What Falling Leaves Can Teach Us About Letting Go

Every autumn, trees put on one of nature’s greatest shows. Leaves shift from green to brilliant gold, orange, and red before drifting quietly to the ground. It can look like the tree is dying, but the opposite is true. Letting go of its leaves is exactly how a tree survives the long winter ahead.

The color change is pure chemistry. All summer long, leaves are packed with chlorophyll, the green pigment that turns sunlight into food. As the days grow shorter and cooler, the tree stops making chlorophyll and the green fades away. That reveals the yellows and oranges that were hidden underneath all along, while crisp nights and sunny days help create those deep, fiery reds.

Then comes the most important step of all. The tree grows a thin layer of cells at the base of each leaf, gently sealing it off until it lets go and falls.

Dropping its leaves protects the tree from losing precious water through the cold, dry months and keeps heavy snow from snapping bare branches. What looks like loss, is really careful preparation.

There is a quiet lesson in that. Holding on to everything, all the time, is not the same as strength. Sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is release what we no longer need and trust that the next season will come.

The trees do it every single year. And every spring, they come back greener than before.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

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Our Featured Listings

If you are searching for a Realtor to help you list or buy a home, we encourage you to give us a call to see if we are the “right” agent for you.  

Take a look at our Featured Listings below:

If you would like to search the Houston MLS system for your next property, click on the Home button on the top menu bar to navigate the main BrunerTeam website.

Note: We are taking new listings all of the time. 

NEW 3-D Interactive Floorplans now available via:

COMING SOON LISTINGS:

• 16217 Capri in Jersey Village – City of Jersey Village (77040)

