Thanks for sharing your comments guys.

Mark, I don't quite understand the bolting description. Was this for added reinforcement? Did you find your wedges to actually work and spread the tenon out being 3" from the edge of the tenon? that seems like a lot. I planned my wedges to be only about 3/4" from the edges.

John, I did give the more rustic approach some thought, but was talked out of it, By Jack Sobon of all people.... he live near by, so i bug him for advice now and then. I've already committed to the "furniture look" of flush tenons as I've already cut the tread stock to length. thanks for the ideas anyway.

will yet ya, know how it turns out. maybe will post a pic if i don't screw it up....