Great advice PJ! Just this week I had some experience on your last question "How long will dried starter stay good?". About 10-12 years ago I got a great sourdough starter going, and as insurance I dried some of it just as you describe above. (I dry mine overnight in the oven with the light on. Works great!) About 2 years ago I decided to put away my starter and work on other breads, but recently wanted to revive it. I went to my dried stock from 2006 (9 years old!). I was happy to see that I had lots of bubbles in my starter within 24 hours, and I easily had 4 cups of a vibrant, doubling starter within 3 days!! Can't wait to make my first sourdough loaf with it this weekend!!

• Reply