Meg, I just recently had a starter for Amish Cinnamon Friendship Bread that was not refrigerated. It was fine leaving it at room temperature. In the end, I had to toss the starter because I just couldn't use enough of the bread. My starter came from the school where I teach. After about 3 or 4 weeks of everyone bringing in bread and more starter, I think we all tired of it. I haven't seen either bread or starter for weeks! I wish I had kbown about freezing it. I think I would have given that a try. Good luck:-)!!