I am an RN and I think getting an LPN license and then proceeding to RN is an excellent idea. As you mentioned, you can be working once you have the LPN license. LPN pay is decent and some hospitals will help with the cost of the LPN-to-RN program. Another thought is that you will be working in your field sooner and have a good idea whether or not you like nursing before you invest more time and $$ in it.

Best wishes to you. I've always loved nursing and I hope you will also.