Sometimes, you can forget the wonder of everyday life when you’re busy and moving and going, going all the time. That nearly happened here.
About two years ago, I decided I would do my utmost to stop buying bread for my kids. They eat sandwiches every day for lunch and I just couldn’t get over the amount of crap on the labels on even the healthiest of breads. So I adopted my sister’s bread maker and changed the way we ate. I loved that machine. I even wrote about cheating on my man because of bread. The breadmaker was my gateway to scratch bread and now I even have my own recipe I use that pleases the whole clan (this week).
It’s gotten so commonplace, that making bread has become just another chore. In my more defiant weeks, I buy a store bought loaf and swear I’ll never knead another pile of dough for as long as I live. But then other days, I relish the near meditative state that can come from the kneading and rolling. I take the time to slow down and marvel at the fascinating chemistry at work when the yeast foams or the tiny blob of dough rises into a genuine loaf. On good days, bread is a metaphor for life. I have to slow down. I have to be patient and most of all, I have to trust the process, even if the current evidence suggests failure, time and faith will yield exactly what I need to be nourished and full.
That is wonder.
I have been intimidated to bake bread. I just might try this.
You? Intimidated in the kitchen? I can’t believe it!
I learned to make bread last year and it is one of those things that I wonder why I didn’t learn to do it sooner. I love it. And while I don’t make it all the time, I make it enough that my kids like it better than store-bought. That’s at least something!
That is more than something. That is impressive any time you make it. And I agree, it is easier than I ever imagined so I too kick myself when I don’t do it more often.
I love making bread. I find it relaxing, and it fills the house with a smell that’s to die for. Honestly I didn’t start doing it because of the crap in store bread, but I guess that’s a fringe benefit. I mostly just love the taste – and the process.
Yes, the smell! I love it too but it’s like the gym or running, I have to remind myself that I love it when I’m avoiding getting started.
Ah, how right you are. There is something extremely peaceful about the scents and kneading and pride in baking your own bread. I think I may do that today.
I love your gallery!
Do it!Even if the bread stinks (which many of mine have) the act of making it is worth it.