Ok so I have been fearful of yeast. I don’t know why. It is alive! It is fickle! Seems like it takes forever! But I have decided to break out of my fear. First I made these awesome soft pretzels, next I made these incredible bread sticks, then cinnamon rolls. Mmmmm. Why did I wait so long? I did do some research before opening the package. I love the science of food so I look to Alton Brown. I got his book from the library “I’m just here for more food” the baking edition. I really learned a lot about flour and yeast. Still working on the best recipes for these, but a great start. We plan on having pretzels for Super Bowl appetizers, yum yum.
bakingandbeyond 
Have you seen the 5-Minute a Day Artisan Bread cookbook? It may help you with your fear of yeast even more!
I need to look that up. Thanks! Hubby is wanting some homemade yeast donuts.