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 3131 Cummins #54 in Greenway Plaza – (77027) – FOR LEASE –  PRICE REDUCED TO $1,125  – www.har.com/91882034 – ***ALL BILLS PAID*** REMARKABLE 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo located in the Heart of Greenway Plaza w/ ALL UTILITIES PAID including basic cable. Located in a GATED community. 1-assigned parking place in underground parking garage. Unit is located on the 2nd floor w/ balcony overlooking courtyard. UPDATED CONDO w/ sizeable living area w/ engineered wood floors & large storage closet. Kitchen w/ granite countertop, electric range, built-in microwave, dishwasher, & pantry. Refrigerator included. Spacious primary bedroom w/ lighted, walk-in closet. Bath w/ single sink in granite vanity & tub w/ tiled shower. Complex has swimming pool & large laundry facility. Just blocks away from Central Market & Highland Village. *Pets considered on case-by-case. NO SMOKING. Guest parking on street. IDEAL LOCATION FOR COMMUTERS w/ easy access to I-10, Hwy 59, & 610 Loop. Easy drive to Downtown, The Galleria, & Medical Center. Close to shopping, restaurants, & more! *CONDO OCCUPIED. READY FOR MOVE-IN 10/1/26!*. YouTube Video
• 14618 N. Eldridge Parkway in Hunterwood Forest – (77070) – FOR SALE – PRICE REDUCED TO $384,500  – www.har.com/13294082 – 2-story, 3280sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2-car garage. *TIMELESS CLASSIC* Longtime owners selling beloved, beautifully maintained French-style home w/ 4 bdrms, 3.5 baths, 2-car det garage in the heart of Hunterwood. Circular driveway provides abundant off-street parking. Roof (2015); Whole-house PEX re-pipe (2016); 2 zoned HVAC systems; Water heater (2025). Designed for the way families truly live. Elegant curved staircase. Private study. Kitchen w/ granite, glass cooktop, convec oven, under-cab lighting, & ample cabinetry. Spacious Family Rm w/ gas log FP & view of backyard. Formal dining or 2nd study. 1st flr Owner’s retreat w/ 2 sinks, garden tub, shower, & 2 walk-in closets. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 3 sizeable bdrms, 2 full baths. Bdrm #2 could be a 2nd primary or guest suite w/ ensuite bath. Backyard retreat w/ large covered patio, lush landscaping, sprinklers, & fully fenced backyard. Never flooded. Neighborhood pool, tennis, & more. Close to shopping, restaurants, & schools. Ready for its next chapter. Perhaps that chapter begins with you.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
• 15902 Jersey Dr in Jersey Village – (77040) – FOR SALE – $384,900  – www.har.com/5255719 – 1-story, 2240sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage. *READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN*** Modern 1-story that has been elevated up out of the 100-yr flood plain w/ a HUGE backyard. Roof (2017); Gutter covers (2021), Double pane windows; PEX plumbing (2016); AC 16-SEER 4-ton (2017); R-22 blown insulation; Hardie siding; Ext & Int paint (2020); Engineered wood & Travertine. SPACIOUS family rm w/ floor-to-ceiling brick FP (gas/wood), vaulted ceiling, wet bar, & view of backyard. Formal dining. AMPLE NATURAL LIGHT. Island kitchen w/ granite, gas cooktop, convection oven, DW, MW & Refrigerator. Primary Suite w/ high ceiling, ensuite bath w/ 2 sinks, tiled walk-in shower, & 2 walk-in closets. Split bdrm plan. 3 secondary bdrms w/ carpet (2026). Guest bath w/ granite & tub/shower combo. 2-car garage w/ TALL ceiling for lift or add’l storage. POOL-SIZE BACKYARD! Walking distance to Carol Fox Park. IDEAL LOCATION FOR COMMUTERS w/ easy access to Hwy 290 & Bltwy 8. Enjoy nearby shopping, restaurants, schools, golf course. No HOA or MUD. JVPD & JVFD.  / YouTube Video
• 21018 Shelbyville in Long Meadow Farms – (77407) – FOR SALE – $429,900  – www.har.com/4150475 – 2-story, 2766sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2-car garage. *MOVE-IN READY* Original homeowners selling their beloved home. Built by Highland Homes. Environments for Living energy features: Double pane windows; Radiant barrier in the attic; Blown insulation; 2-zoned HVAC systems (1st & 2nd flrs) w/ programmable thermostats. Roof & gutters (2014). 2 water heaters. Rainsoft water softener. Hunter sprinkler sys (6-zones). Complete interior paint 2026 (walls, ceilings, trim & doors). Study w/ French doors w/ engineered wood flrs. Formal dining. Island kitchen w/ wide breakfast bar, espresso bean cabinets, granite, gas cooktop, oven, MW (2026), DW (2026), 2 pantries. Family Rm w/ floor-to-ceiling stone FP (gas/wood), wall of windows overlooking covered patio & backyard. Gorgeous Travertine tile flrs. 1st flr Primary Suite w/ 2 sinks, sep shower & garden tub, large WIC. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 3 sizeable bdrms w/ generous WIC, & 2 full baths. Ideal location for commuters w/ easy access to 99-Grand Pkwy. Close to shopping, restaurants, schools, & more! Homes.com 3-D Floorplan / YouTube Video
