Thread: Greetings from Chicago

Just joined this fine forum, and first off, thanks to all the members who dedicate their time and knowledge to us ignorant newcomers. It's been a joy to peruse the collective wisdom offered up by this great community over the past few days.

I was taught to shave on a DE courtesy of my father, but quickly fell into the convenience trap that is the cartridge market. I revisited DE briefly in college but soon abandoned it again for the ready availability, and brevity of effort afforded by the inferior method.

Fast forward many years of overpriced, subpar shaves...
I was snapped from the herd recently when, at my request, an acquaintance who works in the grooming/fashion industry recommended stocking stuffers for my, new-to-me, father-in-law and brother-in-law: a tube of C.O. Bigelow shave cream (by Prograso). The shipment included a bonus free travel size cream which I kept for myself. The scent reminded me of the Musgo Real my father used (he passed some years back) and it was actually a decent lathering cream (without brush). The scent and the fond memories of my father opened the door...and then I promptly fell down the stairs.

I did my first DE shave in years this past Wednesday and it was such a thrill. It ended up being such a close shave I haven't shaved since. I ended up starting with a Feather AS-D1 with Feather blades, a Semagoue 830, horn bowl, TOBS almond cream and preshave oil. I already had the C.O. Bigelow sampler cream and some good after shave moisturizers from Kiehl's and Malin + Goetz. Best shave I've had in years. Almost too close for the current Chicago cold winds. I forgot how naked a closely shaved neck can feel. On the positive side, my silk and cashmere scarves will no longer look as though they've been chewed by rats.

I'm looking forward to continuing to learn, improve, refine, and hopefully, one day be able to contribute wisdom of my own to a beginner, someone just like me now, regarding this fine pursuit. It seems a fitting aim to repay the vast amount of knowledge already consumed.

I've already ordered a straight and maintenance tools for the next plateau...so let the madness begin.

I'll end with a question: are there any formal regional groups in the forum? As I delve into straights I'd like to be on the alert for local GTGs, sessions, etc. in Chicago. If not, any members from the Chicago area who are aware of information on local groups or activities are encouraged to PM me with details.

Thanks all, and clean shaves to you.
jt benson

Welcome. I am not sure about purely regional groups, only international. However, just keep your eye on the new posts; as that's usually where the GTG's are announced.

thanks much tiddle; will do.

JT - warm greetings.
'Mostly want to confirm that getting together w/ a group or other experienced str8 shavers will help speed your learning curve *ALOT*.
As questions come up - post 'em here. 'Good to have you & enjoy the ride.

thanks pinklather. indeed, i've learned with other interests/pursuits that face-to-face time with others with far more knowledge and experience than i, is time very well spent (excellent ROI).
cheers