prairie girl musings

Category: Toronto

Exploring your city

I’m a huge enthusiast of the staycation.

Maybe money is a little tight right now or you’ve used up all your vacation days for the year. Whatever the reason, taking a week or two off may not be on the cards right now. Regardless, it’s important to shake up your routine every now and then. In fact, getting away from your desk is the best way to boost creativity and productivity.

If you work from home, getting outside can be even more crucial. It’s not healthy to spend all day cooped up inside your apartment, which I find myself doing increasingly as the weather cools down and the days become shorter.

Luckily, there are endless ways to shake up your routine. If you’re fortunate enough to live in any urban centre, there’s no excuse for boredom.

Here’s a list of my favourite ways to shake my routine (specific to my current city: Toronto).

1. Pick a new neighbourhood.

Familiarize yourself with one of Toronto’s myriad of neighbourhoods. We so often stick to our local surroundings; be it our favourite cafe, supermarket, or running trail. I urge you to switch it up this week and discover hidden gems in a far flung neighbourhood.

2. Go see a show.

Canadian winters are pretty gruesome. When we first moved back to Canada, Nick and I were quite ambitious in terms of our weekly activities. We went skating, we’d walk everywhere, and we did a lot of window shopping. It didn’t take long for us to notice that Toronto can be quite desolate in the winter months. If the thought of spending even an hour outdoors has you shivering, may I suggest going to see a play or a Broadway show. It’s a great way to get re-inspired and soak up some culture.

3. Cook something.
I’m not the most experienced chef. However, since beginning my working-from-home stint, I’ve been forced to experiment a bit more in the kitchen. I occasionally even bake!

4. Or go out.

There’s bound to be a restaurant or two you haven’t tried (or 2,000 if you live in a metropolis!) Try something you’ve never had before, be it Ethiopian or Lebanese!

5. Network

Photo by Brianne Burnell

Networking can be overwhelming at first, but it’s also a refreshing way to step out of your comfort zone. The hardest part is saying that initial “hello,” but you’ll find common ground in no time and probably leave with a few new contacts, even friends.

7. Spend time with friends you never see

After university many of us manage to get quite busy juggling our work and personal lives. Make time this week for those friends you haven’t seen forever. Plan to do something fun like checking out a new gallery or installation and sharing a meal at a restaurant you’ve never been to.

8. Daydream

Dream a little bigger than you usually do. Write down a few of your quarterly goals, but be a little silly. Maybe you want to have a Wes Anderson movie marathon or each a different dessert every night of the week. It’s easy to get caught up in our diet and fitness regimes and forget that rest and a treat is okay every now and then. And don’t forget to reflect on what you’ve already accomplished. So many of my friends have achieved such amazing things, but they rarely step back to acknowledge their success. Congratulate yourself on making it this far.

9. RELAX

North American culture is founded in productivity. It’s easy to feel out of sorts when you’re not constantly actively progressing towards that next milestone. But take comfort in those smaller moments; the ones that happen between all the excitement. Sometimes just settling down with a big cup of coffee can be exactly what you need.

November 3, 2014
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!

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:

August 27, 2014
The Ides of March

March 15th, also known as The Ides of March became notorious as the date of the assassination of Julius Caesar. The Roman Senate had named Caesar dictator perpetuo (“dictator in perpetuity”) and fears grew that he would later dissolve the senate in favour of an absolute tyranny. This led to several senators to plot his assassination. Fear and desperation led the conspirators to stab Caesar twenty three times, they later proclaimed “People of Rome, we are once again free!”

2058 years later, the bitterly cold tyranny of winter has gripped Toronto for too long. The freezing temperatures are no longer welcome mid-March, and a sense of fear and desperation is growing amongst the public.

March has never been my favourite month. Even as a child, unnecessary stress plagued me from all angles. It was always dance competition and music festival season, school seemed overwhelming while the weather was still non-compliant. Despite its downfalls, March has never been a stagnant month. Usually by the time April hits, I feel as though I’ve checked quite a few to-dos off my list.

This week has been particularly noteworthy, from celebrating amazing news with friends (engagements, grad school acceptance letter, and new jobs! Hip hip hooray!) to finally buying a bicycle. Perhaps March isn’t so bad after all?

Celebrating Mary’s acceptance into three of her top grad school picks, including John Hopkins University. This girl is nothing short of amazing!

My new wheels

Salad from Bolt Fresh Bar

Smoothies to the rescue!

Self-portrait

Voodoo Child is the best

Looking forward to this sensational Kiwi gig

Can I move in already?

Taxidermy

Learning how to spell

Throw way back

Only in Toronto

kitten & the bear

Torontonians soon will shake off the shackles of parkas, Sorels, and toques. They’ll embrace patios, sandals, and days on the Island. And we’ll proclaim, “people of Toronto, we are once again free!”

March 16, 2014
Pura Vida

Having lived away from Canada’s brutally cold winters for a few years, I had almost forgotten the necessity (I use that term loosely) of escaping to a warmer climate. If only for a few days, a spot a sun can do wonders for your mental health. My family doesn’t usually head south during the winter months; my parents preferred tormenting us as youngsters, with ski trips to the Rockies in -30 degree weather. I’m kidding, of course, but wind chill is sometimes more painful than sunburn. This year, however, they won a trip through Honda, and my sisters and I tagged along because, well, family vacations need not end simply because you’ve reached adulthood.

