>>3
After I get the main part of the alphabet down, what should be my next step?
It's not an alphabet, it's a syllabary. And there's no "main part", all of the characters are important.
I've been told to start memorizing kanji
As an absolute beginner it's way too early for you to start learning kanji. Wait at least until you ay least know your は from your が.
i've been told to go pick up some -more- text books because you can never have enough
You'll just get overwhelmed, and if your interest in the language wanes, you'll be stuck with a huge load of useless textbooks. It's best to stick to one textbook.
i've been told to start working on grammar particles and syntax
This is really the most sound piece of advice.