yes Todd, always treat "all 6 sides" of the wood the same or you're wasting your time, especially soak the end grain .... if it's drying fast, try applying it with a rag in each hand, wipe it on with one and following along with the other, wipe it off - and depending on what you're using [especially w/ the spar varnish], you'll want to sand it lightly with 220 - 320 grit before following coats
Bill