Hey guys.

I've gotta make this quick, but I thought it was necessary as a right of passage to post about my first straight shave.

I purchased my blade and brush, as well as a paddle strop and a puck of Williams from Bruce a few days ago and today was the big day of it's arrival. In the meantime, I was able to do lot's (LOT'S) of research on SRP and had the opportunity to stock up on some products.

Anyway, within 10 minutes of getting the package, I was lathering up my face with the provided Williams and wa-bam, I was shaving. The lather was probably on the pathetic side, but not knowing what a good lather was (besides seeing it on youtube) I decided to go with it. So I stretched the skin on my right sideburn, and went to town. The razor slid nicely on the first stroke, and took off a good amount of stubble. I rinsed off the blade, and went for another stroke.. and another and another.. and soon enough my right cheek and sideburn were pretty darn smooth. Against conventional wisdom, I decided to get a feel for my left hand, and took a small but successful stroke on my left sideburn but quickly decided I should wait for another day to do more.

I went on to rinse.. relather with proraso green this time and complete the shave with my boring ol mach 3.

Finished the experience off with a rinse.. witch hazel splash.. and a final splash of Old Spice Classic AS.

Now that I'm finished.. I can't wait for the next go. I decided to strop tonight as well.. and don't know how I did.. didn't knick or damage the thing.. but I have no idea whether or not I dulled the blade.. or did it correctly.. I guess I'll know if the blade doesn't cut next time I shave.

So.. this ends my rushed, but proud post of my first shave.

Cheers gentleman, and thanks to all who've helped. Especially Bruce for providing me with the tools to embark on the journey.

Andrew