The Flight Of Icarus

Daedalus, a master craftsman and ingenious inventor from  Ancient Greece, was famed for engineering the intricate labyrinth on the island of Crete, a maze constructed to confine the fearsome Minotaur. However, when Daedalus aided the hero Theseus in navigating the snaking paths of the maze to escape its clutches, he invoked the wrath of King Minos, the sovereign of Crete. Enraged, King Minos condemned Daedalus and his son, Icarus, to a desolate tower.

Daedalus, undeterred by his and Icarus’s grim circumstances, hatched a daring plan for freedom. He meticulously fashioned wings from a mosaic of feathers bound together with wax. As they prepared to take their perilous flight from captivity, Daedalus imparted a solemn warning to his son: “Fly not too high, lest the sun’s blaze melt the wax. Nor too low, for the sea’s mist will weigh down your wings.”

Icarus, overwhelmed by the exhilaration of flight and the allure of liberty, carelessly soared too high, captivated by the boundless skies.

Tragically, as they glided over the azure expanses of the Aegean Sea, the scorching sun melted the wax of Icarus’s wings. His desperate fall ended his life in the sea’s cold embrace and left Daedalus to mourn his loss in solitude.

The tale serves as a poignant reminder: Ambition fuels the spirit, yet wisdom must guide it.

~ Elisa McNinch Realtor

 

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Our Featured Listings

The Houston housing market has softened and seems to bein the process of becoming a more “balanced market” again. 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. 

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 8309 Koester in Jersey Village (77040) – NEW PRICE $499,900 – www.har.com/58203180 –  2-story, 3061sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, gameroom, “flex” room, oversized 4 car garage. 2 Primary Suites (1st floor & 2nd floor). Lots of amenities: Double pane windows, 2 zoned HVAC systems, wood laminate, remodeled kitchen with shaker cabinets, quartz, gas cooking, & more. No rear neighbors. Video: https://youtu.be/-14FQUf28ZQ 
• 16409 Jersey Hollow in Wyndham Village (77040) – FOR SALE $599,900 – www.har.com/95382637 –  2-story, 3727sqft, 4-5 bedrooms, 3 baths, gameroom,  oversized 2 car garage, & porte corchere. 1st floor primary bedroom. Study (or bedroom 5) & full bath on 1st floor. Amenities: Roof (2021), 2 zoned HVAC systems, 2- water heaters, hardwood floors, EV outlet in garage. No rear neighbors. Not in 100-yr flood plain (according to survey). Video: https://youtu.be/RuDvb6N7jXM 
• 5505 Hardy St in Ryon (77009) – FOR SALE $207,000 – www.har.com/97581240  – 5,000sqft lot ready to be built on. Lot is 50ft wide x 100ft deep. No HOA. No MUD. Low tax rate. 

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Monthly Recipe: 22 Patriotic Desserts For Every Star-Spangled Celebration

From Southern Living, “Our easiest red, white, and blue cakes, pies, and icebox treats. 

During patriotic holidays, we honor the men and women who sacrificially serve, protect, and defend our country by celebrating with friends, family, fireworks, and great food. Cap off your Memorial Day and Fourth of July cookouts with one of these patriotic desserts that feed a crowd. Which festive dessert is for you?

For more go to:  22 Patriotic Desserts for Every Star-Spangled Celebration

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July’s Historical Moments

July has been the backdrop for significant historical events that have shaped nations, cultures, and ideologies. This article explores and reflects on some notable moments in history that occurred during July.

American Independence: One of the most celebrated events in July is American Independence Day, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of the United States’ journey as a sovereign nation, leading to a global impact on democracy and governance. Today, Independence Day is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and patriotic ceremonies throughout the United States.

The Storming of the Bastille: July 14 marks Bastille Day, a significant event in French history. In 1789, the storming of the Bastille, a fortress and prison in Paris, became a symbol of the French Revolution and the

fight against tyranny. Bastille Day is now a national holiday in France, celebrated with parades, fireworks, and communal festivities.

The First Moon Landing: On July 20, 1969, humanity achieved a monumental feat with the first moon landing during NASA’s Apollo 11 mission. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the moon, an event memorialized by Armstrong’s iconic words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” This achievement marked a milestone in space exploration and remains an inspiration for scientific discovery and human ingenuity.

The Signing of the Civil Rights Act: On July 2, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act, a landmark legislation in American history. This act aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Civil Rights Act became a cornerstone for advancing equality and social justice, laying the foundation for future civil rights movements.

