1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 1/2 c. warm water
5 to 6 c. flour
2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. Amish friendship starter

Dissolve 1 package yeast in warm water. Stir in 2 1/2 cup flour, with the salt, sugar and the starter. Combine 2 1/2 cups flour and the baking soda; stir into starter mixture. Stir in as much of 1/2 to 1 cup flour as you can mix with a spoon. On a lightly floured surface, knead in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (6 to 8 minutes). Shape into a ball in a greased bowl; turn over once. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (1 to 1 1/2 hours). Punch down, divide in half. Cover; let rest 10 minutes. Shape each half into a 6 inch round or a 9 x 4 inch loaf on a greased baking sheet. With a sharp knife make criss cross slashes on top. Cover; let rise until almost double (about 1 hour). Bake at 400 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Cool.