Anusuya Datta, a writer and journalist residing in Saskatoon, shares a personal account of the journey to find a place to call home in Canada. Despite the absence of snow during the early December holiday lights setup, Anusuya couldn’t help but admire the charm of their new house. Reflecting on the belief that “Home is where the heart is,” after three years in Canada, they finally felt a sense of belonging.
The first visit to the house left a lasting impression on Anusuya, her husband, and their teenager, as they were captivated by the abundance of sunlight streaming in through the numerous windows. The warmth and inviting ambiance of the house, including the basement, resonated with them instantly. The simplicity and coziness of the house, complemented by a front lawn and a backyard with swaying poplar trees, felt just right – not too big, not too small, but perfect.
Anusuya reminisces about her childhood home in India, with its lush greenery, jasmine bush, and sunflower plants, which inspired a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to recreate similar cherished memories with her family. The transition from their previous home in Delhi to Saskatoon was marked by uncertainty, leaving behind a space filled with memories and a sense of ownership that provided a canvas for their dreams.
The impermanence of renting in Saskatoon was unsettling, with the rental apartment feeling impersonal and lacking the warmth of a true home. The challenges of moving during the COVID-19 pandemic added to the sense of impermanence until they found solace in purchasing their current home in September. Their new house in Saskatoon symbolizes a fresh start, where they can build new memories, celebrate milestones, and truly make it their own.
The journey to find a place to call home in Canada has transformed Saskatoon from a mere location on the map to a beacon of hope for Anusuya and her family. It has taught them that home is not just a place of origin but a conscious choice to create a sense of belonging and stability.