These historical moments remind us of the power of change and the importance of commemorating milestones that continue to shape our world. Each event offers lessons in courage, determination, and the enduring spirit of humanity.

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Celebrate Independence Day on Thursday, July 4th. 

Happy 248th Birthday, America!

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July Roundup

Canada Day, July 1: This marks the unification of the country’s provinces. Activities throughout Canada include fireworks, concerts, and other festive events.

Independence Day, July 4: This day marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, typically observed with fireworks, parades, and family gatherings.

International Ice Cream Day, July 21: International Ice Cream Day celebrates one of the world’s most popular desserts. What’s your favorite flavor?

2024 Summer Olympics, July 26: Let the games begin in Paris!

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July 2024 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: July Events in Houston 2024

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in July

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

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

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Visit the Dallas Zoo for Just $1: Here’s How

If you are visiting the Dallas area this summer, this may be just what you’ve been looking for!

From Southern Living, “Tickets for this wild deal are available now and selling fast. 

Lions, tigers, and elephants, oh my!

They say things are bigger in Texas, but at the Dallas Zoo, one community initiative has ticket prices dropping.

If you’re looking for fun and affordable activities for your kids this summer—or maybe just for yourself and a loved one—the Dallas Zoo is back with its wildly popular ‘Dollar Days’ promotion in partnership with Texas-based Whataburger. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to explore more than 2,000 animals representing 400 species at the oldest and largest zoo in Texas. Fun fact: The zoo was founded with just two deer and two mountain lions in 1888.”

For more go to:  Dollar Days at the Dallas Zoo

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Summer Pet Care

Summer can pose challenges for pet owners, with heat, outdoor activities, and travel impacting pet safety. Here are some tips to maintaining pets’ happiness and health during the summer months:

Beat the Heat. Pets can be susceptible to heatstroke, so it’s crucial to keep them cool. Avoid walking pets during the hottest part of the day, provide plenty of fresh water, and ensure shaded areas are available. Cooling mats and pet-friendly pools can also help maintain pets’ comfort.

Traveling with Pets. Use secure carriers for car travel, stop frequently for bathroom breaks, and never leave pets in a parked car. When traveling by air, check airline policies on pet transport and choose direct flights when possible.

Outdoor Safety. Pets often spend more time outdoors during summer, which can increase their risk of becoming injured or getting lost. Use identification tags and microchips and keep pets on a leash in unfamiliar areas. Check out tips on pet-proofing backyards and ensure fences are secure. 

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Southern Living: 10 Best Beaches in Texas To Visit

Looking to spend sometime at the beach this summer? Take a look at what Southern Living notes as Texas’ best beaches. 

From Southern Living, “There are 350 miles of Texas shoreline just waiting to be explored.

Texas is praised for scenic Hill Country towns like Boerne and Fredericksburg and lively cities like Austin, Houston, and Fort Worth, but Texas’ best beaches are vacation-worthy, too. You’ll find many options on 350 miles of Texas shoreline snaking along the Gulf of Mexico and dotted with under-the-radar beach destinations (under the radar for anyone who doesn’t hail from the Lone Star State, that is).

Venture to Texas’s under-appreciated coastal territory and you’ll find laid-back, family-friendly getaways (like Port Aransas and Galveston), as well as beautiful wildlife and state parks on barrier islands (like Mustang Island and South Padre Island). Throw in endless outdoor activities, and you’re in for a mellow vacation. So, yes, Texas really does have beaches. Great ones.

Choose from among these favorite coastal destinations and their impressive stretches of sand. Here’s where to find the best beaches in Texas.”

For more go to:  10 Best Beaches In Texas To Visit

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Keep Swimmer’s Ear Away

If you plan to spend a lot of time in the water this summer, have some over-the-counter ear drops handy. Swimmer’s ear is a common complication from water play in which water gets in the ear, remains there, and creates the right environment for the growth of bacteria. You can even make the drops yourself by mixing equal parts of alcohol and vinegar. The alcohol is drying and the acetic acid in vinegar lowers the pH in the ears, decreasing the chance that bacteria and fungi can grow. If you or your child have ongoing low-grade pain (especially when the ear is touched), an itchy feeling or drainage, see a doctor for treatment.

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The Influence Of Kind Words

Dr. Masaru Emoto, a Japanese researcher, claimed that water crystals could be influenced by thoughts, words, and music.

In his experiments, Dr. Emoto exposed water to various stimuli and then froze it to examine the resulting crystals. He found that water exposed to positive words, such as “love” and “gratitude,” or to classical music formed more intricate and beautiful crystals. Water exposed to negative words or harsh music produced less-appealing crystals.

