Dutchmen

[DC]

I was hoping it was with something I had

[Del the cat]

I generally put my plugs in with the growth rings running parallel to the length of the bow, But I don't think it really makes any difference.
Just checked back through my blog and they are actually pretty random! 
Del

How do you make a dowel with the grain running across it?

You are confusing the grain and the rings... (don't we all?)
The plug is like an arrow shaft... the grain runs along the length... but you can see the rings on the end of the arrow.
Del

[Jim Davis]

I don't often  need to fill a defect, but I do make the grain run lengthwise of the bow. I also make the plug such that it will only fit the opening if the bow is slightly reflexed. That way the plug is already in compression when the bow is unbraced and slightly more compressed than neighboring wood when braced and drawn.