Table update

Taking advice from your comments, I went over the table again with 220 grit sandpaper, just to be sure that it was completely ready for stain.  The first application was pretty nervewracking, it's a very dark stain (Varathane Espresso we used on our floors) and always tends to look blotchy while it's soaking in. 

You ya like my polka dot dishwashing glove?  I couldn't find any throw away gloves, and I never use these for dishes, so booyah! New staining gloves.  I really didn't want another 'zombie manicure', one is enough in my lifetime.  Speaking of zombies, did anyone get into 'The Walking Dead' on AMC?  I'm still scared to watch the last part of the first episode! 

Anywannaeatyourbrain, I was pretty pleased with the way the table came out after just one coat of stain...

But then I pulled it outside the following day and was a little disappointed that there were little missed spots in the heavy wood grain, and it was generally washed-out. 

So, I tortured myself by applying a second coat and then getting all upset when some areas turned out darker than others.  But honestly, it's the pattern of the good grain and how they sawed the wood...not so much my fault.  Plus, I think it looks richer now - and I love how the striping of the wood is so much more visible.

Now I just need to figure out how to apply the top coat without getting all the sanding dust in our garage all over it.  And don't tell me to use the shop vac, I'm lazy.  God knows I can't do it outside, either, my neighbor's trees would immediately drop heaps of leaves all over it and a pesky squirrel would run across it for good measure.  Plus, it's supposed to rain this weekend.  Bah!  Bah again!