Thanks for the tips. I had a couple of black walnut trees taken down early last year so they are well seasoned. I ended up using the bigger portions for seats around the fire pit.
I like the idea of removing the bark and may give it a try with Apple sometime. I would try Mesquite - however, I am not allowed to use it in this house. We found out the hard way that she is allergic to Mesquite (to the point of needing to get shots at the Urgent Care). It does put a hamper on trying out new BBQ when out and about because of it.
I may try this when experimenting with a new cut of beef sometime....