If you are viewing this, then thank you for visiting my website, The Heart of Jo Ann’s Kitchen. Many years ago (too many to mention) I began putting my recipes online for friends. I created a website with the same name when the Internet was very young. I had a dot matrix printer, simple fonts and even simpler graphics (or non-existent graphics!) 

I had many friends who would visit my site when they were getting ready to cook dinner. I have always specialized in creating from the pantry, and “making do” with what is in the refrigerator.  So, with a well-stocked spice cabinet, pantry, and refrigerator, I could whip up a dinner that was satisfying.

Many of my recipes were created on the spot, some came from good friends and family, and some from magazines and clippings out of newspapers. Yes, I said newspapers! I tried hard to share an anecdotal story with background, and reasons for creating the recipe, or about the friend who shared it. 

Good food and shared recipes create a bond between cook and creator. I love building relationships, so sharing my heart and kitchen through the recipes here is a way of reaching out to new friends, and encouraging old ones. 

Hospitality and food are such a part of my DNA.  On these pages, I hope to inspire you to create a warm atmosphere for your family, and for those in need. Practice hospitality whenever and wherever you can, but especially for your own family. The rewards will be eternal.