• 16217 Lakeview in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE – PRICE REDUCED TO $429,999  – www.har.com/50682931 – 2-story, 2518sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. *CHARMING* Longtime owners of 23yrs selling their beloved home. Amenities: Roof (2016); Double pane windows (2008); Whole-house generator (2011); High-efficiency HVAC (AC 2009 & heater 2022); Blown insulation; Replaced w/ copper plumbing (95%); Hardie board siding on house; Garage door (2020); Exterior workshop or shed w/ electric, insulation, window AC; Ring doorbell & camera sys; & MORE. Wood-like tile flrs in formal living & dining. Kitchen w/ Silestone, under-cab lighting, double convection ovens (2011), DW (2023), & lighted pantry. Spacious family rm w/ wood-burning brick FP w/ gas & wall of windows. 1st flr primary w/ remodeled bath w/ 2 vanities, 2 walk-in closets, & shower (2007). Utility W&D incl. 2nd flr: 3 bdrms, generous closets, & updated bath (2006). Det 2-car garage + carport (GREAT COVERED PATIO &/OR PICKUP TRUCK PARKING!) Pool-sized backyard w/ mature shade trees. Sprinkler sys. Natural gas grill.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
• 16405 Smith St in Jersey Village – (77040) – FOR SALE – PRICE REDUCED TO $468,000  – www.har.com/21143098 – 2-story, 3294sqft home with 3 or 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2-car garage. *REMARKABLE* Traditional English Tudor-style home nestled beneath mature shade trees on a quiet street in the heart of Jersey Village. NEVER FLOODED. Roof (2023); brick & Hardie exterior; 3-zoned HVACs; copper piping; tile & wood laminate (NO carpet). Versatile floorplan offers SPACIOUS 1st flr Game Rm w/ spiral staircase leading to loft & private Study—ideal for a home office or hobbies. 1st flr Primary Bdrm w/ 2 closets & remodeled spa bath (2021) w/ dual sinks, standalone tub & walk-in shower. Family Rm w/ floor-to-ceiling brick gas log FP, vaulted beamed ceiling, & windows overlooking yard. Dining Rm w/ wet bar. Kitchen w/ hardwood cabinetry & quartz. 2nd flr: 2 large bdrms w/ walk-in closets, EACH w/ its own updated ensuite bath (Baths #2 & #3). “Flex” Space could easily become Bdrm #4. Utility w/ gas & elec conn. Covered pergola overlooks fenced backyard. Sprinklers. Det 2-car garage.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan  / YouTube Video
• 15310 Philippine in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE – PRICE REDUCED TO $497,500  – www.har.com/29955652 – 1-story with 2655sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Gorgeous 1-story ELEVATED OUT OF THE 100-YR FLOOD PLAIN IN 2025 + an exceptional 492-SF BONUS FLEX SPACE behind 2-car garage! More than a gameroom, this sep space offers dedicated HVAC, water heater, 1/2 bath, & plumbing for future FULL BATH—remarkable potential for home office, gym, studio, gameroom or future sep quarters. MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS: Roof & gutters (2024); high-efficiency 16-SEER HVAC (2019); Ace Duraflow epoxy-coated pipes (2007); updated kitchen & 2 full baths (2016); exterior paint (2025); re-graded yard, new backyard sod & sprinkler sys (2025). Circular drive + iron driveway gate for ample parking. Inside, island kitchen w/ granite, under-cab lighting, abundant cabinetry, 2 pantries & refrigerator. Formal living & dining. SPACIOUS family rm w/ vaulted ceiling & stacked-stone gas/wood FP. Primary Retreat w/ 2 sinks, oversized shower, jetted tub & 2 closets. GENEROUS STORAGE! Study/Bdrm #4 w/ French doors. Easy access to 290/Bltwy 8. Walk to JVHS & Post Elem.   Homes.com 3-D Floorplan  /  YouTube Video
• 7707 Stone Arbor in Greatwood – (77479) – FOR SALE – $649,900  – www.har.com/36641001 – 2-story, 3501sqft, home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. *GORGEOUS HOME in the heart of GREATWOOD* Relax in private backyard oasis w/ heated pool & spa w/ Pebbletec finish, flagstone waterfalls, Travertine deck, outdoor kitchen w/ gas grill & copper awning. Step into this timeless classic w/ elegant curved staircase, formal living & dining rms. Matte-finished wood flrs. Island kitchen w/ granite, double ovens, gas cooktop, LARGE pantry. Family rm w/ gas log FP & built-ins. Study w/ French doors OR 4th Bdrm w/ full bath (1st flr). 2nd flr Primary Suite w/ exec bath w/ 2 sinks, sep shower, jetted tub, & 2 walk-in closets. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 2 secondary bdrms w/ Jack & Jill bath. Amenities: Roof (2020); Energy efficient double pane windows; LED lighting & ceiling fans (2023), fiberglass blown insulation, 2-zoned HVACs (2nd flr unit: compressor & furnace 2022 / evaporator coil 2024); Smart thermostats; Water heaters (2023 & 2025); Woven cloth shades, tray ceilings, crown molding. Oversized insulated garage. Full sprinkler system. YouTube Video
• 826 Ivory Ridge in Green Trails – (77094) – FOR SALE – $678,500  – www.har.com/17620058 – 2-story, 3557sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. *STUNNING HOME* *AMAZING LOCATION* Timeless classic built by Trendmaker in the heart of Green Trails. Roof (2015); 2 zoned HVACs; Brick & Hardie; Gutters; Double pane windows; Int paint (2026); LVP flooring throughout much of 1st floor & staircase (2026); Carpet (2026); Updated lighting & ceiling fans. Refinished leaded glass door (2026). Elegant foyer w/ soaring ceiling & sweeping staircase. Study w/ French doors. Formal dining. Island kitchen w/ quartz (2026), downdraft gas stovetop, oven (2026), MW (2026), freshly painted cabinets (2026). Spacious family rm w/ gas log FP & wall of windows. 1st flr primary suite w/ sitting area w/ FP. Updated Primary bath: 2 vanities w/ quartz (2026), jetted tub w/ new tilework (2026), oversized tiled walk-in shower w/ glass door (2026), & large WIC. 2nd flr: Gmrm, 3 sizeable bdrms, generous closets, & 2 full baths. Covered patio & freestanding wooden pergola – great for entertaining. Full sprinkler sys. 3-car det garage w/ expanded drive. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan / YouTube Video

