Hi everyone, we're taking down a good sized black locust tree in our backyard, and I'd like to have it milled so I can use it for a future project (the tree must "live" on!) I don't have a specific project in mind yet, but probably an outdoor bench and/or an outdoor table. No specific timeline.

My main question is what dimensions should I have it milled to? Obviously wider/thicker/longer gives me more options down the road, but I don't have much in the way of resaw capability. (Small basement shop, 110v table saw, no bandsaw). What about width and length? I'll be drying the wood outdoors in the northeast US. How much of the dimensions should I plan to lose to bowing/warping etc?

And finally, if anyone of you operate a portable sawmill out of the NJ area, I haven't found anyone to do the job yet. Thanks!