wulffpaul wrote:
 Your beard is coming along very well, Mike, and you need have no misgivings about your progress since at 2 weeks you already look bearded, which is more than many manage. The fact that your beard grows in different directions on each side of your face is not unusual and will become less noticeable as your beard gains length. At your present rate of growth your beard should be looking respectable at 4 weeks, although not the finished article, and at 8 weeks it should be looking really good. The only thing I would venture to suggest is that you tidy up your neckline, unless you are aiming for a big beard or prefer the natural look. For my thoughts on necklines check out my sticky post at the top of the facial hair help forum.

Keep growing. Stay bearded!

wulff
Thanks for the encouragement and for the tip! I took a look at your neckline carving thread and gave it a shot. It was my first time so I found it a bit difficult, but I tried to stay conservative and take as little off as possible. Perhaps some step-by-step diagrams or photos of good necklines would help newbies like myself. Anyways, it made quite a difference. I feel my beard stands out a bit more now. I would really appreciate any advice or feedback on my neckline.