[emptyshell]

Raising preflop in early position is really just about style of play. I'd have no problem playing for a potraise with either of these hands, whether I make it or not. Usually, if I'm the first one in, I'll just limp, since I'll typically be playing against someone who has position on me (if anyone plays at all). If there is already a limper in front of me, I'll tend to pot it, since I'm likely to have position after the flop. I know other good players that will make preflop raise decisions only looking at the cards and nothing else (position, etc., is irrelevant to them.)

Folding on the turn in the first hand is probably the correct move. I'd likely call, anyway, but I've been far too loose lately.

You overplayed your hand on the second board and just got lucky. With six players in (i.e. 24 cards out), I do not give non-nut flush draws or top and bottom pair much value, especially without a low draw.