It was one of those phone calls, that you know the minute you pick up and hear the voice on the other end it’s not good news. So it was for me last week, with my Mom back in the hospital with a small stroke, and now to rehab. Never knew I could make plane and car reservations that fast. It was a long weekend in Parma Community General Hospital, which meant two things. Making sure Mom was getting the best care, and putting a smile on her face with good food. I have to say I was impressed with what Food Services brought. Salmon, roast turkey, pancakes, waffles. That really put a smile on Mom’s face, as did the cheesecake on the menu one evening, and the special goodies we smuggled in (don’t tell!).  For me, chai lattes aplenty with one of those a much needed 30 minute break with my friend Len at a Starbucks down the road. Thanks Len, I needed that. Add to that, a visit to the pretty decent salad bar in the hospital cafeteria for lunches, then and a visit to a restaurant that’s evolved from its historic roots and that gave me many fond memories.

   Pizzeria Cerino’s is one very nice place to bring the family, friends or the perfect place for date night. Growing up, it was always Carrie Cerino’s for great meals, for those special occasions and wonderful cakes. Now they’ve opened Pizzeria Cerino’s on Broadview Road, in Broadview Heights, not too far my sister’s house. I thoroughly enjoyed my Whole Wheat Chicken Sorrento, made with whole wheat penne pasta. There was more than enough for a little go box, which covered lunch the next day. And their focaccia bread? Let’s just say between myself, Tricia and her husband Sal, two bread baskets have nothing but crumbs in them. Their pizza is also a very fond memory from a previous visit, and it was a nice escape for the evening.

   But when it comes to my sister’s family and comfort food, Sunday night Taco Night is the best! When we need our family and the simple pleasures that make us feel a little better in times of such stress, you just can’t beat sitting at the table with my nephews and making a delightful mess of tacos. I miss that tremendously when I’m back here.  It’s going to be a long road but it something as simple as say a homemade cookie brings back the kind of memories Mom needs, its fine with me. It’s only a plane ride away.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

You don't choose your family.  They are God's gift to you, as you are to them.  ~Desmond Tutu