Hey mate,
I haven't been learning astronomy for very long only half a year odd and I haven't really gone in search of any galaxies yet but I have been trying to Nebula's. I have been keen on seeing the M42 Nebula but never been able to find it. I have pointed my scope at Orion uncountable amount of times with no luck. I think I'm in the same boat as you man, expecting too much.
Good luck on your hunt, I would love to know if you get lucky and spot it!
