The Magic Of Small Moments

It’s the warmth of tea on a chilly night,

Steam swirling up in the soft, dim light.

The softest glow of a candle’s flame,

Whispering comfort, calling your name.

It’s the laughter shared in quiet rooms,

A melody drifting through the gloom.

The simple joy of flowers in bloom,

Brightening even the coldest of rooms.

It’s the sound of footsteps in the snow,

a rhythm gentle, moving slow.

The joy in watching embers glow,

As winter winds around us blow.

A cozy sweater, worn with care,

the familiar hug of a favorite chair.

It’s these moments, pure and small

that fill our hearts and make us whole.

In every breath, in every glance,

Life’s magic thrives when we take a chance.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

Our Featured Listings

The Houston housing market is soft but seems to be strengthening especially as buyers are beginning to surface again since the FED dropped the interest rate mid-September. 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:

15910 Juneau in Jersey Village (77040) – JUST LISTED $367,900 – OPEN HOUSE ON SAT 1/4 FROM 1-4PM – www.har.com/55591168 – 1-story, 1748sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Stunning outdoor paradise. A-frame covered patio with 2 flat screen TVs, surround sound, & full outdoor kitchen. Saltwater pool with waterfall, spa & firepit. Home extensively renovated (2015-2019): Roof, high-efficiency HVAC, ductwork, electrical panel, double pane windows, engineered wood floors, lighting, garage doors, Hardie board, blown insulation, replaced sewer line, PEX plumbing (baths), remodeled kitchen & 2 baths, & ETC! Video: https://youtu.be/GhuVqii9ykw
15806 Tenbury in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $399,900 – www.har.com/56521408 – 2-story, 2576sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage. Double pane Low-E windows; Replumbed w/ PEX plumbing (no galvanized pipes); Home roof (2023) & Garage roof (2009); Electrical panel replaced, relocated, & 220 outlet added (2009); 15 SEER 5-ton HVAC; Water heater; Hardie siding. Video: https://youtu.be/4Ed7yoifOvo
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.

DECEMBER SOLDS:

10462 Hammerly Blvd in Spring Branch (77040) – FOR LEASE PRICE $1,850 – https://www.har.com/57158694 2-story townhome in Victorian Village was built in 1970, offers 1716sqft with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, & attached 2-car carport. Lease includes refrigerator, washer & dryer, water/sewer, and trash. Recent updates include roof, exterior siding, PEX plumbing, and interior paint. No carpet. Granite in kitchen and baths. Video: https://youtu.be/lZ7SingD2hU
8318 Shadow Wind in Windfern Gardens (77040) – FOR SALE $230,000 – MULTIPLE OFFERS POST OPEN HOUSE. SOLD IN A WEEK – www.har.com/24291794 – 1-story, 1535sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car carport. Roof w/ 30-yr shingles & warranty (2024), Trane 14-SEER heat pump system (2020), energy efficient double pane windows (2011), brick & Hardie board, & plank-style engineered wood flooring. Home is being sold “as is” & is ready for a new family to customize & add its personal touches to make it their own. Video: https://youtu.be/ErhifNEi2vE
16405 De Lozier in Jersey Village (77040) – NEW PRICE $399,900 –www.har.com/75055254 – Charming contemporary, 1-story home, built in 1977, 2271sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, & 2 car garage with carport. Located on a quiet street. Roof with warranty (7/12/24), PEX plumbing (2022), Double pane low-E windows (2020), Generac whole-house generator (2021), High-efficiency AC (2022), Hardie board siding, Wood-like porcelain tile flooring & MORE! Video: https://youtu.be/dh3ItB0yRVQ
16409 Jersey Hollow in Wyndham Village (77040) – FOR SALE $599,900 – www.har.com/94173578 – 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

Little Resolutions That Make A Big Impact

Ditch the snooze button. Set your alarm for when you’ll really get up.
Be punctual. Perfection isn’t realistic but leaving a few minutes earlier each morning can be a good way to start the day.
Your dentist always knows when you’re lying about it.
Send handwritten thank you notes. They’re more thoughtful than text messages.
Drink more water. Hydration is a wonderful thing!
Practice gratitude. Think of something you’re thankful for every day.
Stand up at least once an hour. Set an alarm if you need to and take a lap around the office or do a few quick stretches next to your desk.
Give yourself some grace when you stumble. Remember that progress isn’t linear; it’s a lifelong journey.

I love this idea! What a fantastic way to “recognize” the good things that happen to us on a daily basis, and then spend the last day of the year reflecting on our blessings.

Monthly Recipe: 4 Game-Day Recipes For A Lucky New Year

million dollar dip on a tray with crudites and crackers From Southern Living, “Classic Southern foods like black-eyed peas and greens promise good fortune, but who says you can’t eat those from the comfort of your couch?

Southern tradition has long held that dining on black-eyed peas and greens is a must on New Year’s Day to ensure prosperity in the coming months. But January 1 is also a big day for football, so it’s hard to resist the appeal of snacks you can eat on the sofa while watching bowl games. No need to drag everyone to the table for a sit-down meal. Whip up the following dips so avid fans can get their peas and greens for New Years luck while cheering on their favorite teams. Top off your good fortune with Millionaire’s Shortbread.”

