Oh, man, I feel for y'all. I hope a few damaged plants is all the damage you all have from those storms. We had a hailstorm here a few weeks ago, March 23rd. It was one of the top three worst hailstorms we've ever had in Austin, coincidentally all three on March 23rd, just different years. Here's what I came home to that day ~ luckily just the hailstones and not much damage (trees, a couple onions and one pepper plant, all doing fine now, including the onions):

The thinset you use should have a specification on the bag or container. We just did 3x6 subway like cleo and used 1/4 x 1/4 as recommended on the bag and it was correct.

I prefer the larger tile for the least amount of grout that I have to clean.

Jennifer, do you have honed or polished Namib? I also clean up during and after cooking so should be good there. We were going to do honed per designer and stone warehouse rep to hid the etching, planning on getting it initally sealed and then there after per recommendations. I have 2 boys (9 and 12) well, 3 if you want to count the biggest, messiest boy my husband. They are all usually pretty good but I'm also expecting some spots, staining, etching, bruising etc. this is to be expected and I agree I like the lived in look. I guess I'm just nervous as to how quickly it can stain. Sounds like I wuld have some time to get to the stain and wouldnt be within minutes of contact. BTW- your Namib is gorgeous!