willow & dancraig,

thank you for the info. and support. Right now I only feel comfortable shaving with my dominant hand. I tried briefly with my non-dominant and felt I better get a feel with the dom hand and can shave my entire face before getting fancy.
The small portion of my face that I shaved with the straight has never felt so smooth. I guess shaving with a straight is a skill which will be learned over time. As long as I respect the razor I should be alright.

I will keep the board posted as to my progress from time to time.