SEPTEMBER SOLDS:

• 312 Travis St in Downtown Richmond – (77469) – FOR SALE – $155,000 – www.har.com/10014370 – Charming 1-story with 851sqft, 3 bedrooms, 1-bath home located only 6-blocks from historic downtown Richmond. Great opportunity for a new buyer to personalize and customize to make it their own OR investor to use as an rental property. Amenities: Roof (2017), re-pied w/ PEX plumbing (2020), central heating & air via a 13-SEER heat pump w/ electric backup (2014), electrical panel (2014), sewer line (2017), walk-in shower (2021), tile flooring throughout (2009), interior paint (2026). Kitchen w/ tile countertops, gas range, microwave, & refrigerator. Ceramic tile throughout is easy to maintain. 3 bedrooms w/ ceiling fans & lots of natural light. Bath w/ walk-in shower. Ample parking on the side of the house. 100-yr old oak tree canopies the backyard. 10x8ft storage shed is perfect for securing lawn equipment, work tools, or creating a workshop. Home’s exterior is brick & wood. Enjoy no HOA. Close to fire dept, James Long Elementary, daycare, churches, & so much more. Low tax rate: 2.19.   Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video
  

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Open House schedule for October:

SAT 10/3 – 826 Ivory Ridge in Green Trails (Katy – 77094) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Green Trails (Katy) 

SUN 10/4 – 21018 Shelbyville in Long Meadow Farms (Richmond – 77407) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Long Meadow Farms (Richmond) 

SAT 10/10 – 14618 N. Eldridge Parkway in Hunterwood (Cypress North – 77070) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Hunterwood Forest (Cypress North)

SAT 10/17 – Jersey Village (77040) Collaborative Open House: 15902 Jersey Dr, 16217 Lakeview, 16405 Smith St, 15310 Philippine, & 16217 Capri – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in the City of Jersey Village (77040).  

Date To Be Determined – 7707 Stone Arbor in Greatwood (Sugar Land – 77479) Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Greatwood (Sugar Land)  

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Get Your Yard Ready For Winter

Cooler weather is the signal to give your yard a little attention before the first hard frost arrives. A few hours of work this month can protect your lawn, plants, and trees through the cold season and give everything a healthy head start next spring.

Start with the leaves. A thin scattering is fine, but a thick, wet blanket can smother your grass and invite mold and disease. Rake or mow them up and consider shredding them into free mulch for your garden beds instead of bagging them.

