Anusuya Datta, a writer and journalist located in Saskatoon, shares her experience of decorating her house with holiday lights in early December when there was no snow. Despite the absence of snowy weather, Anusuya couldn’t help but admire her house once again.
Anusuya believes in the saying, “Home is where the heart is.” After residing in Canada for three years, they feel they have finally discovered a place they can truly call home.
Upon entering the house for the first time during their house hunt, Anusuya, her husband, and their teenager were captivated by the abundant windows that allowed sunlight to flood into every room, even the basement.
Their child expressed, “Ma, this feels like home,” a sentiment that had been missing for a while. The teenager humorously remarked on the difference from visiting various other potential houses that felt like dentist’s offices.
Anusuya describes their new house as simple, cozy, and perfectly sized, with a front lawn and a backyard adorned with swaying poplar trees. The abundance of windows added to the charm of the house, making it love at first sight.
Reflecting on childhood memories from India, Anusuya reminisces about a similar expansive space with nature like their current backyard filled with Christmas lights, evoking nostalgia and gratitude for the chance to create similar cherished moments with her family.
The transition from their beloved home in India to a rental in Saskatoon brought feelings of impermanence, with the rented apartment lacking the personal touch and warmth they longed for. The coldness seeping in, thin walls, and cautiousness about personalizing the space highlighted the temporary nature of their living situation.
Amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, the decision to purchase a house in September marked a significant step towards establishing roots and a sense of permanence in Saskatoon. The new home symbolizes a fresh chapter filled with personalization, memories, and the promise of growth and stability for their family.
Saskatoon has transformed from a mere location to a beacon of hope, teaching Anusuya’s family that home is not just a birthplace but a conscious choice of where to belong and thrive.
