Almost there...

Okay, I received my blade and strop last week and I was debating on trying to sharpen it myself. I finally decided on using a professional service. It should be returned by next weekend. In the meantime I have purchased some additional paraphernalia: a nice Parker shave brush with stand, some Mitchell's wool fat shaving soap, and a witch hazel aftershave. Yesterday I decided to try out my new stuff with a disposable. It was nice to practice with lathering the shave soap. I will probably continue using the brush and shave soap until my straight razor is returned. The lather I was able to build was so much better than what I used to shave with. Using a shave brush is new to me as well and a very pleasant experience.

Definitely keep up the lather practice. Having good lather sorted is going to make the whole learning with a straight that much easier as its one less thing to worry about. Besides it feels so good. Good luck with your first shave. Ed

Good advice so far regarding your lathering. If and when the time comes I can no longer shave with a straight, I will still use my DE and top quality soaps/creams with a brush. Never again will canned goo touch my face.