Add new links to top links in Magento 1.9

Question

It's pretty easy to add some types of links to top menu using this method: http://www.magentocommerce.com/knowledge-base/entry/adding-page-links-in-the-navigation-bar

But I cannot figure out how to add a simple home page link. The above method does not seem to work. It seems that the method requires some type of URL, and if it's left blank or a "/" is used, Magento makes up a link that does not work.

I have custom theme, based on the RWD theme, with a local.xml file. I have tried to add code suggested from various websites, to add a new top link, but the code seems to not work for Magento 1.9.

I have been experimenting with the renderer.phtml file in my theme, with no luck.

Any suggestions for adding a link in the top links of Magento 1.9, especially a home page link?