The current trend in the web industry is obviously ruby on rails and node.js. You may stick with both these and also client side technologies as well.But the basic thing you want to keep in mind that, "right tool for the right job" is the key.If you want to do some serious web applications, you may go with ror and node.js.Node is really handy and it is getting some respect as well.
First of all, I appreciate you are still willing to learn new things.That's the key.Knowledge is everywhere, not inside in a library room of some university.If you love to go with programming choose the right technology that may make you reach somewhere.Your confidence is the key.Just go ahead.
Good luck,oh in fact there is no luck.Only hard work bring you the result.I'm not the one to give you lectures, I'm just 24 running.Go ahead and ofcourse you should be taking care of your family. :)
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Good luck