1. you have a nice aunt and uncle
2.the cybershot is ok for me (not as nice as yours)
3. I actually moved to Toronto and apprenticed at my uncles Graphics house. I met my wife there. I was in charge of a Giant enlarger for making stats. before computers all the type had to be shot like a picture and developed and then cut and pasted (lots of work) I used to have a pretty good portfolio but I gave away alot of pics that I did. The recession hit Ontario and I took a business course instead of graphics at a local community college

I do run my own business (landscaping) though and do fairly well.
I did ask someone if they had time to proof my story but I didn't get a reply. I have spent years working in the trades and my writing skill have turned to garbage
Harsh? life is harsh and there are a million kids taking graphics and all have the same dream as you.