So I decided to go again with my Merkur HD after watching some YouTube videos, and voila, BBS! I think the key (for me anyway) is not being afraid of the razor. Before I was so scared of cutting myself that I cut myself, without cutting the hair. This time, I just shaved and switched angles/directions, as needed, with positive results.
In total it took me about 40 minutes, but I'm sure that will come down with time.
In Sum:
Merkur HD shorty;
Personna Blue Blade;
Trumper's Lime Shave Cream;
Silver Tip Badger Brush;
Razor Rock and Nivea Balm to Finish