''''On another positive note, I won $80 on only my third time at a casino poker room. It was exciting. And $80 seemed good for a $2-$4 table.'''''

Steven, take the advice from an old pro. Contrary to your thinking winning $80.00 at the poker table was a positive thing, I'm going to bust your bubble. The best possible thing that could have happened to you is to lose not only that $80.00 but your initial stake as well.