Stephen, this maple was cut about 3yrs ago. It sat in my back yard until I was ready to use it. It is pretty dry, but still cuts very well and sands even better.
On other thick bowls, I've turned them and then put them into paper bags. I check them every couple of days for cracks. If one appears I apply some think CA glue to the crack mixed with sanding dust, charcoal dust or coffee grounds. If need be that gets returned but most times I can just sand it out.