Laurie, about your question regarding bread machines, I have used one called
Zojirushi for about 4 years now and I have never had any problems with it
except to replace the needer needle which costs about 9 dollars and is
available at the store where I bought it from. The store is called The Boch
and it is a store that sells baking items. If you would like information
about this particular brand of bread machines, I would be happy to forward
you more information. Carrie in sunny AZ.