Goodbye 2025, and hello 2026! I’m so happy to be back and reconnecting with you all. Last year was truly a reset year for me personally, professionally, emotionally, and spiritually. It was a year of change, reflection, and growth, and while it wasn’t always easy, it was deeply necessary. Especially during a time when the state of our country has felt heavy and disheartening to witness. Navigating life amid so much uncertainty and turmoil has been challenging, but it also pushed me to slow down, reassess what truly matters, and reconnect with myself on a deeper level.
2025 was a complete 180-degree shift in my life. So many events unfolded that changed my path, and in hindsight, every change helped shape me into a stronger and more grounded version of myself. My wife and I moved to Los Angeles in the spring of 2025, and that decision alone transformed our lives in ways we never imagined. Neither of us had lived so far from our family and friends before, and in many ways, we had to start over. New careers, new routines, and rebuilding our sense of community (which we’re still navigating).
Currently, I’m studying for my California real estate license and plan to complete by this upcoming spring. Some of you may know that I spent six years working as a real estate broker in Chicago. Real estate has always been a true passion of mine, alongside plants, of course, and creating spaces that feel like home. I began studying for the California exam towards the end of last fall, and while California is known for having one of the most challenging real estate exams, I feel confident. My prior experience in the Chicago market, combined with my disciplined studying, has me fully prepared to pass my exam on my first attempt.
Los Angeles has also brought many emotional and spiritual lessons. To be completely transparent, I never imagined myself living here, and I wasn’t ready to leave Chicago. Although Atlanta will always be home, Chicago became my home the moment I first visited. I still return often to see friends, to reset, and to reconnect with a city that still holds so much of my heart.
That said, I’m looking forward to what this next chapter brings. I plan to host more plant events this year and I am excited to explore what LA has to offer. Life in your 30s can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges, especially when it comes to building community from the ground up in a new city. That’s why I’m deeply committed to creating in-person experiences. My goal has always been to connect people, foster community, and help cultivate meaningful friendships, both within and beyond the plant world. I’m truly looking forward to meeting and connecting with more people who share a love for plants, growth, and intentional living.
Thank you for your patience during my hiatus. I’m back, more grounded than ever, and excited for what’s ahead. I may not know exactly where this journey will take me, but I’m embracing it fully and I hope you’ll continue along for the ride. I would love for you to stay connected with me beyond the blog. Be sure to follow along on social media @eyeloveplantlyfe for plant events, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments. You can also check out my YouTube channel for more personal content, vlogs, and day-in-the-life videos where I share more of my journey beyond plants. Thank you so much for being here and supporting Eye Love Plant Lyfe. I truly couldn’t do this without you. Until next time, take care of yourself and your plants 💚
With love,
Bryana
Founder, Eye Love Plant Lyfe