okay, update
Last week, I declined the offer for the job in St. Louis. It was a difficult decision to make, but the more we think about it, the more confident we are that this was the wisest decision. Right now, it's a little scary turning down a "sure thing" for something that's a bit more of a gamble. I'm still in the process of lining out the details, and it will be more of a challenge, but I believe it will pay off in the long run.
A lot happened the week after I was given the job offer in St. Louis. It's actually kind of amazing how everything suddenly started coming together. Long story short, I have the opportunity to get my foot in the door of a private practice in Springfield, MO (where I'm from, and where my family is). I will be working there three half days a week, initially as an independent contractor. Eventually, the goal is to build up to full time, after which I will have the opportunity to buy in. I really like the doctor and his wife, the office is really nice, and we seem to have the same goals/philosophy. It seems like a really great fit.
While I am building up to full time, I will be working at a relatively small retail chain--the optometrist there now will be leaving in the next couple of weeks. It is really an incredible opportunity for someone in my position because it is part time and extremely flexible. I may also fill in one day a week for a while at another chain just because it's good, reliable income.
Tek agrees that this was the best decision, but it is difficult for him since the job market here is MUUUUCH smaller than it is in STL. So please pray that he is able to find something that is in some way fulfilling even if it is just temporary until he finds THE job.