The Bamboo Lesson

In a quiet village, a gardener planted a special kind of bamboo. He watered it daily, tended the soil, and waited. Weeks passed, then months and then a whole year, but there was no sign of growth. Neighbors laughed and shook their heads. Still, the gardener cared for it patiently.

For five long years, nothing sprouted above the ground. But during the sixth year, a tiny green shoot appeared, and then, astonishingly, the bamboo grew more than eighty feet in only six weeks.

What had been happening all that time? Beneath the surface, the bamboo was growing an intricate network of roots strong enough to support its future height. Without that foundation, the towering stalks could never have stood tall against the wind. Its quiet preparation was essential, though no one could see it.

We’re not so different. Times in our life occur when our efforts seem invisible, and progress feels painfully slow. But often, we’re laying down roots that build resilience, skills, and strength for the rapid growth ahead.

This month, as nature shows us how patience brings harvest, remember: Your unseen efforts might be preparing you for a season of incredible growth. Continue tending your dreams.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

 

 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. 

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 OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE FOR OCTOBER:

• Sat 10/4: Deerfield Village Multiple Open Houses: 18307 Harrow Hill from 2-4PM
• Sat 10/11: Woodwind Lakes: 9430 Oratorio Ct from 2-4PM
• Sun 10/19: City of Jersey Village Multiple Open Houses: 16218 Capri, 16110 Saint Helier, 16529 De Lozier from 1-4PM

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ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 15307 Harrow Hill in Deerfield Village – (77084) –  FOR SALE $359,000  – www.har.com/15440358 – Stunning 2-story home with 2612sqft, 4 bdrms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Features: High-efficiency 16-SEER, 5-ton HVAC (2016); PEX plumbing; Electrical panel (2017); Roof (2013) & Tune-Up (2025); Double pane low-E windows (except 1st flr front); Plantation shutters; & MORE! Spacious living w/ vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling brick gas log FP, built-ins, LVP flooring, & French doors to backyard covered patio. Formal dining. Island kitchen w/ granite, glass cooktop, DW, MW, oven, refrigerator, & pantry. Breakfast rm. 1st flr Owner’s Retreat w/ 2 sinks, walk-in shower, & 2 closets. COMPLETELY UPDATED 2nd flr: Gmrm, 3 bdrms w/ walk-in closets, & bath w/ 2 sinks + combo tub/shower. Fully fenced yard w/ extensive patio, storage shed, & sprinklers. 2-car det garage w/ 2-car carport.  Video: https://youtu.be/OsRtWir6R_Q
• 9430 Oratorio Ct in Woodwind Lakes – (77040) –  FOR SALE $459,900  – www.har.com/5744745 – 2-story home with 2789sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. Charming, cottage-style David Weekley home in prestigious GATED section of Woodwind Lakes. Updates: New roof (Feb 2025), exterior paint, high-efficiency HVAC. LARGE pie-shaped lot features elevated gardens w/ organic edible garden & rainwater system—perfect for gardeners. 2-car garage w/ epoxy flr, workbench, & Gladiator cabinets. Inside, soaring 2-story foyer leads to an open-concept family rm w/ stacked stone gas FP. Island kitchen w/ SS appls, gas cooking, double ovens, & breakfast bar. Formal dining w/ wine vault. 1st flr owner’s suite boasts wall of garden-view windows, & spa-like ensuite bath w/ dual vanities, sep shower & jetted tub, & large walk-in closet. 2nd flr: 3 bdrms, game/flex rm, + updated full bath. Backyard paradise w/ extensive covered deck, impressive outdoor kitchen, & cozy firepit. Video: https://youtu.be/uw0AH7L-BKs
• 16218 Capri in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $429,000  – www.har.com/5744745 – Expanded 1-story home creating a 1.5-story home with 2750sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage. Two primary suites. All bedrooms on the 1st floor. Only gameroom on 2nd floor. Roof (2021), Energy efficient double pane windows (2018), Electrical panel (2024), LVP flooring (2023), Carpet (2025), Quartz countertops & fixtures in kitchen & all baths (2023), Fence (2023), Copper plumbing, & MORE. True 2-car wide driveway leads to 2-car garage & porte corchere. Living with vaulted ceiling & fireplace. Versatile living spaces could be repurposed. Owner’s ensuite bath with designated vanities & dressing areas, separate tub & walk-in shower. Fully fenced backyard. Sprinkler system. Video: https://youtu.be/15EM4AYsY7w 
• 16110 Saint Helier in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $569,000  – www.har.com/71723904 –  Stunning home w/ 1st-floor owner’s suite + sep garage apt—ideal for multi-gen living. AMENITIES/UPDATES: Roof (2023), Stucco, Energy-efficient HVACs, Double pane windows, Water softener, Water heater, UV air purifier, & MORE! Open floorplan w/ continuous tile & LED lighting. Gourmet island kitchen w/ granite, under-cab lighting, range, double ovens, & pantry w/ organizers. Spacious living w/ stacked stone FP. 1st flr owner’s suite w/ 2 sinks, walk-in shower, & customized closet. 2nd flr: 4 bdrms w/ LVP flooring + 2 full updated baths w/ frameless showers. TONS OF STORAGE! Fully finished quarters/garage apt w/ bdrm & bath. Circular drive, 4-car wide driveway, 2-car garage, carport, & shed. Covered wooden deck + outdoor kitchen—perfect for entertaining. Large fenced yard w/ sprinkler sys.  Video: https://youtu.be/Px3sTRB4vwg
• 16529 De Lozier in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $575,000  – www.har.com/41338413 –  Stunning 2-story 3771sqft, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3 car garage. Ideal setup for multigenerational household. Whole-house Generac generator. Incredible 38’x23′ Auxiliary Dwelling Unit (ADU) – separate, impressive, versatile space that could be workshop, guest house, studio, garage for storing classic cars w/ half bath. Detached 3-car garage w/ 1 bay suitable for lifted truck (8ft tall). Remodeled island kitchen w/ shaker-style cabinets, double ovens, glasstop cooktop, high-end appls. Large family rm w/ gas log FP. 1st flr Primary suite w/ updated bath w/ 2 sinks, walk-in shower, & customizable closets. 1st flr: guest bdrm + full bath. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 3 bdrms, & 2 fully remodeled baths. No carpet. Large utility rm. Covered patio, lawn sprinklers. Video: https://youtu.be/bbIHHuSu8Ow

