Foreword (2010)

The Ivy Tea Room was a dream that became a reality through many inspirations. The stories in this book talk about many of them. My hope is that, while enjoying the recipes and the many stories, you will understand how important it was to have my family support for this adventure. I would like to thank my husband who had the patience of a saint for my good days and my not so good days. His ability to stay calm was pinnacle to the success of running a small business. Although the family sacrifices were many, the memories will last a lifetime.

Not only did the family experience the ups and downs of operating a small business, but they also came to appreciate quality food offered at reasonable prices. They learned the balance between good service and being a good customer. There were also unexpected experiences such as coming face to face with ghosts.

Never did I think I would have the opportunity to own a large, Victorian home complete with tearoom. To also have ghosts was a childhood question answered. Fortunately, the visits were harmless and in most cases, they were entertaining. I had to incorporate the ghost stories into this recipe book as they were a huge part of the tearoom atmosphere.

The ghosts weren't the only characters that played a role in making the tearoom interesting. Our many customers came in a variety of temperaments and qualities. Although all of our customers have contributed to the learning experience I have shared, only a few of these stories are captured in these pages.

Now; with the teapot stored in our barn, it seems even more important than ever to share the memories, life lessons, and the recipes that kept our customers coming back. Who knows, maybe someday there will be new owners of this magnificent home who will realize their dreams and also write about them. Maybe someone will read this book and decide to open a tearoom? If so, I wish them all the luck that a dream can bring.

Tamara Pasley