Past few days I have been getting more nicks and small cuts. Realized I was using too much pressure as I was getting used to holding a blade to my face. Today lighter pressure and a great shave (from an inexperienced viewpoint) and no nicks at all.

I am getting my cheeks BBS most of the time but I am still going over everything with a cartridge when I finish. My wife has really noticed the difference in smoothness.

Still having issues with the center of my chin, guess I just need to practice more and am happy with my progress. Any suggestions for that area?

Today was the first time I have gotten some lather and water into the pin area. After I was done I rinsed it with hot tap water and dried it off as good as possible and let it air dry and then applied some lubricant to the area. Is everyone paranoid about getting that area wet or will it happen at times and just need to rinse and dry it well?

Received my second razor today a Dovo Bismark 6/8. Didn't realize that the top of the spine was all gold when I ordered it (that did not really show up well in SRD's photo) but I will get used to it and it looks and feels very nice. First shave with it will be tomorrow.

I really like the Baume.BE that I have been using and also like a warm brush to the face. Do most of you put the brush into your skuttle with a little warm/hot water imbetween latherings to keep the brush warm? How do you keep your brush warm or do you? I've tried Luke warm shaving but I do like it hot.

I did also purchase a modular paddle strop and will be trying the felt and diamond spray shortly. Really like the feel of the Premium I leather that comes with that. Much less draw than the 3" Latigo strop that came with my original kit.

Alright I've typed enough, last day of vacation and back to work tomorrow.

Thanks in advance for any replies.