Dream Job?

I’ve always had this idea that I could be a photographer actually making money from my hobby. I’ve had stuff published, but only because I was one of the few people with UT pictures online in 1995 with basically no copyright — intentionally. Occasionally a publisher would email or call and ask if they could use a photo. I’d let them on the condition that they send me a copy of the product in which it was to be published. I’m now the proud owner of some extremely boring textbooks.
So, now I’m thinking I want to try to get some side jobs in photography. I’m trying to figure out how to best get my name out there. Some have recommended Craig’s List. I’ll probably also put my name on this magical list of people who do services at the church. I’m going to enter as many contests as I can as well just to see what happens. I’ve started uploading pictures at Texas Photo Forum for critiques and participating in discussions there. I don’t know if this is just another whim or I’m dillusional. We’ll see.
In the meantime, check out the five new portraits added today.