PENDING SALES / LEASES:

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  8602 Rauch Ct in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $395,000  – MULTIPLE OFFERS / UNDER CONTRACT IN 5 DAYS – www.har.com/76117148 –  Rare 1-story, 2211sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 car garage, & saltwater pool. Updates: Fully re-piped w/ PEX (2025); Roof w/ transferrable warranty (2024); Pool replastered & changed to salt water chlorination system (2020); Trane high-efficiency HVAC installed (2017); Interior paint (2025)! Spacious family w/ high ceiling, gas/wood-burning FP, & wall of windows overlooking courtyard (6 double pane windows). Floorplan revolves around courtyard that provides privacy & lots of natural light! Bright white kitchen w/ glasstop cooktop, convection oven, MW (2025), DW (2021). Ref incl (2020). Formal dining or study. Owner’s suite w/ granite, 2 sinks, walk-in closet, & walk-in shower. 3 secondary bdrms w/ carpet & generous closets. Guest bath w/ granite, 2 sinks, & sep bathing area w/ tub shower. Det 3-car garage. Large fully fenced backyard w/ saltwater pool, mesh safety fence, storage shed (10×8), full lawn sprinklers. Video: https://youtu.be/z9uvtG7gIj0

SEPTEMBER SALES / LEASES:

• 4132 Deerfield Village Ct in Deerfield Village – (77084) –  FOR LEASE $2,100 – www.har.com/47745055 – Patio home ready for immediate move-in. Updated 1-story with 2032sqft, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, & 2-car garage. No pets. No smokers. Features: Roof (2025), Whole-house Generac generator, High-efficiency AC, LVP & ceramic tile flooring (2025), Interior & exterior paint (2025), High-ceilings, & more. Open floorplan w/ lots of natural light. Living w/ wood-burning FP w/ gas connections. Bright, white island kitchen w/ glasstop downdraft cooktop, DW, MW, electric oven. Indoor utility rm. Owner’s suite w/ 2 sinks, sep shower & jetted tub, large walk-in closet, & private atrium. 2 secondary bdrms w/ generous closets + full bath. 2-car garage w/ garage door opener. Covered flagstone patio & fenced backyard. Video: https://youtu.be/XLD19EotwMU 
• 235 W. 30th in Garden Oaks (77018) – FOR LEASE $2,300 – UNDER CONTRACT IN 14-DAYS – www.har.com/15536705 – 1940’s charming 1-story, 2 bedrooms, study, 2 full baths, 1-car garage. READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN. Study that could easily serve as a 3rd bdrm. Original hardwood floors in good condition, adds character & warmth. Kitchen w/ granite & gas cooking. Step outside to enjoy a spacious backyard w/ wood deck, shaded by a stunning mature tree that enhances both beauty & comfort.  No smokers. Pets considered on case-by-case basis. Video: https://youtu.be/PJ1hEdZ-JnQ
• 19422 Cypressthorn in Cypress Meadow – (77449) –  FOR SALE $249,900  – UNDER CONTRACT IN 10-DAYS – www.har.com/39757553 – 1-story home with 1400sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Roof replaced 7/25 & w/ transferrable warranty; Energy efficient double pane windows; HVAC & programmable thermostat; PEX plumbing w/ manifold in garage; Wood laminate & tile flooring (carpet only in 1-bedroom); Interior completely painted 8/25 (walls, ceilings, doors & trim); 9ft ceilings; Refrigerator, washer, & dryer included; Exterior pressure washed 7/25; Huge concrete patio (20×17) in backyard; 2-sides of fence replaced 7/25; Garage door opener; No rear neighbors; Never flooded & flood insurance not required.  Video: https://youtu.be/sxwbhaT8LMo
