Day of the Dead

Unfortunately we had to cancel our anticipated day of the dead dinner. We just didn't have enough time to adequately plan because we weren't sure how many people were attending.
Our alter is beautiful though. Marrissa used some of her vibrant left over paints and it is colorful yet tasteful. Tomorrow we are going to spice it up with all sorts of traditional decorations. There is an internal debate about having a cross on top however.

It is hot, for us, today. I'm walking around in a T shirt. This time of year I usually wear two layers.

Cooper, our newest water dog, went to the third week of his latest training class this morning. He is still very easily distracted but knows all his commands. He had his longest stay today, 75 seconds. We are supposed to work towards 20 minutes. Good luck to us. It might work if he falls asleep. We are also supposed to teach him how to open and close doors, turn on light switches, shake hands and many other tricks. Some don't seem to be beneficial.

The Economy Specials

The last two weeks have been insane for the economy and stock market. It seems when the US sneezes the rest of the world gets a runny nose at least. It brings home the reality of the global economy.

There is some good news though. Oil has dropped percipitiously in the past three weeks. It has not been totally translated to the pumps but there is always a lag. When fuel decreases all the products made from oil also benefit; everyone from the airlines to plastic manufacturers. These benefits will take longer to filter down to us average consumers but it will happen. I heard on NPR today that the cost of shipping goods by sea has dropped due the lack of demand and the lower cost of fuel. That too should make goods cheaper for everyone.

The Europeans have been keeping the California tourist economy floating because the euro, pound and Swiss franc were flying high compared to the dollar. But now the Europeans are suffering too so it remains to be seen what winter will bring.

To encourage guests from everywhere we created our best specials yet, 50% of during the week and 25% off on weekends. That means there are $99 rooms at the Whitegate and at Abigails. The reception has been great so far.

The election appears to be settled though there is always a chance of an October surprise to shake things up. The problem for the new guy will be expectations. He will be expected to make major changes and that will be virtually impossible given this economic climate. Many of the promises made during the campaign will just be hopeless to implement until things smooth out which may take a couple of years. It will be interesting to see what priorities are established.

Day of the Dead dinner

For the first time ever, we are excited to announce we are serving a special authentic Day of the Dead dinner on Sat. Nov. 1st. Our Hispanic staff will be cooking specialties for the holiday. It will be a buffet dinner from 6 to 8 PM. The price is $25 for inn guests and $30 for outsiders. We have limited availability so book early.
Our Day of the Dead alter will be installed near our front door shortly. We tried to be as authentic as possible and we promise to make it as showy as possible. Marrissa, our in house flower arranger, is painting it and we are collecting photos of the departed as well as flowers and produce of the season. Come on by and take a look. I'll probably have pictures on the web site.