In keeping with my ongoing policy of exposing my ignorance, here is the next issue:
My Dad-a pattern maker, always oriented the grain opposite-wise. Is this what everyone always does?
Doesn't it cause problems if I have to go back and use my smoother later, or will a little thoughtful flipping of boards, etc make sure that I can plane all the face in the same direction?

On top of the above, I love choosing how all the boards will wind up in the piece, in particular, the cherry blanket chest. Strict attention to the above makes this harder, right?

Thank you, David