Scout, I believe we have similar tastes. When I started this venture 3 years ago, the plan was to do a transparent gray with white accents on the deck. Now, I’m just liking the wood look more. My mind is pretty set on a dark color for the furniture, most likely a walnut. No hurry on the deck, but I’d like to go ahead & have a color picked when I get ready to stain in the fall. I like the idea of a lighter color. That will help with my next color venture, the fencing.lol. I’ll probably do the fencing in the darker color. I’m just really paranoid when it comes to the lighter stain. I’m so worried it’s going to be orangey. I will definitely add pics when they’re completed. I cut all of the wood for them today. I cut enough for 4 chairs & 2 chaise lounges. Hopefully I can get them done this week.