Spring is in full bloom in Mendocino. The weather is mild, rain and fog are rare. It's not as crowded as the summer.

This newsletter will highlight all the upcoming events and festivals in and around Mendocino during the next few months.

If you need extra enticement to visit and get away for a few days, April is pet month at Abigail's. We will waive all pet fees for April stays at Abigail's and our vacation rentals.

First, two personal notes. On March 8th we welcomed our first grandchild, Eliot Reed Strom. He was born in Zurich where his Dad is working this year. We will be visiting later this month. He is, of course, beautiful and perfect in every way. Secondly, I would like to welcome Dixia Cartier to our innkeeping family. Dixia is from France and she met Susan when both were taking an EMT class together. (They both passed.) Dixia brings new energy and ideas to our inn. She also speaks Spanish and Italian.

APRIL SPECIALS

April is the last month to take advantage of our winter and procrastinators specials. Since pets are free, it is also the perfect time to book a Pooches Paradise Special at Abigail's. Details are at www.WhitegateInn.com.

FILM FESTIVAL - The second annual Mendocino Film Festival will be held May 17 through May 20th at various venues in Mendocino and Little River. The first year was a rousing success with over 60 independent films and documentaries shown. The momentum is building. Special guests will be Danny Glover and Albert Maysles. More information can be found at www.MendocinoFilmFestival.org.

PINOT FESTIVAL - The famous Mendocino Pinot Festival is scheduled for the same weekend as the Film Festival. The main event will be May 20th under the big tent in Philo, about 45 minutes away. Over 50 local Pinots will be showcased along with more food that you can consume. Tickets and more information can be found at www.AVWines.com. This event always sells out so please book early.

WINE BY THE SEA - Fantastic Mendocino wines, the rich bounty of Mendocino foods and world class entertainment will be featured at the first ever WINE BY THE SEA event scheduled for June 22 and 23. Details can be found at www.MendoWine.com. This event will be a blow out!

MENDOCINO MUSIC FESTIVAL - Our final featured event is the world famous MENDOCINO MUSIC FESTIVAL. Held this year from July 10 - 21st, it will once again be located under its signature tent on the Mendocino Headlands. As eclectic as we are, this event has been the mainstay of our summers here for over 25 years. It features orchestral, chamber, opera, jazz, big band and just plain fun. For more information and tickets please go to www.MendocinoMusic.com.

And last but not least, be sure to check out www.MendocinoFun.com for things to do when you come visit us on the coast. We hope to see you soon!