A Note From Jo:

Thanks a million!

While not a British tradition, I have come to fully embrace the festivities of Thanksgiving.  From the turkey with all the trimmings, to all things truly Americana: sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie and cranberry relish, I love it all. 

And even though, in the beginning I found it strange to be eating the equivalent of my traditional Christmas dinner in November, I have come to love the preparations for the BIG DAY, when my American family and friends sit together for a huge meal, (my father-in-law wondering if this is the year I'll remember the dressing);  a long walk with the dogs; football on TV and the obligatory long nap....bliss.

So, in the spirit of true thankfulness I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank a few of my nearest and dearest:

Thanks to my wonderful team at the English Rose Tea Room.  As I write, I am sitting in our cozy cabin in Prescott, enjoying the pines and the chill of a brisk November morning...and I couldn't be here if it wasn't for the support and dedication of those that keep the Tea Room doors open all year.

Thanks to my wonderful husband, who puts up with all my English-isms, my midnight worries about life, lets me keep 3 noisy dogs and laughs at all my jokes.

Thanks to my beautiful step-daughters who have proven to be such friends and wonderful mothers to their own daughters...and thanks for eating all my turkey dinners!

Thanks to my parents and my family back in England, I miss you very much but love sharing my American life with you...and Mum, thanks for teaching me how to cook!

Thanks to all my wonderful friends who have supported me over the years and continue to be there for me, and for pretending to like tea!

And thanks to all my customers.  The Tea Room has been here for nearly 9 years, and it is only because you keep coming back.  Thank you, thank you for your patronage and support.

So, kick back and enjoy the upcoming holiday, spend time with the ones you love and give thanks for all the blessings we have been given.

A very "Happy Thanksgiving" to you and your family.

Jo

PS...oh yes, and WOOOHOOOO  to Wills & Kate!! Thank you for all the wonderful PR I hope to get now that you have finally decided to tie the knot!!