Thanks! First BBS!

[FerretFace]

I've been straight shaving since Christmas. I'm very thankful for all the help I've received by visiting this site. I'm still far from perfect, but today I got my first baby smooth shave on the right side of my face. It hasn't felt this smooth since I was 12.
Right now I'm using a Parker with disposable blades. I didn't want to invest money in anything until I get better, and I don't have money anyhow. Right now I'm just focusing on my dominant side. I will do the neck and left side also, but not every day.
One thing that really helped me was how I gripped the razor. I found that the tighter I gripped the razor, the more pressure I used in shaving. Holding the razor lightly leads to a much more comfortable shave. I bet it has something to do with just letting your arm muscles relax.
I also made a little outline of my face on some paper and used arrows to indicate the grain of my beard as it shifts from spot to spot, especially on the neck. This has helped me to know when to change the direction of the blade.
Thanks for all the great help.
Keep up the good work!