ToH Braided Bread

2 pkg yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1-1/2 cups warm milk
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup sugar
1 Tbs salt
3 eggs
7-1/2- 8 cups flour

Topping:
Mix:
1 egg; splash milk
sesame seed

In large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, shortening, sugar, salt, eggs, and 4 cups flour. Beat until smooth.
Stir in enough remaining flour to form soft dough.

Knead for 6-8 min.
Place in greased bowl and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
Punch down and divide in half.
Divide each half into thirds.
Place on greased pan.
Shape each piece into ropes, and braid together.
Tuck ends under.
Repeat with other half.
Let rise 45 min or until doubled.
Brush with Egg wash and sprinkle with seeds.
Bake 350 degree 30-35 minutes. or until golden brown. Cool.