that conflicted. Next time!

    Here are some of my favourite festival looks, featuring celebrities and non-celebrities alike: