I figured out that for me going against the grain was much easier if I lay the razor almost flat on my face. I saw where someone else did that and I thought I would try it. So far that is working out.

Stropping - now I do probably 50 or more times. I just keep going till I am like.. This has to be to much lol.. I would lather before I strop but it takes me to long to strop and the lather would be nice a dry on my face.