Re: could someone possibly mail me kefir grains (to NY)?

I've made kefir from store-bought (Lifeway brand) Kefir beverage. (Buy the plain, not flavored).

Then proceed as you would making yogurt.

Haven't done that? Heat milk to a boil (as much as you want- I usually make about 2 or 3 quarts). Boil it for a minute, then allow it to cool down to 115'F. At that temperature (a little below is ok, too), gently mix in some of the store-bought kefir; just a tablespoon or two is plenty.

Cover your warm milk, and put it in the oven overnight. Leave your oven light on, that will incubate your kefir. In the morning, the whole pot will be kefir. Put it into the refrigerator to firm up, and to kep it from spoiling. Before you eat it all, remember to set aside some to make your next pot. The clear liquid that forms over time is whey. You may eat it or discard it- your choice.

I suppose we'll hear shortly about any important differences between this method and kefir "grains." I'm quite happy with this method- it sounds a lot more messy the other way, and I get plenty of probiotics with this product.