I need advice from kind people who have nursing careers.?

I have two little children 2 and 5 years old. I almost finished my first year in a 5 years journey to get my nursing degree. I was thinking maybe I go to a 12 month program, get a vocational nurse certificate and then finish my bachelor while working. My husband is a good man but our life is getting harder with him losing his job next month. My question is if I do become a vocational nurse how much will I be paid in San Bernardino CA, will I be able to find a job in a hospital? Is it hard to finish my education while working? should I just stick to my plans for a bachelor degree and live on student loans? Any advice is apreciated.