Hi Mary! I too am an Okie born and bred, and am 40 years old. I have 7 children in all; 4 are still home. I just began nursing school also, in January. It took a lot of consideration to make such a major career change in the middle of my life; I'm sure you feel the same. :) I'd be interested in corresponding with you to see how things are going for you, since we have so much in common.