I’m a little late on uploading these photos from my recent trip to Costa Rica. Better late than never, right?

If you can’t get away for a few days, here are some of my other solutions to combat the winter chills:

1. Have a spa day

Come on, you deserve it! There are options abound for relaxing in Toronto. Or, if you’re pinching pennies, just grab a $2 face mask and paint your nails coral.

2. Try a Bikram yoga class

Yoga’s the perfect way to focus your energy and challenge yourself. Add a lil’ bit of heat, and bam, it’s a workout! You’ll feel sweaty, rejuvenated, and ready to take on your day.

3. Wrap yourself in a floor-length cardigan (ankle-length cardis are all the rage these days) and hit up your favourite café.

Extra points if they serve brunch and booze.

4. Gratitude.

There are people who can’t afford heating or a warm bowl of soup. Let’s appreciate the fact that we have warm homes to return to every night.

5. Enjoy the snow.

My Kiwi friend’s reaction to the snow in Saskatchewan was priceless, and made me appreciate Canadian winters if only for a second. Put on a toque and your thickest socks, and go sledding.

It’s now March, and I think we’re nearing the end of winter here in Toronto. Here’s hoping!

xoxo, Vanessa

March 10, 2014
Global Friends. Part II: TORONTO

Hi friends!

This is the second post in a three-part series.

I. Saskatchewan

After an eventful few days in Saskatchewan, Ashleigh’s journey continued on to Toronto; Canada’s largest city and economic hub, and where Nick and I currently reside. The polar vortex (read: your average Canadian winter) was in full effect, and Ash braved the -30 degree weather like a champ.

The trip included a stop to see the Niagara Falls, a must for any international visitor! I’ve been twice in the past two months, and the splendour of the falls continues to thrill me.

We also enjoyed lunch at one of Canada’s oldest pubs at Niagara-on-the-Lake. This picturesque town offers a multitude of vineyards and better dining options than touristy Niagara Falls.

Toronto is a big city, but luckily we had a solid week to show our international guest the sights of the Big Smoke. Ashleigh’s favourite part of the city was a toss-up between Kensington Market, where the Jewish community initially immigrated upon moving to Canada. She loved the colourful neighbourhood and vintage shopping. We also stopped for a tea and coffee break at Wanda’s Pie in the Sky.

She was also partial to Parkdale and Roncesvalles, two neighbourhoods that are in the process of gentrification. The result is an intriguing mix of old and new, where old Polish diners stand between trendy eateries, hip cafés, and boutique shopping. We did some damage at the locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops. If you haven’t tried a doughnut from Gloryhole (don’t let the outrageously offensive name deter you!), and a cappuccino from Cherry Bomb, you’re seriously missing out.

Toronto is a foodie’s dream with eclectic dining options for all palettes. We caught up for brunch with Mary, a fellow Torontonian who we met in New Zealand. We ventured to Dundas West (also on the brinks of gentrification) on one of the coldest days of the year for brunch at The Federal. The charming restaurant offers an excellent twist on the classic eggs benedict, the Eggs Federal, and bottomless coffee. It was the perfect way to start the morning.

I almost always fail to mention this when describing Ashleigh’s visit to Toronto, but she was fascinated by The PATH. The underground pedestrian mall was her saviour when leaving Union Station for my apartment. She even requested a photo or five:

Our favourite dinner was at La Carnita on College Street, a Mexican restaurant that pairs street art with street food. And let me tell ya, their street corn is my favourite thing on the menu. You need to try it! We finished off the night with drinks in the historic Distillery District and a drive to Cherry Street where you can see the city skyline from music venue, Sound Academy.

What are some of your must-see Toronto spots for international (and Canadian) tourists?

Let me know in the comments below!

Until next time,
Vanessa

February 3, 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
Toronto Concert Checklist

After living in Auckland, I didn’t think my live music experiences could get any better! Little did I know, Toronto’s also quite an amazing city for music. We’re having a music moment. I’ve been researching concerts for the past few hours, and OHEMGEE, there are some amazing bands venturing to the Big Smoke. These are the bands I am really dying to see:

Flume – September 5th
Rumour has it, Sydney boy, Harley Streten puts on quite the show. His electronic, dance beats are catchy and memorable. He’s certainly one to watch. I’m addicted to Holdin On.

Lorde – October 6th

From Auckland’s North Shore, Lorde (Ella Yelich-O’Connor) is only sixteen, but she’s taking New Zealand and the world by storm. Her album is due thi Mostly sold-out, her show at the Danforth Music Hall (fantastic venue) will have us yearning for more.

The Naked and Famous – October 14th

So, this concert is taking place on Canadian Thanksgiving, and I had initially planned on returning home to see my family. I’m now reconsidering what day I’ll fly home to Saskatchewan because I can’t miss a performance by The Naked and Famous (I’ve seen them three times in New Zealand…) even if they are playing at Sound Academy (Toronto’s worst venue). A few weeks ago, I posted this video of their newest track.

