Hey Paul, I am 35 and I have a wife, a 20 month old girl and a small building company that I started 6 years ago. A year ago I decided to follow my heart and take to the skies. I have earned my private and Instrument within the year and still have been able to raise my daughter and run my company. Now I will say that my company has been very good to my bank acounts, but its not my passion. So I will be finishing my Comm and CFI by October and have been offered a job @ my FBO as an instructor. From there I will transition to full time instructing and enjoy it until I have enough golden hours to start my search for a regional job. And it will be a tough search ( do your research). But money isnt everything, being happy with your career is more important. Things will be tough for you and the family here and there, but youll get through it. Especially if your wife is supporting your career change. My wife has been very understanding and knows the road ahead can be very volatile. But hey, who wants a boring life, you'll always provide the things your family needs, maybe not all the wants. At least you will have a smile on your face. Good luck and stay focused..