For more go to: 4 Game-Day Recipes For A Lucky New Year

Winter Superfoods To Boost Your Mood And Health

Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and clementines are at their peak during winter. Packed with vitamin C, they boost immunity and add a refreshing brightness to your meals.

Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, and parsnips are hearty and comforting. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, they offer slow-release energy, which is perfect for chilly days. Roast them for a sweet, caramelized side dish.

Dark Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are winter’s nutrient powerhouses. High in folate and iron, they combat fatigue and support overall wellness. Sauté them for a quick and healthy side dish.

Pomegranates: Their jewel-like seeds are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. These tangy bursts of flavor are perfect for adding crunch to salads or as a snack.

Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts improve brain function and mood. Add them to oatmeal, bake them into muffins, or pop them in your mouth as a heart-healthy snack.

Cranberries: These tart berries are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. Mix dried cranberries into trail mix or toss fresh ones into baked goods for a festive touch.

January 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: January Events in Houston 2025

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in January

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

101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

Let The Light In

Exposure to natural light is crucial for regulating our circadian rhythms, which control our sleep wake cycles. During the winter months, the lack of daylight can disrupt this rhythm, and lead to fatigue.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders shows that light therapy—using a light box to simulate sunlight—can improve energy levels and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

If you can’t invest in a light box, then try to spend time outdoors during daylight hours, especially during the morning.

Southern Living: This Is The Worst Thing You Can Use To Clean Your Kitchen

cleaning items household spray brush sponge glove From Southern Living, “Are you doing more harm than good?

The kitchen is more than the heart of the home, it is where we prepare food to feed our family and friends. And unless you want to be featured on a crime show, it should be the cleanest areas of the home so that the food is stored and prepared safely to prevent food poisoning. To help you keep your kitchen as sanitary and clean as possible, we’ve identified the worst things you can use to clean your kitchen along with some suggestions to keep you off “America’s Dirtiest Kitchens”.

For more go to: The Worst Thing To Use To Clean Your Kitchen

Your Next Hotel Stay Is Printing Now

The world’s first 3D printed hotel, called El Cosmico, is officially under construction in Texas, and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

Just north of the city of Marfa in the Lone Star State’s far western desert region, the most noticeable piece of equipment at the site is a massive 3D printer. Nearly 47 feet wide, the Vulcan printer deposits layers of sand-colored concrete to form fantastically shaped structures that are unlike any hotel you’ve ever stayed in.

Created by the 3D printing and robotics company ICON, the Vulcan allows El Cosmico’s architects to build fluid shapes with ample curves and domes, with fewer constraints than traditional construction methods.

The hotel is projected to cost $200 to $400 a night, and guests who really love it can pony up for their own 3D-printed dwelling on the same site—starting at a steeper $2.29 million.

El Cosmico isn’t ICON’s only project. The company is also hard at work constructing one hundred homes in Georgetown, Texas. And the company may eventually go extra-terrestrial, too. In 2022, NASA awarded ICON a $57 million contract to research ways to erect 3D printed structures on the surface of the moon.

Southern Living: The Best Train Trips To Take Across The South

Amtrak's Crescent route

From Southern Living, “With Amtrak routes that crisscross across the South, vacationing by train has never been easier.

Imagine that you’re on a train bound for one of your favorite Southern cities—or perhaps a tiny town that you’ve always wanted to visit. You’re completely relaxed, having avoided the stress of flying or driving. You spend the hours leisurely reading a new book, enjoying the view of rolling hills and glittering lakes, and savoring a delicious meal in the dining car. You stretch your legs often, and your spacious seat makes it seem downright luxurious to pull out your laptop and work for a bit.

When you arrive, you step off the train and into the heart of a beautiful, walkable downtown. The smell of traditional Southern cooking wafts from an open-air café, and you stop into several locally owned boutiques as you stroll toward your hotel. You’re in the center of everything, and it’s exactly the vacation you’ve dreamed of.

With Amtrak routes that crisscross across the South, vacationing by train is easier, more affordable, and more accessible than ever. Here are nine spectacular Southern cities that you won’t want to miss on your next stop.”

For more go to: 9 Best Train Trips To Take Across The South

Be Realistic About New Years Goals

Breaking New Year’s habits is more common than you think. Research shows it takes about 66 days to form a lasting habit, so slipping up early isn’t failure—it’s part of the process.

“Behavior change isn’t linear,” therapist Dr. Kristin Neff says. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, recognize them as opportunities to reflect and adjust.

One common pitfall is setting goals that are too big or vague. Dr. Timothy Pychyl, an expert on habit formation, suggests breaking larger goals into smaller, actionable steps.

For example, rather than aiming to “get in shape,” try “walk 20 minutes three times a week.” Achieving small wins builds momentum and increases motivation.

It’s also essential to shift from a perfectionist mindset. Brené Brown, an American academic and podcaster, notes that perfectionism leads to all-or-nothing thinking, which can sabotage progress. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on progress and learning from slip-ups. Don’t give up when you miss a day or deviate from your plan. Instead, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”

Most importantly, practice self-compassion. Dr. Neff highlights that being kind to yourself reduces stress and increases motivation. During difficult times, treat yourself like you would a friend. Offer understanding, patience, and encouragement, instead of criticism or judgment.

