Yeah, it's goddamned expensive.  That's why I'm going with the guys that pay me to fly-the Airforce.  If I can't go with them, I'll be leeching off of mom and dad for the rest of my life

When I started out I had some dreams, too; though I might someday own a certified aircraft;  even thought I'd make a stab at flying professionally, but it doesn't look good now for me. But there are still options for the budget-restricted. As far as ownership goes, a kit aircraft or maybe an ultralight is not out of the question for most regular working stiffs.
Can't tell you much about the Recreational ticket; try the FAA's website.
As for a career, my current plan is to get my instrument, commercial, and CFI ratings at least by the time I retire... CFIs who aren't going anywhere and have lots of free time are in a good position to find work. Might be a nice way to supplement what promises to be a very meager post-retirement income. There's a lot more to the flying world than flying heavies for money or owning an expensive aircraft to fly for pleasure...

If it's just something you really want to do, don't worry about how long it'll take. If your fortunes change and you can make more out of it, great. But there sure as hell ain't no cheap shortcut.
One thing I definitely plan on doing is: once I get going again, I'm going to try to get a friend to come along on at least every other flight, to help w/ the cost. You know, you can even do this on training flights, if you've got enough seats and the CFI is OK with it...
  And entering a partnership situation is becoming an increasingly popular way to own an airplane- that's something I intend to look into later, for sure. Still not cheap, and not as sweet as having your own plane, but it beats renting.

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First of all; congratulations on your solo! You've entered a much bigger world.

My advice to you is this: You've started with gliders - stick with them for a while. Learn to fly - really fly - before switching to something with that big noisy grinding windmill out front. In the long run it makes you a much better pilot. It also gives you an 'in':
Once you decide to get your powered permit; you'll have a good source of cheap hours: flying tow for your soaring club. Hours - as you must know well - are critical when looking for a flying job; as is the experience of working in aviation; whether you get paid for it or not.

If it's a dream, that's good - dreams can inspire. But it's not a fantasy; it's a very real possibility if you're willing to put in the time and effort.

Cheers! 

Air Force Academy is the way to go! Otherwise, join your ANG.

How many people become pilots in the airforce???

How many enter to become a pilot???

I know a guy who got to go the AF acadamy through some kind of "air scouts" type of program. His girlfreind (and future wife) then talked him out of a flying career . It upsets me just to think about it.