One other bit of advice for going the regional route: make sure that you are able to live in domicile in the first year! I decided to join a regional that has NO west coast presence, and I live in San Diego. Commuting for poverty pay is bogus! Also, recent pay increases at most regional carriers is around $37/HR. Don't go anywhere that isn't keeping up with that. Republic is at $40, if you can live in domicile with them, you might be able to afford uniforms AND food. We are lucky to have that military pension, but still not enough to put us into the tax bracket we've gotten used to.

Regional life isn't as bad as it may seem, especially for retired military, there's a light at the end of the tunnel for us. 121 flying is a different world, and regional experience has really shaped my expectations and desires for my "forever job." Also, you meet and fly with some solid dudes, who, in my experience, have put my sense of entitlement in check. We are tourists at the regional, these guys have been slugging it out for 10-20 years, and are incredibly competent. They aren't going to get a call to a major before you!

Anyhow, I'm rambling. Nothing better to do while on reserve far from home. Keep me updated on your progress, I love to see poor rotor trash make good on the world.