• 8202 Rustic Falls in Mission Glen (77083) – FOR SALE $228,900 – www.har.com/870416 – MULTIPLE OFFERS –  1-story home with 1175sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 2-car garage in quiet cul-de-sac on a spacious pie-shaped lot. Roof (2019). Fresh interior paint & new carpet (2025) create a bright, move-in ready feel. Living area with corner FP, high ceiling, & sliding glass doors that flood the space with natural light & open to the large backyard. Kitchen offers new dishwasher (2025), gas range, & pantry. Enjoy the privacy of a split-bedroom floorplan. Large fully fenced backyard with storage shed (for lawn equipment, bikes, etc). Video: https://youtu.be/yjpDVG6tnoU

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 Why Fall Foods Boost Immunity

As the weather cools and the cold creeps in, vitamin A becomes your immune system’s best friend. It plays a key role in supporting healthy skin, sharp vision (especially in low light), and your body’s natural defenses. And the best part? Fall produce makes it easy to load up naturally.

You’ll find beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, in vibrant orange fall veggies, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and butternut squash. Your body converts beta-carotene into active vitamin A, especially when it’s paired with some healthy fat, such as olive oil or an avocado.

So, when you’re roasting squash or making that cozy carrot soup, know that you’re eating for wellness in addition to comfort.

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 15+ Pumpkin Patches in Houston for pumpkins, hayrides, and fall activities 

From Click2Houston, “Autumn is here, and Houston’s pumpkin patches are ready for families, friends, and date nights. From photo-worthy pumpkins and corn mazes to pumpkin painting and seasonal fun, there’s something for everyone. Explore our 2025 guide to the best Houston pumpkin patches, with prices, locations, and special events.”

For more go to:  15+ Pumpkin Patches in Houston

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 Phone Calls Are Back, Baby

Remember when someone calling you was a normal thing? Not an emergency, not suspicious, not terrifying.

Somewhere between voicemails and emojis, the art of the phone call faded. But phone calls are making a comeback, and not just for doctors and delivery drivers:

• A five-minute catch-up with a friend while folding laundry
• A birthday call instead of a text
• A spontaneous check-in just to say, “hi”

Hearing someone’s voice is special; there is no buffering nor misread tone, the connection is real and unfiltered, and it’s about presence, not perfection or performance.

If you’re thinking about someone, then maybe don’t wait for the perfect text. Just hit “call” and put the kettle on. We’re bringing it back.

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Monthly Recipe: Sweet-and-Salty Snack Mix

This recipe sounded perfect for Halloween parties and fall festivals. From Southern Living, “We think Mom would approve of this snack mix variation. Remember that snack mix Mom always made using cereal, chocolate candies, nuts, and melted butter—lots of melted butter? We think Mom would approve of this variation that uses the same type cereal, bite-size pretzels, candy-coated peanut-butter candies, mini marshmallows, and a yummy butter mixture that Includes brown sugar and honey. This mix will satisfy everyone’s craving for something sweet and salty. Store in an airtight container and, for a fun presentation, fill waffle ice cream cones with the snack mix. This makes a great snack for outdoor picnics and game day events. Pair with a tray of sandwiches or a bowl of your favorite fall soup or stew.

