Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - how long can i wait to stain new cedar deck?

I have been trying to stain my new cedar deck for about a month and either I have been to busy at work or when I do have the time it rains etc.
I am getting concerned that the wood will start turning color or get ruined by all the water.

The deck is about 6 weeks old and I sanded it about 4 weeks ago in order to remove all the mill finish etc. and prep it for good stain absorbtion, and I was hoping to stain it with in a few days after sanding. However because of the delay as mentioned above - it has been 4 weeks now.

My question is:

Is it too late? or is 6 weeks not really that long?

I put a lot of money in this deck and am hoping I didnt wait too long.
I am trying to stain it in the next week or so and hope it turns out as nice and last as mong as it would have if i got to it 4 weeks ago.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

Sooner is better, but I doubt 6 weeks will have done much. Just make sure it is dry and cover the top and bottom.