I don't have a lot to add because I've always been the one without the courage.

But I wanted you to know that my baby sister has lived the life you're talking about. Working as a professional musician, paying the bills as much as possible with restaurant jobs, working under the table, traveling overseas, homeless or sharing living quarters most of the time, and she too had responsibility for a cat during much of that time. About the time she turned 40 she "settled down," went to professional school, bought a house and hung out a shingle. She is my total hero. For other things too, but definitely for having the self-assurance to do whatever the heck she wants.

So I'm biased. But it CAN be done. I say go for it. You'll never have a better opportunity.