Stars – September 1st (FREE concert at Nathan Philips Square!)
Deerhunter – September 12th
CHVRCHES – September 15th
Serena Ryder – September 20th
Austra – September 27th
Two Door Cinema Club – October 15th
Cocorosie – October 15th
Noah and the Whale – October 19th
The Weeknd – October 20th
The Paper Kites – November 7th

So, who wants to join me on my Toronto concert frenzy?

August 28, 2013
Life Update and Fall Trends!

I’ve now been a stylist at Club Monaco for nearly two months, which has been a fantastic experience in itself. I’ve been obsessed with Club Monaco since its humble beginnings in the early 90s. My store, on Queen Street, was actually the very first Club Monaco to open in 1985.

I am also happy to report that I’ve recently taken on much more freelance work. I am now writing and editing for Nyeus Inc., a digital start-up that crafts websites and multi-media platforms for a variety of companies and organizations. I’m currently working with Dayle Haddon of WomenOne. I’m incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity to do what I love most, write.

I’m also becoming increasing excited for autumn, my favourite season. There are so many reasons to love fall, and I’ll be compiling a list of my favourite fall activities later today! But first, let’s talk fashion! Spending 25-30 hours a week at one of my favourite stores has enabled me to get a sense of what Toronto’s best-heeled will be wearing this year. Here’s a list of my must-have fall trends (mostly from the Club Monaco collection, of course!) So, without further ado…

1. Faux fur shrugs.

Yes, I said it. I am obsessed with this look because it has just enough volume and texture to an pizzazz otherwise bland outfit. It’ll also take you into the colder months of October and November before we all bust out our Canada Goose/knee-length down jackets here in the Great White North.

2. Neoprene dresses.

A dress or a wetsuit? You either love it or hate and believe me, these have been a point of controversy at Club Monaco Queen Street. But I am a huge fan of this material. For one, it’s high quality, have you ever bought a cheap wetsuit? I lived in the South Pacific and my surfer friends spent a pretty penny on their wetsuits. The shape of the Autumn Dress adds shape to even the boyish of figures. Win!

3. Leather detailing

As they say, the design is in the details. I’m a huge fan of leather, as it adds luxury to simple wardrobe staples like cotton shirts and crewneck sweaters. Club Monaco has incorporated real leather into many of their skirts, dresses, pants and shirts this season, making dressing up a lot more fun! My favourite pieces are the Christine skirt (pictured above), the Janice top, the Cecilia dress (in black), the Witherbee dress, the Gabi varsity jacket and the Kaylan jacket (pictured below in white).

4. Quilted jackets

I predict that quilted jackets (especially when roughened up with a bit of leather detailing) will be all the rage this fall. I have the above coat in navy and I’m in love! I think pairing navy with black is an absolute DO this season, and will provide much-needed versatility in all of our wardrobes.

What are you most looking forward to wearing this fall?

xoxo, Vanessa

August 26, 2013
Urban vs. Suburban

I recently came across this article in which Toronto Life chats with former urbanites who now reside in the suburbs. Having grown up in a smaller community of 20,000, I escaped for the bright lights of the city when I moved to Auckland (roughly the size of Calgary, Alberta) at the age of twenty. Since then, I’ve fully immersed myself in my urban playground of Toronto. While there’s something to be said about the idyllic vastness that is a rural environment, I won’t be trading in my shoe-box apartment for greener (and much more spacious) pastures anytime soon!

Here’s what I love about city life:

1. New Urbanism, which is a design movement, promotes walkable neighbourhoods and town centres. Having places to meet friends where you aren’t being sold anything is an amazing feeling.

2. Public transport is a godsend. Save yourself both time and money by hopping on the TTC.

3. Cultural cuisine. Feel like dim sum in Chinatown with gelato for dessert in Little Italy to follow? It’s entirely possible in Toronto.

4. Retail therapy for all budgets. Feeling spendy? Be sure to visit Holt Renfrew and the Mink Mile for some of Canada’s best shopping. However, if you’re strapped for cash or prefer something vintage, I highly recommend Kensington Market, where I just recently purchased a $1 blouse. Toronto has something to suit all budgets, tastes and styles.

5. A thriving social life. Whatever your interests, there’s a club for that.

6. Free events. Save your pennies, check out TIFF in the Park, stop in for a free yoga class downtown or engage in intellectual discussion at one of U of T’s renown lecture series.

7. Parks and green space. Toronto is a smog-filled concrete jungle, you say? I beg to differ. There are at least three parks within a 10-mile radius of my apartment. I do not have to drive anywhere to be one with nature.

8. Entertainment. And I don’t mean in the traditional sense of the word, although there’s plenty of that too. Just walk east or west on Queen Street, and you’ll see what I’m talking about. Urbanites are fascinating to observe.

What’s your take on the Toronto Life article? Are you a city person or do you prefer the spaciousness of the ‘burbs? Alternately, do you like the serenity of a rural, more removed community? Weigh in here!

August 16, 2013