Southern Living: 18 Bathroom Organizing Ideas To Maximize Space And Style

Rack for Towel Storage From Southern Living, “If you’re struggling to make your bathroom as functional as it could be, you’re going to want to make note of these useful organization ideas. Even those who are super tight on space can implement these tricks, we promise! You’re just a few simple steps from majorly upgrading your loo. We have to admit that these solutions are pretty aesthetically pleasing, too. Whether you need to create more storage space in a small bathroom or simply want to make your bathroom more functional, these bathroom organization ideas are sure to help you make the most of every inch of your space.”

For more go to: 18 Bathroom Organizing Ideas To Maximize Space & Style

Friendships Need Face-To-Face Time

Digital contacts are replacing real friendships. Technology, demanding jobs, and two-career households are translating into people having less time for in-person connections. Robert Putnam’s book Bowling Alone notes that the decline of social activities, such as bowling leagues, reflects how people are doing fewer things together.

Similarly, the UK’s The Lonely Society reports that half of Brits feel lonelier, and one-third wish they had closer relationships with family members.

In the United States, many Americans now have only two close friends and one in four has none. Online interactions dominate, but sociologists warn that these shallow connections can’t replace real friendships.

The key to strong bonds? Spend time face-to-face. Cultivate meaningful friendships by putting down electronic devices and making time for real interaction.

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’S NOVEMBER HOME SALES REMAIN STRONG DESPITE ELEVATED MORTGAGE RATES

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

Exercise To Store Fat?

This information might seem counterintuitive at first. Researchers have found that the more you exercise, the better your body becomes at storing fat. But wait: Doesn’t exercise help you burn fat? Yes, it does, but the critical point is not whether your body stores fat, since fat storage is necessary for good health, but rather how and where your body stores it.

Researchers from the University of Michigan, writing in Nature Metabolism, discovered that people who exercise regularly have a greater capacity to store fat under the skin, which is beneficial. Why? Because if fat isn’t stored under the skin, then it’s more likely to accumulate in organs, such as the liver, heart, or pancreas. When excess fat builds up in these organs, it can interfere with their proper function and lead to serious health issues.

In fact, fat is meant to be stored under the skin, where it’s safely kept and can be accessed for energy when needed. Regular exercise ensures that fat is stored in this healthier way, allowing your body to tap into those reserves efficiently for extra energy during physical activity or times of need.

Southern Living: How To Sow Grass Seed In Winter For A Lush Spring Lawn

A gardener spreading seeds on a lawn From Southern Living, “Simplify spring lawn establishment and reap the benefits of dormant seeding in cool-season lawns.

Get a jump start on spring lawn establishment by sowing grass seed in winter, a process called dormant seeding. By seeding cool-season lawns during the winter months, you avoid the common delay of spring sowing, namely wet soil. Winter-sown seeds can germinate up to several weeks earlier, allowing young grass seedlings to take advantage of early spring rains. Dormant seeding also gives the lawn a head start over weeds and provides more time for lawns to establish before the heat of summer arrives. Learn when and where to use dormant seeding, and how to prepare soil and sow grass seed in winter for an edge on spring lawn establishment. “

For more go to: How To Sow Grass Seed In Winter For A Lush Green Lawn

It’s the Law of Attraction. We get what we focus our energy on.

Let’s make 2025 your best year EVER!

Leave The Germs Behind When You Move

Moving to a new home means a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to discard what you don’t need and start a new phase of life. However, you may be taking some unwanted items with you—germs and bacteria.

Researchers have found that families commonly carry household bacteria from one house to another when they move. In some cases, less than a day went by before a family’s new home was already populated by the same bacteria as its old one. So be prepared—you may be making new memories, but you’ll be sharing some of the same old germs.

Daily Productivity Habits

Success is based on how you use the time available to you every day. To make the most of every minute, follow these simple rules:

Use a day planner. Whether you rely on technology or old-fashioned pencil and paper, plan every day for maximum efficiency. Start with a daily to-do list for both short- and long-term projects, carry over unfinished business to the next day, and check your list frequently so nothing important drops off your radar.
Set priorities. Don’t just work on tasks randomly. Identify your most important goals, your secondary objectives, and routine items that you can’t ignore. Plan your day around the work that supports your top goals, moving on to other projects when time permits. Always ask yourself, “What’s the most important and productive task I could be working on right now?”
Eliminate procrastination. This can be tough, but it separates the truly successful people from the rest: Don’t waste time on nonessentials. Get quickly to the point in every conversation, and move on as soon as you’re finished. Plan your work, but don’t over-prepare. Decide what you need to accomplish, and then do it. Even if you don’t enjoy certain tasks, think of how relieved you’ll feel once you’re finished.

December 2024 Trivia Answer

Question: What is the official terms for the fear of snow?

Answer: Chionophobia

Congratulations to Anita Overhouse!

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!

January 2025 Trivia Question

Question: What was the first product ever to be scanned with a barcode?

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

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