Anusuya Datta, a writer and journalist from Saskatoon, shares her personal journey of finding a new home that resonates with her heart. Despite the absence of snow during the holiday season, the sight of her house adorned with lights filled her with joy. After three years in Canada, Anusuya feels she has finally discovered a place she can truly call home.
Upon entering the house for the first time with her husband and teenager, they were captivated by the abundance of sunlight streaming in through numerous windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in every room, even the basement. This feeling of home was affirmed when her child expressed the sentiment, “Ma, this feels like home,” marking a moment of genuine happiness.
The simplicity and coziness of the house, along with its graceful front lawn and backyard adorned with swaying poplar trees, captured Anusuya’s heart. The beauty of the house lay in its modesty and charm, striking a perfect balance that resonated deeply with her.
Reflecting on her childhood memories of her home in India, Anusuya found similarities in the natural surroundings of her new home in Saskatoon, evoking nostalgia and a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to create similar cherished memories with her family. The journey from Delhi to Saskatoon was a roller-coaster ride of uncertainty, leaving behind a home filled with stories and emotions.
The impermanence of renting in Saskatoon was a challenging transition, with the rental apartment feeling impersonal and temporary. The sense of impermanence was heightened amid the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the decision to purchase a house in September. With the new home in Saskatoon, Anusuya sees more than just bricks and mortar; she envisions a new chapter unfolding in their lives, filled with personal touches and the promise of building lasting memories.
The house has played a crucial role in helping the family feel settled and establish roots in a place that was once unfamiliar. Saskatoon has transformed from a mere location on the map to a beacon of hope, teaching them that home is not just a place of origin but a conscious choice to create a sense of belonging.