hickory questions

[TroyH]

I have 2 questions about some hickory I just cut.  First, the hickory was very wet, but I went ahead and sprayed on sealer and insect killer.  In a few days I checked in on the staves and noticed that some remained light colored while some had turned a brownish color (i.e. the one in the middle).  Is that normal, and if so, do you sand or scrape off the color?

Second, notice the areas that were revealed when the bark was peeled off.  They are where new limbs or twigs were beginning to grow.  What to do with these - try to avoid them in the layout or what?  

[bigcountry]

The cool thing about hickory is its tough and when that bark comes off, it didn't violate any rings like you might with a draw knife.  I am not that knowledgeable but I would avoid as much as possible, but not be too woried about it.  

Not sure about the color.

[DeployableBowyer]

leave the knots, scrape up to it, but don't cut through it or it will be a weak spot and break. Check out the Bowyer's Bibles if you haven't already, it will step you through the process.