Yeah i guess you guys are right...everything it`s fast pace here..(hence the phrase do it in a new york minute), i guess that doesn`t apply to shaving .
Also remember what 'you' can feel is not what 'others' can see.
Noob here too; I started the same time you did 12-31-12 and had similar results as you posted. I posted a little about it in my intro referring to it as my "5 o'clock shadow." I heeded the advice to slow down and was able to get a nice smooth shave like I did on 12-31 this morning. I know for me I was hyper focused and did better taking my time and relaxing a bit. Hope this helps.