I spent a couple of days thinking I may have ruined my starter. Days 10 through 16 with Herb included about three days of true dormancy. No rise, no movement, nothing dramatic. The book did not mention this stage, and I wish it had, because it can last a few days or even a full week. It feels like everything has stalled even though something important is happening underneath. Dormant does not mean dead. A new starter often needs this quiet stretch to rebalance the yeast and bacteria. It may look still on the surface, but the strength is building. Then almost out of nowhere, Herb began doubling in size and he did it four days in a row. This is the moment you wait for. Predictable rise, steady bubbles, and consistent feedings that begin to show results. Tonight I am giving Herb another feeding with the plan to start my first loaf tomorrow! Follow along as I attempt my first sourdough bread. SourdoughStarter NewWorldSourdough MealAndGraceKitchen LearningAsIGo GulfCoastBaker LTKfoodie LTKvlog LTKHome