Absolutely go for the gusto. Get your name attached to the paper, if you indeed earned it. It's even more awesome if you can get your name listed as the primary

Absolutely go for the gusto. Get your name attached to the paper, if you indeed earned it. It's even more awesome if you can get your name listed as the primary. It's rare, but sometimes people without any degrees get published in reputable journals. If I were in your shoes, I'd do what I can to get published in something reputable and buy a bunch of printed copies. I'd then autograph them and hand them out like a rock star. When I was first published in a journal, I brought a copy of the journal and a couple of 'official' single article prints for my mother. One of them she hung on the fridge and even stuck a gold star sticker on it. Of course, buying a copy of the whole journal and single article reprints was a lot less expensive then. I'd still get physical copies, just to show them off. Best of luck and feel free to yell, both when you've got it published and if you have any questions about formatting or want a proofreader. If it encourages you to publish, and encourages people like you, I'll do it. I really do wish there were more citizen scientists, or at least people who lack the standard credentials, submitting their ideas, being interested, and being willing to share their insights and research. Either way, best of luck! You've made my night. I love stories like that. uninvolved@outlook.com (generic public email address)