Give the lawn one last mow and a fall feeding. Grass roots keep growing even after the blades stop, so a fall fertilizer helps them store energy for a thicker, greener lawn once the weather warms again.

Protect tender plants and young trees by spreading a few inches of mulch around the base, keeping it slightly away from the trunk itself. Drain and store your garden hoses, shut off outdoor water lines, and cover or put away spigots so they don’t freeze and burst when the temperature drops.

Finally, clean your gutters once most of the leaves have come down. Clogged gutters can send water where you don’t want it, and in freezing weather that can mean ice dams, leaks, and expensive repairs. A little effort now means far fewer headaches when winter truly settles in.

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Small Acts, Big Impact

The fourth Saturday of October is Make A Difference Day, one of the largest days of volunteering in the country. It is a yearly reminder that helping others does not require grand gestures. Small, steady acts of kindness are often the ones that matter most.

You don’t need a special day on the calendar to pitch in. Check on an elderly neighbor, rake a few extra yards, donate to a local food bank as the holidays approach, or simply offer a ride to someone who needs one. Little things add up in ways we rarely get to see.

Giving back is good for you, too. Research shows that helping others can lower stress, lift your mood, and build a stronger sense of connection to the people around you. This fall, consider making one small difference. You may find it comes back to you many times over.

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October 2026 Happenings In Houston

Take a look at some events and activities Houston offer. Take a look at The Hobby Center; Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion; The Alley Theater; Toyota Center, Theater Under The Stars; Houston Zoo; Houston Symphony; Houston Ballet, Miller Outdoor Theater; Wortham Theater; Jones Hall;  N.A.S.A & Space Center Houston; Art Car Museum; Arboretum & Nature Center; Natural Science Museum; Kemah Boardwalk; & SO MUCH MORE! Take a look at some of the events in the links below for you, your family, & friends to enjoy in Houston & the surrounding areas:

   Southern Living: 20 Best Things To Do In Houston

Visit Houston: October Events in Houston 2026

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in October

Kids Out and About.com: October activities in & around Houston

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

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Texas Renaissance Festival 

“Huzzah and welcome to the Texas Renaissance Festival, a grand spectacle that transports visitors to an era of chivalry, merriment, and enchantment. Nestled in the heart of Texas, we are the largest and most acclaimed Renaissance-themed attraction in the United States. Whether one is donned in period garb or simply a curious spectator in one’s favorite tee shirt and jeans, the Texas Renaissance Festival promises an unforgettable journey into the magic and splendor of the Renaissance era.”

2026 Dates: Weekends, October 10^th through November 29^th and Thanksgiving Friday.

For more info: Texas Renaissance Festival 2026

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Why Spiders Move Indoors In Fall

If you have noticed more spiders around the house lately, you are not imagining things. Fall is peak spider season. As temperatures drop, many spiders seek out warmer, sheltered spots, and males become far more active as they wander in search of a mate.

The good news is that most household spiders are harmless, and they are actually helpful. They quietly hunt the flies, mosquitoes, and other insects you would rather not share your home with. In many ways, a spider or two is a sign your home has fewer other pests.

If you would still rather keep them outside, seal gaps around doors and windows, keep basements and closets free of clutter, and clear away webs when you spot them. Dimming bright outdoor lights at night helps too, since those lights attract the very insects, spiders come looking for.

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Make Halloween Safe And Fun For Everyone

Halloween lands on a Saturday this year, which means more trick-or-treaters, more foot traffic, and a great chance to connect with the families in your neighborhood. A few simple steps keep the night fun and safe for everyone.

If you are handing out treats, keep your walkway well-lit and clear of hoses, cords, and decorations that could trip a child in a flowing costume. A lit porch is the universal sign that trick-or-treaters are welcome at your door.

Drivers should slow down and stay especially alert between about 5:30 and 9:30 p.m., when excited kids may dart out between parked cars. If your own children are heading out, send them with a flashlight or glow sticks, remind them to stick to sidewalks, and add a strip of reflective tape to darker costumes.

