I am kind of in the same situation. Same age, from "humble" background with a ppl. On top of that I have a wife and two kids. I am planning on pursuing my flying dream the same way, by staying out of debt and eating away at hours and ratings over the next few years in hopes that when I reach my early to mid 30's there will be a job for me. Good luck!

BTW... My BA is in History and I love that area of study. Feel you there.