One never know which way the road will take you, the journey is always full of decisions and question marks.  Why are decisions so hard to make anyway?  This is probably off topic but it certainly does impact family life having a scientific career. The job market just isn't stable anymore and the days of being in one job- one place are pretty much over.  This time I want to approach things in a scientific manner- go off my gut. 

According to Monster.com:

• Chemists will see 1.1 percent job growth in coming years, which is slightly faster than the 0.7 percent national average.   Not exactly stellar growth but it is forward not backward. 

Another glaring fact is that unless retooling or re-education happens it will be hard to keep up with current trends - for example:

•  Growth of genetics/genomics (NGS)

As the emphasis moves ever-more-tangibly towards a personalized medicine treatment paradigm, expect to see an increase in demand for candidates with a combination of life science and data science education and skills.

At this point in time - I am at a crossroads- not ready to retire although that sounds wonderful, the fact of the matter is- that certainly isn't reality.  So what's next?   Follow the passion- not the money or salary- that is where it needs to be to have a future with stability in mind.