I think whatever you do you save the character and whatever marks time has made into the piece.Taking that awat would lesson the meaning of what your trying to do.

Looks about right. Carve a handle on one end and you’ve goy yourself a board of education. God knows there’s a lot of people who could use a dose of it.

Osky

like what has been said, your grams,dadsand family birthdays weddings,date they built thier houses...family history, it is something special.

Excellent ideas!