I never thought
 

I'd be saying this.....

I'm actually leaving my full-time flying job.

Not the reasons most would think either. I grew up on a farm, I still live down the road from my parents, and the last 5yrs I've been working part-time helping out as anyone in these situations normally do. Since the company I work for has use for part-time work, I'm actually staying on in that aspect.

Now instead of sitting in an office all day, I'll be actually doing something, and then if I can fly, I have the flexibility most of the year to be able to still fly professionally on the side. I'm also trying to supplement my flying by starting a recurrent training business in TBM's/Meridians/Malibu's, so look for me there too!

Both are my passion, and it's an interesting move for me. I feel very lucky, to be able to work with my family and hopefully continue our farm. It's not all doom and gloom out there folks!

I grew up on a ranch, so I understand the feelings. My uncle who runs the ranch indicated when I was there for Thanksgiving that he'd like me to take over when he retires in a few years. I may end up hanging up the headset and becoming a Cattleman, but still try to fly on the side. Good luck with your endeavors.

I read a statistic some time ago that most people change careers on average 3 times during a work life. The idea that we choose an occupation in teens and work a dreary career until we are 65 is not the case in our society. Pilots seem to come and go mostly because of the fickleness of aviation, but most people change careers because they have become bored and are not challenged. We see ourselves doing something based on our needs at a particular time and as times goes by those needs change. It is a wonderful thing that our society allows movement like it does and this helps keep enthusiasm high. Freedom in choosing careers is something associated with affluent, progressive cultures. You do not see it as much in say China, India, and the former Soviet Union.

It sounds like you are moving into a system that includes the best of both worlds!
Are you looking at becoming an independent businessman in the recurrent training program?
What a way to keep your hand in professional flying.
Best of luck ewfflyer!

USMCFLYR

More than a few airline pilots also ranch/farm...the two are not necessarily incompatible.