Hey dude, GL! I remember working my way up through 2nl, it was less than a year ago lol and I remember how much of a grind it was. My advice is to just STICK WITH IT! That is the most important thing, don't get bored and just up and decide to deposit more money so you can move up faster. There's an unofficial saying: "Poker will promote you when you are ready." Basically saying, once you are good enough to beat the stake you are at, poker will reward you with enough winnings for you move up.

It sounds like you already have a BR management plan in mind? If not check out some of the articles around the site, BRM is KEY to keeping your OP alive and running.

Another thing, go to the Beginner's Circle and devour everything in the Beginner's Digest. That should help you out quite a bit, it did me. Again, good luck with your operation.