1. Cut bread into 1/2-inch cubes, or simply break apart and crumble into large crumbs.

2. Spread bread pieces on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 20 minutes.

3. Reduce oven temperature to 200 degrees and continue baking for at least 2 hours, and as long as 6 hours. (Monitor bread if you've never done this before--my oven won't burn it at 200, even when left in overnight.)

4. Remove dried bread from oven and place cookie sheet on cooling rack until cool.

5. Add seasonings, stirring to mix. Store in a tightly sealed container or zipper freezer bag (will puncture light ziplock bags) until needed.

To make the stuffing:

Heat 1 3/4 - 2 cups of water to boiling. Add 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter and stir until melted. Remove from heat, stir in 3 cups of stuffing mix (1 batch), cover, and let sit for 6-8 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve, or use in a recipe.