Ten: Completion.

Finished and in use.

The table is in its second home now, taking the scars and character with it, older and more mature. It's brighter now, with more soul shining through. I would like to think it's happier. I know I am.

Nine: Bringing Out the Best.

Beginning the staining process. I want the natural wood grain to steal the show, so I chose a very light stain and finished with a solid protective coat.

The protective coat gave the top a little shine, which I like.

Eight: Reconstruction.

In order to reassemble the table, I need to build it in a different way. I don't want to put nails top down through the boards, so instead I'm adding a few bits of wood to form a frame. Then, I can screw up into the boards, keeping the screws hidden and providing a more secure attachment. Elegant and functional.

To keep with the spirit of the table, I didn't want to use brand new wood. Instead, I went to the Rebuilding Center in Portland and found some older, salvaged wood to add for the frame.

I love the natural wood grain. It's hard to imagine painting over this.