I have similar issues. Most LDs are too short. Usually you have them at the end of REM...seems like you become more aware then when close to waking up. However I have had a few long ones...I suspect I got lucid near the start of the dream. I would also recommend going for DEILD at that point...keep touching something in the dream world until you no longer feel it. Then RC in case you are false awake and in the next dream.