Well, I broke down and bought bread machine yeast.  I'd recently been frustrated with my bread machine, since the loaves it was turning our were not rising properly and thus at least very heavy, if not misshapen.  This was with active dry yeast, which used to work very well, but no longer does.  I'm still not sure the reason for that.  Perhaps I'll find out as I continue my life-long learning!

I used the new yeast yesterday and the loaf turned out beautifully.  I now am inspired to continue using it since it is so much better than the bread from the store.  I am looking forward to trying more recipes from my cookbook!