* It is so important that your water is at 105ºF. If you use water that is too cold, the yeast won't activate and your bread won't rise which will create dense, heavy bread. If you use water that is too hot, it will kill the yeast which will also create dense, heavy bread.
** You could also just use 2 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour if you don't want to buy another ingredient. I like using the cornmeal because it adds a really nice texture to the crust.