1 c. flour
1 c. milk
1/2 c. sugar
1 env. active dry yeast (opt.)

Combine ingredients in a glass bowl or crock. Leave on counter and cover loosely. It may take three to four days to begin to ferment. When bubbles start forming, proceed as follows:

DAY 1: Place starter in a large glass bowl or crock (don't use metal) and, using a wooden or plastic spoon (don't use metal), add 1 cup each flour, sugar and milk and stir until well blended. Cover loosely and place on counter. Do not refrigerate.

DAYS 2, 3 AND 4: Stir each day.

DAY 5: Add 1 cup each flour, sugar and milk as in Day 1.

DAYS 6, 7, 8 AND 9: Stir each day.

DAY 10: Take out three separate cups, reserve one of them for yourself and give away the other two cups to each of two friends. Proceed with cake recipe using remaining starter batter, that which remains after the three cups have been removed.

NOTE: Reserved starter may be frozen at this point. Bring to room temperature before beginning day by day steps.