I got my first SDS from @ronott1, it came dried if I remember correctly. But I didn't understand the process. It seemed very confusing and wasteful to me (all that "discard!", lol!), and I ended up killing it. I got another start recently from my pastor's daughter, did a lot more research and am having the time of my life with it. By all means dry and/ or freeze some for when you are back on your feet! And if you need a fresh start, just holler. Either I or Ron will be happy to kick-start you again by sending you a fresh batch!Since I will be “out” at least 4 weeks after the 1st hip surgery, I’m going to try that too, I wasn’t aware you could do that !