Counting Sefira Somewhat Early

“Hineni Muchan U’mezuman” before Sefirat Ha’omer

I am not consistent about saying “Hineni Muchan U’mezuman” before Sefirat Ha’Omer. Should I decide one way or the other, and which way is better?

Use of Informal Sefira Counting to Solve Problems

If one answers an inquiry about what day of the omer it is and does not count again that day, may he count the next day with a beracha? If yes, an onen (before funeral of close relative, who does not perform mitzvot) for a full day of sefira should be able to simulate such a statement and be allowed to continue with a beracha the next day.