Day One: To make your own starter from scratch, mix 1 cup each of flour, sugar and milk in a bowl. Cover lightly.

Day two: Relax.

Day three: Mixture is bubbling - please stir.

Day four: Mixture is still bubbling - please stir again.,

Day five: Add 1 cup each of flour, sugar and milk. Stir well.

Day six: Relax.

Day seven: Mixture is bubbling - please stir.

Day eight: Mixture is still bubbling - please stir again.

Day nine: Yup, needs to be stirred one last time.

Day ten: Add 1 cup each of flour, sugar and milk. Stir well.

To finish the cake: Take out 3 cups of starter and put 1 cup into each of three small containers. Add a bright bowl or wrap in colored cellophane. Give to three friends with a set of these entire instructions (your friends should begin with Day two) and include a personal note of friendship.

Add the following to your portion of remaining batter: 3 eggs 2 c. flour 1 c. sugar 2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. nutmeg (optional) 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 2 tsp. baking powder 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Stir well, but do not use electric mixer. For variety, add desired amount of one or more of the following ingredients: apples, nuts, raisins, dates, chocolate chips, coconut or drained fruit cocktail or up to 4 bananas (overripe). Bake in floured and greased bundt pan at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes. Cook on a rack for about an hour. Turn over onto serving plate. Optional: Add frosting or sprinkle with powdered sugar. Enjoy.