Hello Jay, welcome to TSR.
I was quite amused by the fact that you said that your first DE shave was very satisfying, but it actually sounds like you had a bit of a 'mare!
A few points, which have probably been mentioned by those that have replied before me:
Wet your beard, wash it, and then rinse with loads and loads of water. The wetter the better.
When you shave, make sure that the angle of the blade where it meets your face is around 30 degrees. I used to hold the razor handle parallel to the floor and then slowly angle it until I heard hair being cut. Try to maintain the same angle all over your face and neck.
Use very light pressure. Let the weight of the razor do the work. Keep the razor so that the blade is just incontact with your face.
Take your time - maybe even get up a little earlier so you don't need rush.
EDIT: Oh, and check out the mantic59 videos on youtube.
Ian