What's in your lab? When I hear paper cert, and someone that has trouble doing what you are trying to do, I sort of lose a little confidence in that person being even a CCNA level. I guess I can understand trying to get your foot in the networking door, and I do applaud you for setting up a lab, to hone your CCNA skills and practice on what is lacking. Post a topology and config of the 2509---we'd be glad to help.
Also, I would actually console in or even telnet into the 2509, and from there...
router(config)#ip host R1 192.168.1.2
router(config)#ip host R2 192.168.2.2
etc...
router(config)#int lo0
router(config-if)#ip add 172.16.1.1 255.255.255.255
router(config-if)#end
router#wr
router#R1
Translating "R1"...domain server (255.255.255.255)
Trying R1 (192.168.1.2)... Open
User Access Verification
Password:
Of course, you need a vty password, and it helps to have a console password.
Burt