Mike Pearce wrote:

> I'd recommend getting a mortar and pestle over a grinder if you are
> going to get one or the other. For the bay leaves the results probably
> wouldn't be much different with either. I think the mortar and pestle
> is more versatile than those a coffee/spice grinders. It's worth
> getting a mortar and pestle just to make pesto if for no other reason.

shhhhhh... I use my cuisinart for pesto. Don't tell the cabal!
<wink!>

> I'm with you as far as doing things by hand is concerned. We both
> might be stupid for feeling that way, but I enjoy doing things by hand
> anyway.
>
> -Mike

Yes, very satisfying. And I'm usually still functional when the power
goes out.