Longshot, that's a great pipe for a first. Isn't it great looking at something you've made yourself? Having some wood working experience helps, but making a pipe can be a different monster altogether. It is also addicting and can get expensive the more you get into it.
As for the stain, I'd suggest that you stain a darker stain like you did the rustication, then wet sand with 1000 grit wet/dry sandpaper and then go back over it with a light stain. This will bring out any grain and birdseye that might be in the block. You can always sand off any stain job you don't find that you like and stain another color.
I've got a pipe stand just like that one......... And the real dog to match.