Aribabybug,
I've also been walking the professional/amateur tightrope far a while and have just decided to enroll in the January 2010 class of the Hallmark Institute of Photography in Turners falls, Boston, MA.
Unlike an art's degree in photography, Hallmark is focused on you being able to start a career in photography, when you graduate from their 10 month program. And has classes on marketing and running your own business to this end. You might want to look into it @
Hallmark Institute of Photography / Photography School
I think that if you have the passion, which from your post it seems like you do, I'm all for people following their dreams. And that you will definitely be able to make your passion, your profession. How many people get to do what they love for a living?
Cheers,
Sahil