yes, please keep this updated.
I particularly like how one you might play with the wood grain for effect.
I mean: depending on how you initially select and re-size the piece, you could exploit the grain's patterns.
I suspect that, structurally, you'll probably have more success if the axis along which you mill is similar to the natural growth axis of the original tree's wood, but perhaps re-sizing your workpiece so that these axes vary by, say, 15 - 45 degrees, may result in some interesting looks.
What special treatment does wood need, to best be used for this ?
(I know sweet fanny adams about wood ...)