Don't feel like the Lone Ranger. I think we've all had to walk that lonesome valley for a time. For some it is longer than for others but if you keep at it one day, just like with your new found stropping technique, you'll find the shaves are suddenly closer, smoother and eventually done more quickly. The honing is a skill that just takes practice and if you're lucky enough to find a mentor close enough to visit with, or at least to speak with on the phone. Lynn and Randy were mine and still are sometimes. Take Alan (AFDavis) up on his offer of telephone mentoring. You'll no doubt benefit from his experience.