The day you receive Herman starter. Do nothing. Store at room temperature in loosely covered bowl. It will rise.

1 c. sugar
1 c. flour
1 c. milk

Stir.

Add 1 cup sugar, 1 cup flour, and 1 cup milk. Stir. Pour 1 cup batter each into 3 containers to give to friends (along with instructions, or keep one for yourself and give away two.)

To remaining 1 cup batter add:

2/3 c. vegetable oil
3 eggs
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

Mix by hand until smooth. Pour into 2 well-greased and sugared loaf pans. Bake about 40 minutes at 350 degrees (check at 30-35 minutes). Test with toothpick (if it comes out dry the bread is done). Cool 10 minutes before removing from pan.

Variations: Add 1 cup nuts and/or fruit such as chopped banana, apple or raisins to each loaf. Makes 2 loaves. Freezes well.