Xitaka: A Dream Retreat

In the heart of Idaho's tranquil countryside, nestled between towering pines and rolling hills, lay a serene haven I affectionately called Xitaka. This retreat, a rustic wooden cabin with a red roof and a stone chimney, was more than a home; it was a sanctuary. A place where dreams long nurtured finally took root, where nature’s rhythm became my own, and where every day was a celebration of life, memory, and harmony.

The Morning Symphony of Nature

Each morning, the sun would rise over the valley, casting golden light across the garden that brimmed with cabbages, tomatoes, and a chorus of life. Ducks, chickens, and geese went about their morning routines, moving in unison with the melodies of the wild birds overhead. The gentle babble of a nearby stream provided the soundtrack, its waters tracing a path just beyond the cabin’s doorstep, inviting contemplation and peace.

For a man who had known the struggles of life, first in Angola and later in the United States, Xitaka was a dream realized—a place to find serenity, to reflect on a life lived across continents, and to embrace the simple joys of living in harmony with the land.

Guardians and Companions

At the heart of Xitaka were the animals that had become my constant companions. Hera and Pandora, two playful pygmy goats, roamed freely, joined by their trusted friend, a spirited black Nigerian goat named Aries. Their bleats and gentle nudges became a part of my morning routine, their presence a reminder of the beauty of shared space with creatures who lived simply, purely.

Yet, the true guardians of this retreat were my loyal dogs—Loki and Thor, two majestic white huskies with eyes as piercing as the sky, and Xena, my faithful border collie. With their watchful presence, Xitaka was more than just a peaceful hideaway; it was a fortress of love and protection. Loki and Thor, ever full of energy, raced along the stream, their snowy fur gleaming in the sunlight, while Xena, ever the diligent protector, kept a watchful eye on everything, making sure the harmony of our retreat remained unbroken.

The Rituals of Peace

Life at Xitaka had its rhythms, gentle and fulfilling. Every morning, as the soft rays of the sun warmed the porch, I would step outside, greeted by the affectionate nudges of my loyal companions. We shared quiet moments, me tending to the garden or mending the wooden fence, and they standing guard, ensuring the peace of Xitaka was never disturbed.

These daily rituals—feeding the animals, harvesting the vegetables, and simply basking in the silence of the landscape—became sacred to me. They were moments of reflection, grounding me in the present while allowing me to connect with memories of the past.

I often thought of my journey to this place: from the bustling streets of Santa Comba in Angola, to the challenges and opportunities of life in the United States. Xitaka was the culmination of those experiences—a physical manifestation of dreams shaped by resilience, passion, and a deep connection to nature.

Evenings of Reflection and Gratitude

As the day faded into evening, the golden glow of the setting sun would bathe the valley in hues of pink and orange. The goats would nestle near the stream, content and at peace, while the chickens and ducks sought out cozy spots to roost. And there, on the porch, I would sit with my huskies, Loki and Thor, and Xena by my side, the sound of the flowing stream a comforting presence in the distance.

These evenings were magical, filled with stories, both real and imagined, of adventure, love, and the dreams that had brought me to Xitaka. Under the vast starlit sky, I often reflected on the journey, on the lessons learned, and on the gratitude I felt for this retreat, this life.

Discovering the Chronicles of Xitaka

One warm afternoon, as I was tending the garden, I stumbled upon something that seemed almost too perfect—a worn, mud-covered book partially hidden near the stream. The cover, though faded, revealed its title: The Chronicles of Xitaka. With a smile of curiosity, I brought it back to the porch, settled down with Loki, Thor, and Xena, and began to read.

The story within told of a legendary guardian spirit, Leão, who watched over the valley, ensuring its peace and prosperity. This guardian, much like my own huskies and border collie, was a protector of balance, ensuring that the harmony between the animals and the land remained intact. It was said that Leão’s spirit still lingered in the valley, watching over those who cherished Xitaka and all it represented.

Inspired by the tale, I dedicated a special corner of the garden to Leão. There, vibrant flowers bloomed, and a small wooden statue stood as a tribute to the spirit that had safeguarded the land long before I called it home. This became my sacred space—a place for quiet reflection and gratitude for the blessings of Xitaka.

Seasons of Transformation

As the seasons shifted, so did the rhythms of life at Xitaka. Spring brought a riot of color, with wildflowers bursting from every corner of the valley. The animals, sensing the renewal, were playful and lively, their antics a source of endless laughter. Summer’s warmth brought long days by the stream, where the cool water offered respite from the heat. The garden, rich with fruits and vegetables, provided more than enough to share with friends who visited, drawn to the magic of this retreat.

Autumn, with its crisp air and golden leaves, was a time of preparation. Loki and Thor loved to chase the falling leaves, while Xena, ever the diligent protector, watched over the garden. As winter approached, the cabin’s chimney would puff gentle streams of smoke, and inside, stories were shared around the fire, plans for the future discussed in the warmth of the hearth.

Winter transformed Xitaka into a snowy wonderland, the valley blanketed in white. Loki and Thor reveled in the snow, their thick coats a perfect defense against the cold, while Xena kept closer to the cabin, ever watchful of the goats and chickens. Inside, the warmth of the fire and the scent of homemade bread filled the air, a reminder of the simple pleasures this life offered.

A Dream Fulfilled

On a particularly peaceful winter evening, with Loki, Thor, and Xena curled up by the fire, I found myself reflecting on the journey that had brought me here. Xitaka had once been a dream—a vision of a life filled with peace, love, and connection to nature. Now, it was my reality, a testament to the power of holding onto dreams even through the challenges of life.

From my days in Angola, working in my father’s shop, to the memories of learning to ride a bicycle on borrowed wheels, my life had been a journey of resilience, of finding peace amidst change. Xitaka was the culmination of that journey, a place where memories, dreams, and the love of nature intertwined.

Conclusion: Living the Legend

Each day at Xitaka is a new chapter in the ongoing story of life, love, and fulfillment. The legend of Leão, once a distant tale, now lives on in the heart of this valley and in the spirit of its inhabitants—Loki, Thor, Xena, Hera, Pandora, Aries, and me. Together, we continue to write the story, one day at a time, in this magical place that I call home.

The End