Now that cooler weather is on its way you might want to make a proofing box for your bread. The directions are in the archives of this list with the title of How to Make a Proofing Box. When my husband made one for me a few months ago we could not find a styrofoam big enough for my bread bowl, but we did find a styrofoam rose cone in the hardware store that is perfect. My favorite basic french bread would lend itself well for a mix. I use a mix of seeds for the top, usually sesame, poppy, flax, and caraway.
Exotic ingredients are fine.
I will pre-package the yeast separately for them. So, please send any ideas you might have. I started to make bread about 25 years ago, stopped for a long time, and then started again last winter. I too drooled over the bread machines and then decided that I really didn't want one. Personally I enjoy the process of making bread and being in control of it as much as possible.