Like Jamie, I always make a small sample loaf. My mother started this tradition so my brother and I could have some cake right away when she baked. She would bake one tiny cake in repurposed tuna fish can turned cake pan. She would even frost and decorate it. It is one of my sweetest childhood memories. In that tradition when I bake bread, I always make a baby loaf to be eaten immediately. Never deny yourself or your loved ones warm delicious bread right out of the oven. There is nothing like it. I don't want sad family or sad bread! And I absolutely loved, Donna Jo's Grandmother advice. "It makes the bread sad." Grandmothers have way of saying things so you remember forever.

• Reply