Jonesy's Journey: Morning Magic

By Mark Jones

“Service isn’t just what you do ... it’s how you make people feel while you’re doing it.”
 
Breakfast at the Raspberry Patch in Sanford is always a treat but even more so when it’s shared with my wife Barb, my sister Kathy, and her partner Griff — and made memorable by Emily’s exceptional service.

We arrived around 10:30 to find a line out the door. Once seated, Emily greeted us with the biggest smile and an energy that instantly lifted the room.
 
“It’s so great to see you all!” she said. My sister remarked, “This place is hopping ... you must be exhausted trying to keep up.” Emily just laughed. “Oh no, I love this. I don’t even know what time it is, and it doesn’t matter.”

As we watched her move from table to table, that same enthusiasm and care never wavered. I realized this is what it looks like to truly love your job: to take pride in serving others and to turn a simple breakfast into a genuine experience.
 
The food at Mel’s is always excellent, but it’s this kind of service that keeps people coming back to any business, sharing their stories and becoming loyal fans.

Mel’s and Emily — what a great combination.