One issue that you brought up was the lather drying out mid shave and needing to be re-applied. This is not uncommon while learning to make a quality lather and how to use the razor. You may want to try just lathering one side of your beard, finishing that side up and then lathering the other side. When the lather dries out it can irritate the skin (how much it irritates would depend on your skin and the soap being used).

You have received a lot of sound advice above, good luck and let us know how things progress.

Matt