when we are in the mountains i spend a lot of time cooking, especially in the colder months. this Christmas i was very sick, but i did manage to make a few loaves of french bread.  this recipe is so easy i say it takes as much effort as making a bowl of cereal.  you will amaze all of your friends and even jaded older children will think you are cool when you set this on the table.  you can find a thorough explanation at http://aresrocket.com/bread/ and watch original recipe being made at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13Ah9ES2yTU.  i have been making it with about 1/3 whole wheat pastry flour and putting wheat bran on the top.