Why would anyone hoard recipes?

All of my life I've been on a quest to find that one thing I could really excell in. I longed to do something creative and artistic. I tried drawing, pot throwing, painting. I was ready to dispair until I discovered that I was a pretty good baker. Now I'm obsessed with creating the perfect loaf of bread with the crackly crust and the tender crumb.  I am not satisfied with it just tasting good, it must also be a work of art.

When I was a little girl my family moved to France. I became fascinated with the many different types and styles of baked items. It loaf, each pastry was so beautiful. A true expression of the artisan that created it.

Later, in my 20's I started baking school when I was at loose ends. Because we had to taste everything we made, I found that in 2 months time I'd put on 20 lbs. Baking school didn't last long, but it was a great thing to be able to pull out my recipes and bake bread or rolls and pastry when I wanted to impress.  Now, in my 50's  I don't worry as much about my weight. I press forward striving to create that perfect loaf.  Hope you will come along with me. The journey is always more enjoyable when we take it with friends.