Drying time depends on many factors, kind of wood, environment where it's stored, etc. I think you, and the wood, would be better off if larger pieces were stored properly to dry before milling into blank sizes. When I get a piece, I slab the sides and seal the ends with Anchorseal and put away. If you are wanting to make a blank and pen right now, blanks can be microwaved to remove moisture. I stack on paper plates so air can circulate and zap for 30 second intervals with about a minute rest in between. Nothing scientific, just do it until they 'feel' right. If you do want to cut then dry, seal just the ends.