Part of my dilemma is about more schooling. I loved school and love learning, so it isn't going back that is the question. Beloved has been very clear that if that is the direction I choose, he will support it entirely. The question is more of a discipline decision.
The first time through school, I had a time and a half switching majors and being frustrated. Medical study was fairly well kiboshed because I don't like math...or math doesn't like me...but I couldn't get through Calc II and Physics I and II. I completed degrees and certifications in environmental health, environmental technology, and brownfield remediation with passion. Returning to that area holds appeal. My disagreement with mathematics would present a problem for engineering careers, but I could head for geology, hydrology, haz mat, etc. There are a variety of career paths which could follow from there, ranging from EPA work to private consulting in septics and wells.
The second line of thought is to pursue psychology/sociology with an emphasis on human sexuality. I have found sex and "alternative lifestyle" choices to be fascinating. I am curious about PEOPLE and enjoy making individuals comfortable with their own skin. I'm no expert now, but that's what school is about. Getting certification through AASECT and listing on the KAP Directory would lend itself to something closer to the medical practice I once envisioned myself in.
Third possibility is that of teaching. I grimace at professorship because I don't want to hold to starred papers and research projects that extend into years, but Beloved pointed out I could look at being an instructor without those responsibilities. Or maybe consider something akin to a Montessori high school teacher. (I accept that I'm not great with small kids.) I have experience with curriculum development and teaching, ranging from pre-school to undergraduate.
A fourth daydream is much less formed, but has been persistent over the years. A successful coffee shop by the river and the new college campus downtown. One upscale enough that the morning commuters seek coffee and grab-n-eat options on their walk to the train, but comfortable enough that the college community congregates in the afternoon and evening. One that had familiar stand-bys and adventurous options. A corner with "leave one-take one" bookshelves, with booths for quiet conversations and 1-2 larger tables for group work, and a space for open mic sessions on Friday nights. I'm familiar with restaurant inspection and food safety through my degree in environmental health, although I would need to renew my HACCP certification.
The kids are becoming impatient with my considerations, so I guess that's where I should end this meandering. Those are the four possibilities that I return to, over and over and over. I'm amused by other things, but usually in a fleeting, "ooo, shiney!" fashion. I'd love comments from folks, either "how you see pixie" or "my experience in the field is" light.
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