2 pkgs. dry yeast, dissolved in 3/4 c. warm water (not hot) with sugar as directed on package
2 c. lukewarm water
3 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. salt
3 tbsp. shortening
8 c. all purpose or bread flour
Melted butter

Dissolve yeast. Add milk, sugar, salt, shortening and half the flour; mix until smooth. Mix in the rest of the flour until dough is easy to handle. Knead on floured surface until smooth, 10 minutes should do it. Put in greased bowl, cover with dish towel, and let it rise about an hour, until double. Divide dough in half, shape into loaves, place in greased loaf pans, brush with butter, and let rise another hour. Bake at 425 degrees about 25 to 30 minutes, until brown. To test for doneness, tap to see if they sound hollow. Brush with butter if you like. Yield: 2 loaves.

"Baking bread is one of the ways I relax. I like kneading it, and I love the smell of it, the way it fills the house and makes your mouth water."