Managed to get the rest sanded off yesterday and boy my hand today is paying the price lol.
Sucks getting old folks =P

I followed up with some nice Russet Amber Analine Dye coat to get that end grain curled flame to pop.

When I applied it I thought "oh shit this is too dark!" but after it dried and I sanded it out it got to where I was hoping it would be! Whew...

Better photos here with my MKII vs the cell phone ones above and previous. 

And a shot showing off my sanded area making the top flat aka a 50's Les Paul.

I will keep updating here for those few who care to check it out.

Not much interest on the forums so not gonna bother with that avenue any more.