I'll admit it, I read all the posts in this thread. I hope it is okay to bring this thread up again--old new but good news.
Started some bread yesterday morning, prepared the towel and basket and dough this morning. It's going in the oven in a half hour!
Then, I started another loaf last night, which I want to try tonight, and I may add cheese, tomatoes, herbs (my buddy herb) from the garden, mmmmmmmm I'm so excited!
I'll report back my progress.
The first loaf, in an oblong casserole w/cover, turned out very even, dense, nice, mmmm.
The second one I put in cheddar cheese, basil, and fresh chopped romas. The crust was harder but still good, the inside moist, dense, even. I even brought some to share at work today. MMMM, I'll make this again.