In early December, without snow in sight, our family adorned our Saskatoon home with holiday lights. Despite the absence of the wintry white blanket, I couldn’t help but admire our house once again. I firmly believe in the saying, “Home is where the heart is.” After residing in Canada for three years, it feels like we have finally found our place to call home.
When we first entered the house during our house-hunting journey, my husband, teenager, and I were captivated by the abundance of windows. Natural light flooded every room from all angles, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Even the basement was bathed in sunlight!
“My child exclaimed, ‘Ma, this feels like home,'” bringing a smile to my face that I hadn’t seen in a while. This was followed by the typical teenage humor, as my child remarked, “And not a dentist’s office!” in reference to the numerous other houses we had viewed.
Our new home exuded simplicity and coziness, with a graceful front lawn and a backyard adorned with swaying poplar trees. The standout feature was undoubtedly the windows. It wasn’t extravagant, nor was it small; it was just the perfect size. It was truly love at first sight.
Reflecting on my childhood memories of home while surrounded by Christmas lights in our backyard, I was transported back to my childhood home in India. It had a similar expansive outdoor space with a jasmine bush in the front lawn and a kitchen garden in the backyard. Recreating these memories with my family filled me with deep gratitude.
Leaving our previous home in India to move to Saskatoon was a challenging transition, especially given the impermanence that comes with renting. Our rental apartment felt impersonal, with thin walls and basic furnishings. However, amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, we decided to purchase a house in September, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.
Our new home in Saskatoon has played a vital role in helping us settle in. As we fill the shelves with souvenirs and infuse the rooms with our laughter and love, we are creating a space that reflects our identity. This house will witness new memories, milestones, and the growth of roots in a once unfamiliar place that now feels like home.
Saskatoon has transformed from a mere location on the map to a beacon of hope for our family. It has taught us that home is not just where you come from but where you choose to be.