For more go to:  Sweet-and-Salty Snack Mix Recipe

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 Choosing The Right Mums

With their cheerful domes of color, mums are fall’s way of keeping gardens and porches lively as summer fades. Whether brightening up outdoor spaces or bringing a touch of autumn indoors, these blooms are an easy and affordable way to enjoy flowers longer.

Florist Mums

Common in grocery stores and floral shops, these annuals are bred for compact, bushy growth and vibrant colors. Perfect for pots and porches, they’re best when bought with plenty of unopened buds for a longer bloom. Remember that they’re not winter hardy, so enjoy them while they last.

Garden Mums

Hardy garden mums, on the other hand, can return year after year in certain areas. They grow quickly, prefer being planted in the ground, and have a looser shape with more greenery.

Quick Care Tips

• Provide them with six hours of sunlight daily and moist, well-drained soil.
• Water them deeply, especially during warm weather.
• Perennial mums benefit from spring fertilizer and a midsummer phosphorus boost.
• Pinch off faded florist mum blooms to extend their display.

With the right choice and care, mums will keep your autumn spaces glowing beautifully.

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 October 2025 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 2025

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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Join us this year for our 51st annual Texas Renaissance Festival

2025 Dates: Weekends, October 11th through November 30th and Thanksgiving Friday

“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.”

For more go to: Texas Renaissance Festival

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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®

STRONG BUYER DEMAND DRIVES HOUSTON’S AUGUST HOUSING MARKET

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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 Respite Care: Every Caregiver Needs A Break

Respite is time off, time away, a much-needed time for a caregiver. It’s relying on someone else, whether a friend, relative, volunteer or professional, who can fill in for you and give you some time to yourself — because your wellness should be priority number one.

Unfortunately, according to a National Respite Coalition survey, most caregivers don’t realize they’re in need of respite care until it’s too late.

Only a small percentage of a National Alliance for Caregiving members actually used respite care. When they did, it was because of a health crisis or another emergency.

The challenge is that they view themselves not as caregivers, but as spouses, parents, or siblings who feel it’s their duty to provide care. They don’t believe they deserve a respite.       

If you are a caregiver, you need time away – just as any worker needs a vacation from the daily stress of their job, according to the National Caregivers Association. It’s a break that renews you.

The ideal respite is to go somewhere else so you’re not in the same environment. That’s the best way to clear your head. It gives a little bit of your life back. 

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 SL: 6 Kitchen Trends You’ll See Everywhere In 2026

From Southern Living, “If there’s one room in a home that shows its age the fastest, it’s the kitchen. We’re not just talking about wear and tear here—the trend cycle also plays a major role. If you’re planning to redo yours anytime soon, it’s a good idea to think a few months ahead and look at design choices that are on the rise.

Interior designers are often privy to upcoming kitchen trends because they’re the ones attending trade shows, paying attention, and identifying patterns. That’s why we asked three of them to weigh in on the top kitchen trends they predict will take center stage in 2026. Let’s just say the future looks very stylish for this functional room.”

For more go to:  6 Kitchen Trends You’ll See Everywhere In 2026

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 Halloween: Dressing Up On The Cheap

Have the price tags on Halloween costumes caused a scare? You’re not alone. Halloween costumes can get quite pricey, especially given that the outfits will likely get worn only a few times. And many children will quickly outgrow their Halloween costumes, meaning you may have to shell out for a new costume every year. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to lower Halloween costume and decoration costs.

• You can make many great costumes and decorations yourself, spending only a few dollars on supplies.
• Seasonal products often come at a premium due to high demand. Sometimes you can find great costumes outside of the Halloween section.
• After Halloween wraps up, you can often find awesome costumes on the cheap. The same is true for Halloween decorations. Instead of waiting until next year, pick up some stuff this November.
• Thrift stores often put together Halloween collections where you can find costumes, props, and costume-ready clothing pieces.

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 September 2025 Trivia Answer

Question: Which animal can sleep for up to three years at a time? 

Answer:  Snails

Congratulations to Sandy Hoelscher! 

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 2025 Trivia Question

Question: Which U.S. president made Halloween an official holiday at the White House by hosting the first-ever trick-or-treating event there? 

Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by October 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