totally blindsided me. Now that I have more time for the hobby I unfortunately dont have the finances. Life's a bitch!

Hope things get better.

Truly saddend by your recent happenings. Been there, done that and it really is a bitch. But...hang in there, collect your senses and go after what you have wanted to do for years. Damn the money, just enjoy life!!! Worked for me

It's well known that the same thing happened to me almost a year ago, now.  Five, I truly know and feel your pain.  Seems like these damn CEO's just keep outsourcing and hiring cheaper foreign labor.  If it keeps up, we'll be joining "the third world" real quick.  I hope it picks up for you real soon.  Meanwhile, follow the advice you have been given and keep up your hobbying.  None of us should live for money, and you sure can't take it with you.

This had happen to me earlier this year. But it turned out for the better.  After years of working for a company who only gave pay raises to the CEO and his executive staff, not only did I have the chance to tell management to F&*K off with a smile, but I landed a new job at a competing company that pays a lot more money. Well into the 6 figures I must say in the IT field. Now is a good time to look. If you are a computer programmer let me know. I got a couple of good leads for you.  I hope you are up and running soon.

Try to find something better. I'm a self-employed independent contractor. I lose jobs every few years, usually I would find a something better.

Cheer up. Every apparent "misfortune" is an opportunity.

carried on a crumpled up piece of paper in my empty wallet (empty because all the ladies have the rest). It states:

"Everyting is today, exactly has it should be". Read what you want into that, but better days are ahead, I know that it is true.

Thanks to all for your support and advice. I have been down this road all too often myself (the creative design field is unstable). I take your advice too heart and look for any great bargains out there to keep hobbying with.....