Greetings from Sacramento, CA

Hi! 

My name is Braxton.  Looks like an impressive forum here.  I already posted once and so many people offered advice and healthy debate.  I am looking forward to getting to know everyone and try out some of these recipes.

I actually haven't made a loaf of bread yet....ever.  I started researching sour dough starters for pancakes and waffles.  I thought it would be fun to get a starter going on my wedding day and see if it will last a lifetime with my wife.  One thing lead to another, and I find myself intrigued by all the passion about bread.  To be honest, I've always considered bread just a filler and not very important in a meal.  But, the passion and descriminating taste for bread here and other places on the net are contagious.  I thought, "Am I missing something here?".  So, I went to Trader Joe's and got some fresh artisan bread - Ciabatta.  I went home with some wine and cheese and started eating the bread.  I focused on it.  I tasted it, smelled it, and tried to describe it.  I have never really given bread much of a thought but was suprised at the experience of eating bread when I did.  Needless to say I ate the whole small loaf. 

I'm looking forward to visiting the Tartine Bakery in San Francisco next week and tasting thier bread the same way.  I'm excited about learning more here and sharing as I achieve some good results.

Braxton