Hey - thanks folks! Great answers and suggestions...
I reread my post and must confess that it sounds a little more panicky than I really am...
I'm actually really enjoying this whole experience... I think most of my problems stem from the awkwardness of being a beginner....
When I say "bloody progress" - I just mean that there is usually a nick involved... nothing outrageous... But Lynn's point is a good one... I will stick t to the sideburn area and part of the cheek and just focus on that.
It's hard not to get excited after you finish your sideburns... "Man.... CHECK ME OUT, I'M SHAVING WITH A STRAIGHT RAZOR! I think I'll just move to the neck, and the chin, and the....OUCH!"
The night shaving also sounds like a good idea... I'd been thinking of something like that...
Best,