Where to go from here?

Time to evaluate once again. I am a Novell 4.x CNE (studying for 5.x update test) and have 3 tests completed toward MCSE. I have worked the past year as backup to a Microsoft SQL DBA, picking up more skills.

The problem is I am working for a VERY small company who just can’t seem
to afford to pay me very much.

I want to make more money, without selling my soul. Particularly, I would
like to avoid:

Lots of travel.
Lots of overtime.

Is there such a setting? Should I be considering going independent as a contractor? Should I work for a bigger VAR? I am concerned if I get a job back in the corporate world, my skills will start to stagnate.

Opinions?