Well!!!
I don't mean to sound condescending at all, but your RFP (plea!) is probably the best, well written, and transparent piece I have seen. The quality of writing is so pleasing, that I feel that what I can best offer you is this, Fresh Eyes.
I find myself resonating with your message - do what you want to do, suggesting that you break it into 'chewable chunks' and enjoy the ride! My own philosophy has long been, that you MUST have a clear vision of where you want to be. If you do not have that vision, you will never recognize those minute opportunities as they come along.
I had a vision years and years ago, and I am still working on it, but I am 1) working from home on jobs I want to do 2) living on the water 3) be in a somewhat secluded environment surrounded by nature. 4) raise children who love me in spite of the House Rules, 5) marry a boy who will love me forever. 6) Always live in a house with a veranda, 7) share whatever I can.
I have a home on a lake in the middle of 160 acres of mixed hardwood/softwood trees, rolling terrain and granite and limestone rock faces. I 'own' a babbling brook with a waterfall, and due to grandfather land clauses, own several islands! We are restoring an abandoned 160+ year old farmhouse, the veranda was the first thing added. Then the gardens, chickens and beehives. Married my boy - 42 years ago (when I was 17 - when you know, you know!), 3 children who visit often, and a grandson ..... Ah, Wendy