Just short of a year here, and some of the things I have learned:
As a beginner, it is extremely easy to kill the perfect edge that Lynn gave you -- whether bad stropping, technique, or other "sin".
It is not difficult to use stones to regain the edge, but then again it is equally as easy to destroy your blade.
After a while, your blood vessels will cower at the sight of your blade. At that point, you will notice that you bleed less, if at all after a shave.
You will suffer some type of acquisition disorder -- whether it be soap, blades or bay rum. Be prepared for it.
And, as stated above, Practice, Practice, and then Practice some more.

One thing I still have to grasp is how to shave my fu#%*ng chin It is getting better though.