I have been hunting for a reasonably priced butcherblock for some time.  Of course it would be found at Wayfair.  It's exactly what I wanted.  I sealed it with some mineral oil and it's beautiful.  To seal, do not use any kind of vegetable oil or animal fat.  I got my mineral oil at the pharmacy, the same that's sold as a laxative.  I gave the top and sides a liberal coat, let it soak into the wood, then applied even more.  After a couple more hours, I used a papertowel to clean off all excess.  The wood is now a beautiful golden/amber color.  It's exactly what I want.