So I've had my approximately 5th or so shave and already I can tell a difference. It definitely pays off to never give up. I'm determined and excited that I've been able to get some pretty smooth shaves since I've started straight razor shaving. I'm trying new techniques each time I shave to find the best angle and pressure. Lather doesn't seem to be a problem. It's pretty creamy and allows for the blade to glide pretty smoothly on my skin. I've resorted to less pressure than I originally stated. I was getting some minor razor burn at first but allowed my skin to rest a day or two in between shaves.

Practice makes perfect for all you users reading for information before you dive into straight razor shaving. Once you try it, you'll be hooked. Just don't give up and continue to try different techniques. There's plenty of info here on this forum as well as YouTube. Watch as many videos as you can and read as much as you can here about shaving techniques and you should have yourself a nice beginning to a fantastic journey with a straight razor. I can't believe that society has strayed from the straight razor. It just a far superior shave than what I grew up with in disposables and electric shaving.