Dr. Emoto’s work became popular, especially among people interested in positive thinking. His book The Hidden Messages in Water gained a following. However, his research has been widely criticized for lacking scientific rigor and reproducibility.

Critics point out issues with his methods, including observer bias and the inability to replicate his results under controlled conditions.

Despite the controversy, Dr. Emoto’s work continues to spark interest in the idea that thoughts and energy could influence physical phenomena.

While his experiments are not scientifically validated, they raise questions about the power of positivity and our connection to the environment. To confirm his claims, more rigorous scientific studies would be required. 

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Remote Work: Tips For Productivity And Focus

Remote work offers flexibility but it can also challenge productivity and work-life balance. Here’s a condensed guide to staying focused and efficient while working from home:

Create a Dedicated Workspace: Designate a quiet, well-lit area as your workspace, separate from personal spaces. Use ergonomic furniture for comfort.

Establish a Routine: Set a consistent schedule for work, breaks, and meals to create structure and maintain balance.

Dress for Work: Dressing in work-appropriate attire can help set the right mindset, even when working from home. Be comfortable but avoid hanging out in your pajamas all day.

Minimize Distractions: Identify and reduce distractions, such as social media or noise, to stay focused during work hours.

Use Productivity Tools: Leverage task management and time-tracking apps like Trello, Asana, or Toggl to stay organized and efficient.

Take Regular Breaks: Avoid burnout by following the Pomodoro Technique of working in focused intervals with short breaks.

Communicate Effectively: Use video conferencing and messaging apps to maintain clear communication with your team.

Focus on Results: Prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines, focusing on outcomes rather than hours worked.

Implement these tips to boost productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance while working remotely.

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“Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.”

 – Paul J. Meyer

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Southern Living: 12 Best Companion Plants For Rosemary

From Southern Living, “Rosemary combines magically with herbs and vegetables in both the kitchen and the garden.

From kitchen gardens to edible landscapes, rosemary pairs beautifully with a wide range of plants. Many of the same herbs and vegetables that mingle with rosemary in the pot, like peppers and oregano, also work well as garden neighbors. Rosemary companion plants also include ornamental species. With upright and spreading forms available, rosemary can be used in a variety of garden settings, from containers to rock gardens. The soft blue flowers attract pollinators and other beneficial insects while complementing ornamental grasses and perennials.  

Rosemary provides several benefits to its neighbors, thanks to its aromatic foliage. The woody evergreen herb is native to the Mediterranean region and grows naturally on rocky hillsides. Established plants stand up to tough growing conditions including blistering sun, wind, heat, and drought. For the greatest success, pair rosemary with companion plants that require the same growing conditions, notably dry, well-draining soils and plenty of sunshine. Here are a few fabulous companions to try.”

For more go to:  12 Best Companion Plants For Rosemary

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Patio Furniture Strategies

July is definitely not the best month to get the best price on patio furniture, according to Wayfair.

You might get a small discount of 10 to 15 percent during July 4 sales, but the big discounts are always at the end of the season in August, with the biggest discounts at the end of the month. But if you want something in particular, you are taking a gamble that it will still be available.

• For the best selection, plan to make your purchase in May.
• For the longest lasting pieces, buy wrought iron chairs that will last decades outside with no care. If they fade after 10 years or so, simply spray paint them. Swap out the cushions for color and comfort.

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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®

HOUSTON HOME PRICES HIT RECORD HIGHS AS THE MARKET WEATHERS MAY STORMS

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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Southern Living: 6 Mountain Getaways To Beat The Southern Heat

From Southern Living, “Head for the hills, it’s too darn hot!

When the weather turns scorchingly hot, a dip in a swimming pool isn’t going to cut it. The only way you can truly cool off during these sweaty days in the South is to pack a bag and head for the mountains.

Our region is full of mountain towns that are not only a few degrees cooler in the summer, they have plenty of waterfalls, rivers, swimming holes, and other refreshing places where you can beat the heat. Here are a few of our favorite places for easy summer getaways.”

For more go to:  6 Mountain Getaways To Beat The Southern Heat

 June 2024 Trivia Answer

Question:  Who is considered the inventor of the World Wide Web? 

Answer:  Tim Berers-Lee 

Congratulations to Melissa Piper! 

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!

July 2024 Trivia Question

Riddle:  What word contains twenty-six letters but has only three syllables?

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