Not that my advise is worth much, seeing as I'm in my 20's, I don't have kids and I'm trying my darnedest to avoid working (submission to economic slavery).
Leaving all that aside, it sounds like you already have a business. You are self employed and your work has a location that is controlled by you. If the location is inconvenient, maybe there are things you can do to make it more "professional". If so, you have a chance to continue the business that you already have.
It seems like the main advantage to having an official shop is that it's easier to market. On the one hand it markets itself by simply being there, with the big sign and all. On the other you can tell people, "Go to this place. That is where my shop is." Granted, that first point is BIG, because people just passing by will see the shop.
However, it is very possible to be successful without the highly visible shop situation. You have the internet, you still have access to print media, and you have the most important thing: your talent which will be broadcasted via your work and the praise of your customers.
The other thing is, this economy is going through a drastic shift. In fact, this society is going through a drastic shift. I personally do not feel that it is collapsing into chaos, but rather collapsing in order to make space for a new paradigm, a new type of economy/society.
Now, how we want to perceive the emerging world is entirely up to each one of us as individuals. Here are some questions to answer for yourself.
Do you want there to be a place for what you do in the new paradigm?
Is it necessary that you profit from the work that you do?
Is it necessary that you contribute through the work that you do?
Well, these questions may not put any bread on your table, but by answering them for yourself, you may be able to answer the other questions you've asked on this forum. I, myself, am struggling for such answers, being also an artist and a musician and I suppose a sort of personal philosopher (which I believe we should all be, anyway). My most immediate solution is to help someone.
I could use some help and I'm sure I'll need more in the future, but right now I'm very committed to the realm of fulfillment through compassion. If I can assist in someone's needs, and specifically in a way that seems honorable to me, then I am contributing to an environment in which everyone's needs can be fulfilled, and thus my own needs will be fulfilled... eventually
I suppose your children and your man are that someone for you. Well, are there others, possibly even strangers that you are ready to give to, as well?
Maybe this is hogwash, but right now I'm thinking that if you make the effort to fulfill the world (which is you) then you in turn will be fulfilled.
Maybe this will help you find what you are looking for.....maybe,
