Put together mostly in accordance with the Ana plans, but this one is one 1x6 wider than the original plans with aprons, legs, breadboards, etc. widened as necessary. Also, the table-top is connected all from the bottom so I could avoid having to patch a bunch of nail holes on the top (lots of screws and pocket holes to pull it all together that way). I'd highly recommend a Kreg jig for the table, as it allows for most of the screwed connections to be hidden.
We're moslty just happy to have a rock-solid table that's easy to clean with our 3 and 5 year old boys. The table this is replacing was a hand-me-down antique that was quite shaky.
The matching benches will be coming along as well, but most of my stuff is put together after the kids go to sleep, so takes some time.
I didn't use wood conditioner prior to the stain - as I read from a good source that the gel stain will essentially do the same as conditioner + traditional stain, and somewhat wishing I would have, as there are a couple blotched areas I'm not happy with, but I'll probably notice them more than anyone else.
Minwax Hickory Gel Stain - 2 coats.
Minwax oil-based poly - 3 coats brushed underside; 3 coats brushed + 2 thin spray coats on top
Poly sanded between each coat.