Not into trick-or-treating? Consider a trunk-or-treat in a local parking lot, a cozy costume night in, or simply leaving the porch light on to greet neighbors. However you celebrate, Halloween is one of the easiest nights of the year to meet the people right next door.

 

10+ Frighteningly Fun Houston Halloween Events

From Secret Houston: “From chilling Candlelight concerts, to haunted houses, bewitching bars, and more, here are the best Halloween events in Houston 2026!”

For more go to:  10+ Frighteningly Fun Houston Halloween Events

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Monthly Recipe: Pumpkin-Spice Bundt Cake with Brown Sugar Icing and Candied Pecans

From Southern Living, “Candied pecans and a rich, buttery icing turn this simple pumpkin Bundt cake into a grande finale dessert. This moist pumpkin cake is elevated by brown sugar, pumpkin spice, the light tang of buttermilk, and a nutty crunch of toasted pecans flecked throughout. A brown sugar icing is smooth and rich, with notes of molasses and caramel that complement the cake’s fall flavors, and candied pecans add crunch as an eye-catching garnish.

For the smoothest texture and picture-perfect drips, make sure the icing is still warm when you spoon it over the pumpkin-spice. Pick out your favorite cake stand, and put this beautiful Bundt cake on display at your next party. The crown of decadent icing and candied pecans will ensure that no one will be able to resist having a slice.”

For more and the recipe go to:  Pumpkin-Spice Bundt Cake with Brown Sugar Icing

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Lower Your Heating Bill This Winter

Heating is one of the biggest household expenses once the temperature drops. The good news is that shrinking your bill does not require a major investment. A handful of small habits can keep you comfortable and keep more money in your pocket all season long.

Seal the leaks. Warm air escapes through gaps around doors, windows, and outlets. Inexpensive weatherstripping and caulk can cut drafts dramatically and often pay for themselves within a single winter.

Let the sun help. Open the curtains on south-facing windows during the day to soak up free warmth, then close them at night to hold the heat inside.

Turn it down while you sleep. Lowering the thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can noticeably reduce heating costs. A programmable or smart thermostat handles it for you automatically.

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Is Your Home Ready For Cold And Flu Season?

As the weather cools and everyone spends more time indoors, germs have an easier time spreading from person to person. A cleaner, healthier home won’t stop every sniffle, but it can lower the odds and help everyone in the house feel their best.

Indoor air also gets drier and staler in winter, which can irritate your nose and throat and make it easier for viruses to take hold. A few simple habits make a real difference:

• Wash hands often and keep hand soap stocked at every sink
• Disinfect high-touch spots like doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and phones
• Run a humidifier to keep indoor air from getting too dry
• Change or clean your HVAC filter to trap dust and allergens
• Open windows for a few minutes on milder days to refresh the air
• Wash bedding and towels in hot water more often during peak season

A little routine care goes a long way. Keeping your home clean and your air comfortable can help your whole household breathe easier and bounce back faster all winter long.

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  Houston Housing Market Review

Multiple Listing Service of the Houston Association of REALTORS® includes residential properties and new homes listed by 50,000 REALTORS®

MORE LISTINGS, STEADY DEMAND ACROSS HOUSTON IN JULY

For a DETAILED review from the Houston Association of Realtors, take a look at their comprehensive review posted at https://www.har.com/content/department/mls

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SL: This Is The 1 Southern Sporting Event Worth Booking A Flight For This Fall

From Southern Living, “Get ready to rev your engines.

Fall in the South usually means sports dominate the weekend. Whether it’s legendary college football rivalries or NFL games with storied pre-game traditions, football usually reigns supreme. But this fall, there’s one Southern sporting event worth building an entire trip around: Formula 1. Yes, the same Formula 1 from Netflix’s hit series Drive to Survive. This October, 22 of the world’s best drivers will race at speeds over 200 miles per hour around The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas. 

