Coming from the largest urban centre in the country, I wasn't sure what life in rural Saskatchewan would be like.

I have been approached by many locals since arriving this past summer to Humboldt and area from Toronto. I will often be asked,

"What's it like, coming from the big city to small-town Saskatchewan?"

My response to that question is very simple: "It's wonderful."

I'll then take my simplistic response, and elaborate.  One of the biggest differences between my life there compared to here in Humboldt, is the sense of community that surrounds us.

There's a line from the mid-90's movie Father of the Bride (part 2), that my dad and are are fond of, and it comes to mind when I'm asked about life in Humboldt:

"It's a place where people still smile at each other."

The people here are what make Humboldt and area so wonderful. A friendly wave from a farmer passing me on the grid road. A co-worker who instantly became a great friend. A stranger saying hello walking down Main to the bank. Postal workers wearing a warm smile on their faces, mid-December. 

Sometimes I get nostalgic and long for the energy of a busy cafe in Mid-town, but then I remember just how pleasant life is here. I am truly blown away on a regular basis by all the love and caring found in the souls of many residents here.

The people are warm and welcoming.

They care.

They give. 

They smile.

Toronto will always be my home town, but Saskatchewan is what I now call home.