I'm calling this a win and done.
I will admit the end end grain could be a lot better but I find I just don't have the patience to deal with the small details like that. It doesn't show as it's up against some closet folding doors anyways. At least the top looks presentable now.
Here's the 'Before' shot:
And the 'After' shot:
My wife has yet to pass judgement on it.