While you could watch the race at home, there’s nothing like being at an F1 race in person. From the electric atmosphere around the circuit and pop-up activations around the city to high-speed racing and post-race concerts, there’s plenty of fun to be had at this year’s Formula 1 MSC Cruises United States Grand Prix. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about planning a weekend at the United States Grand Prix, plus how to make a long weekend trip out of the event. ” 

For more go to: Formula 1 in Texas

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The Quiet Power Of Gratitude

As the year winds toward the holidays, it is easy to get swept up in everything still left to do. But research keeps pointing to one simple habit with outsized benefits: gratitude. Taking a moment to notice what is going well can genuinely improve your mood, your sleep, and even your health.

Studies have found that people who regularly reflect on what they are thankful for report lower stress, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of overall happiness. The effect does not require anything grand. A short note, a kind word, or a quiet moment of appreciation is often enough.

Part of what makes gratitude so powerful is that it shifts our attention. Instead of focusing on what is missing, we notice what is already here: the people, comforts, and small everyday moments that are so easy to overlook.

This season, consider making it a habit. Thank someone who helped you, jot down a few good things at the end of the day, or simply pause to appreciate a quiet morning. It costs nothing, takes seconds, and tends to give far more back than you put in.

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Why Fall Can Be A Smart Time To Make A Move

Spring may get all the attention, but fall is quietly one of the best seasons to buy or sell a home. As the busy summer rush fades, the market cools just enough to work in your favor; whether you are listing your current home or shopping for the next one.

For sellers, fall buyers tend to be serious. The families racing to move before the school year are gone, and the people still looking are often motivated to close before the holidays and winter weather arrive. Fewer homes on the market can also mean less competition and more attention on yours.

For buyers, cooler months often bring cooler prices. Homes that lingered through summer may see price cuts, and sellers are frequently more willing to negotiate. With less bidding-war pressure, you have more room to think clearly and make a confident decision.

If a move has been on your mind, it may be worth exploring now rather than waiting for spring.      

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SL: 7 Can’t-Miss Texas Food Festivals Happening This Fall

From Southern Living, “During the fall months, when Texas’ heat dips enough that spending time outdoors is finally comfortable, every corner of the state throws a party centered around great food. From El Paso to Houston, and the Hill Country to Dallas, this year’s festivals bring together the best chefs, winemakers, and pitmasters who make Texas food worth planning a weekend around. Loosen your belt and pick a destination, because these food festivals deserve a spot on your fall calendar.”

For more go to:  Texas Fall Food Festivals

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Easy Ways To Warm Up Your Home This Fall

When the weather turns crisp, there is nothing better than a home that feels warm and welcoming. The good news is that creating that cozy feeling does not require a renovation or a big budget; just a few thoughtful touches.

Start with texture. Swapping in heavier throw blankets, soft pillows, and a warm area rug instantly makes a room feel snug. Layering is the secret; even a single knit blanket over the couch can change the whole mood.

Lighting matters, too. As the days grow shorter, trade harsh overhead lights for softer lamps and warm-toned bulbs. A few candles or a string of fairy lights add a gentle glow that makes evenings feel calm and inviting.

Finally, engage the senses. A simmering pot of cinnamon and orange peel, a favorite fall candle, or fresh-baked treats fill your home with the scents of the season. Small, inexpensive touches like these can turn any house into a comforting retreat all autumn long.

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September 2026 Trivia Answers

Question: What is the only mammal capable of true flight? 

Answer: Bat 

Winner: Patsy Barnes 

Your name was randomly selected from all of the correct entries. You’ve won a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  IT’S YOUR CHOICE!

October 2026 Trivia Questions

Question: What is the only country in the world that has a flag with a design that is not rectangular or square? 

Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by August 25th will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  It’s your choice!

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Facebook Page

Dear Readers,

You are welcome to check out my business Facebook page where I post our latest listings as well as real estate tips, etc throughout the month. Just go to  ElisaMcNinchRE. 

And as always, thank you for allowing me to be your real estate consultant for life. I love what I do because of clients like YOU! 

– Elisa McNinch, Realtor