My neighbor had a Calif Black Oak blow down. Knowing I worked with wood he offered me some. I took two pieces. One straight log about 4 feet long and 12 inches in diameter. The other is a crotch piece about 3 feet long and 14 inches in diameter at the main stem end and 10 inches diameter at each branch stem end. I have painted the ends to prevent cracks. Now what? Should I let them sit for a year or so before opening them up? Or?
Any recommentations are gratefully accepted.