[bholdr]

since you now have a roll that is appropriate for that level, you should definitly buy in for the maximum. i don't know who told you to buy in short... it's almost always a bad idea. sure, you won't lose as much, but i think it's 'unhealthy' to base your strategys around trying to lose less. you are trying to WIN MORE... (right?). personally, when i play NL holdem, i always buy in for the maximum, and if i drop more than 10% or so of the buy in, i reload to the max. i like to have as much or more than anyone else at the table, so i can get their whole stack if things line up right for me.

it looks like you've had a nice little run, don't be discouraged if it doesn't continue to go your way, tough it out and keep working on your game. you should definitly be bonus whoring now that you have $500- at least find an empire 20% bonus- long term you will actually make a lot more in bonus than in play until you hit a higher level than $25 N. There are so many good bonus oppurtunities out there that you're really giving up a lot (like $10more/hr) by not constantly whoring. tke a look at absolute, paradise, and eurobet (w/ a rakeback deal).. also, open a pokerstars acct- there is no sign up bonus, but they do have very nice occasional reloads that you'll want to be eligable for.

gl

b