Background and Personal History: Rachel was raised in Northern Virginia and started her working life following a typical corporate career path in finance and accounting, obtaining both a CPA license as well as an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Always the independent child, Rachel moved all the way across the country from her parents and siblings to San Diego immediately after getting married.

After having two children and continuing in the corporate rat race, Rachel began yearning for a simpler lifestyle more rooted in family and community. Following conversations with her husband over drinks one date-night, they agreed to search for a new home where they could build an addition or guest house for Rachel’s parents to come live permanently.

The property they bought is on an acre of land and has opened the door for some serious gardening and “lite homesteading” pursuits. In her blog, Amber Burst, Rachel enjoys sharing her journey toward multi-generational living, organic gardening, and other homesteading and DIY adventures as she tries to balance her corporate career with being a mom and striving to create a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle.

Current Projects: Rachel is organic gardening in raised beds, composting, and building an in-law suite addition.

Other Fun Facts: Rachel likes to balance her “crunchy” side with other interests, such as fashion, promoting women in business, and wine.