Where I Started

One of the worst things someone can say to me is, “You’ll never be able to do that.”

The moment I hear it, my brain responds with: challenge accepted.
Game on. Bet, bro.
(As my students would say… I think. I’m still learning how to use that phrase.)

Why wouldn’t I be able to buy land for a farm?
Why can’t I start a small business selling duck eggs, flowers, and my art?

I’m a teacher. I come from a broken home. I didn’t grow up with money. I have a child with a rare medical condition — which is expensive. I paid (and am still paying for) both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I have a husband who has experienced two heart failures.

In short, I’m swimming in debt.

And yet, I still believe there’s another way to live.

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Why Debt Freedom Matters to Me

At its core, this journey is about removing stress.

I don’t want to live paycheck to paycheck forever. I want land where I can raise my children — and maybe one day my grandchildren. I want space to raise ducks, grow flowers, and create a quiet refuge from the chaos of city life and a demanding career.

I want a safe and secure retirement.

I can’t build that life while buried under debt.

What frustrates me most is this: I work hard. I give a lot. And yet debt makes me feel held back — like no matter how much effort I put in, I can’t move forward the way I want to.

Debt freedom isn’t just about money.
It’s about possibility.

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How Art, Gardening, and Ducks Fit Into the Journey

Art, gardening, and ducks are where I go when I need peace.

They are my joy. My escape. My reminder to slow down.

Instead of seeing them as distractions or “extras,” I’ve realized they’re actually my foundation. These are the things that ground me — so why not build my life from there?

A slower life. A more intentional one.
One rooted in creativity, growth, and care.

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What You Can Expect Here

If you follow along, you’ll see me create, grow, and work toward becoming debt-free — in real time.

I’m at the beginning of this journey. There will be progress, setbacks, learning curves, and plenty of moments where I figure things out as I go. I’ll share it honestly, with humor when I can, and transparency always.

My hope is that you’ll find encouragement here — and maybe the courage to believe that your “impossible” life might be possible too.

Welcome to Bloom & Feather.
This is my journey from debt to ducks.