If you're not a serious procrastinator, online schooling might be an option. I have done online all through college and I love it. I take one or two classes a quarter with a short break in between and I don't feel too overwhelmed by the workload, even on top of a full time job. Also, there are several resources provided on my school's website that help with writing skills.

As for returning to school at 42... my stepmother is getting close to graduation and she's nearly 50. It's never too late.