[rodney123]

Personally, I like the large floor tiles on the counter top. I have done many over the years, and they are beautiful and long lasting.

I have never used the cement backer board on a counter top. The cement backer is mostly necissary in very wet areas, such as a shower and tub surround. Since you used 3/4" plywood, you should be set.

There are different types of mastic though, so be sure the one you use is for wet areas. Or, you can use a good thinset mortar. It comes in gray or white. If you are going to use a light colored grout, go with the white. Otherwise the gray is just fine.