Our Monthly Newsletter

Trusting The Wind: The Painted Lady’s Spring Journey

As late March flows into early April, the Painted Lady butterfly begins to appear across the southern United States and California, signaling that the season of movement and growth is well underway. These butterflies may look delicate, but they are the most determined travelers on the planet, taking part in a remarkable 9,000-mile migration that stretches from Africa’s Sahara Desert to the Arctic Circle.

No single butterfly completes the journey. Instead, the migration unfolds across multiple generations, with each new Painted Lady instinctively continuing the path forward. They rise high into the sky, sometimes thousands of feet above the ground, catching favorable winds that carry them vast distances. Constantly flying, breeding, and laying eggs, they move with the rhythm of the season, responding to rainfall, blooming plants, and opportunity.

Their arrival in early April tells a powerful story of persistence and quiet determination. Progress is rarely fast or immediately visible, yet the Painted Lady shows us how meaningful change unfolds when each generation contributes its part. No single butterfly carries the full weight of the journey, but together they accomplish what once seemed impossible.

The Painted Lady reminds us that growth does not require certainty, only commitment and trust in the process. It happens by showing up, adapting to changing conditions, and trusting the winds that carry us forward, season by season, as small efforts turn into something truly extraordinary over time.

~ 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. 

NEW 3-D Interactive Floorplans now available via:Homes.com Logo

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

  • 8314 Columbia Forest – (77095) –  FOR LEASE $2,000 a month  – www.har.com/7041459 – 2-story townhome with 1676sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. ***READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN*** Gorgeous townhome located in Villages at Hanover. Enjoy the newer construction (2016) of this K. Hovnanian home crafted w/ TONS OF ENERGY EFFICIENT FEATURES: Double pane windows; Radiant barrier; High efficiency AC, & more. Wood-like tile on 1st floor & wood laminate on 2nd floor. Kitchen w/ granite countertops, tile backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, gas range, microwave, DW, & double door pantry. Refrigerator, washer, & dryer included. 3 bdrms + 2 full baths upstairs. Primary Suite w/ double sinks, soaking tub w/ shower, & large walk-in closet. Two secondary bdrms & full bath w/ tub shower. Upstairs utililty rm is close proximity to all 3 bdrms. Extended concrete patio & manageable backyard. HOA mows front yard. Tenant responsible for backyard. No smokers. Pets considered: dog less than 10lbs, but no cats. Great location w/ easy access to Hwy 290 & Hwy 6. Close to shopping, restaurants, Cy-Fair ISD schools, & more.  YouTube Video
  • 312 Travis St in Downtown Richmond – (77469 FOR SALE $185,000 – www.har.com/22689124 – 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

PENDING SALES:

  • 18035 Mountfield in Deerfield Village – (77084) –  FOR SALE $329,900 – MULTIPLE OFFERS & UNDER CONTRACT IN 14-DAYS   – www.har.com/20447280 – 1-story home with 2197sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Timeless classic located on a corner lot in the heart of Deerfield Village! Spacious family rm w/ brick FP, engineered wood flrs, beamed ceiling, & walls of windows overlooking backyard. Kitchen features gas cooktop, double ovens, ample cabinetry, breakfast area, & French doors leading to the covered patio. Primary suite w/ access to covered patio & well-designed bath w/ double sinks, dressing vanity, 2 walk-in closets, & tub shower combo. 3 sizeable secondary bdrms w/ generous closets, & full bath. Enjoy outdoor living beneath a majestic oak w/ large covered patio, arbor, fully fenced yard, sprinkler system, & storage shed. Deerfield Village is a vibrant, family-friendly community known for mature trees, walking trails, pool, tennis, parks, & year-round neighborhood events. Convenient to shopping, dining, Cy-Fair ISD schools, & easy access to I-10. Low tax rate. Thoughtfully priced to allow buyers the opportunity to update, personalize, & create their dream home  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video

  • 15705 Congo in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $449,000 – MULTIPLE OFFERS & UNDER CONTRACT IN 3-DAYS  – www.har.com/16982587 – 1-story home with 2319sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Extensively updated 1-story, 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath w/ circular drive + pool + outdoor kitchen. Amenities: Roof (3/2/2026); Whole house re-piped w/ PEX (2022); Tankless water heater (2022); High-efficiency AC condenser (2022); Electrical panel (2024); Installed in-ground gunite chlorine pool (2018); Primary bath remodeled (2022); Brazilian mesquite hardwood flrs; Plantation shutters; Outdoor kitchen w/ gas, TV, surround sound: Kitchen remodeled (2023); Sprinkler system (2020); & MORE! Formal living & dining. Spacious family rm w/ stacked stone FP. Kitchen w/ granite, subway tile BS, under-cab lighting, gas cooktop, convection oven, SS appls. Refrigerator optional. Large utility rm w/ built-ins & Half-Bath. Study or 4th bdrm w/ French doors. Primary bath w/ walk-in shower. Exterior brick & Hardie. Extensive patio entertainment area & grass for pets. 2-car garage w/ driveway gate. Ideal location for commuters w/ easy access to 290 @ Bltwy 8. Walking distance to JVHS & Post Elem. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
  • 9919 Driftwood Park in White Oak Falls – (77095) –  FOR SALE $275,000 – MULTIPLE OFFERS & UNDER CONTRACT IN 5-DAYS  – www.har.com/81839915 – 1-story home with 1660sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, & 2-car garage. Nestled beneath mature shade tree w/ TONS OF UPDATES. Amenities: Roof w/ architectural 30yr shingle (2023); High-efficiency HVAC sys (2023); Double pane windows w/ solar screens; Wi-Fi lawn sprinkler; Ring doorbell & Alarm; Water-resistant LVP flooring (2023 & 2025); Updated island kitchen in 2023 w/ painted cabinetry, quartzite countertops, subway tile BS, & touch faucet; SS kitchen appls (2021); FP w/ ceramic gas logs; Deep-fill washer & dryer incl, Covered patio w/ stamped concrete flooring, 2 ceiling fans, recessed lighting, slatted wall enclosure, & gas stub-out; Fence (2021); Garage door opener; NO REAR NEIGHBORS & NEVER FLOODED. Exterior brick + Hardie siding. Interior w/ high ceilings. Spacious family rm w/ corner FP. Island kitchen w/ double door pantry. Refrigerator incl. Primary retreat w/ 2 closets, garden tub + sep shower. IDEAL LOCATION FOR COMMUTERS w/ easy access to Hwy 290. Just minutes from shopping, restaurants, Cy-Fair ISD schools, & more.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
  • 3010 Elderberry Orchard in Harvest Green – (77406) –  FOR SALE $1,089,484 – Representing buyer – www.har.com/89499806 – Tri-Pointe new construction in Harvest Green. 2-story home with 4667sqft, 6 bedrooms, 5.1 baths, & 3-car garage. Luxurious Two-Story Dream Home | Ready This March. Experience elevated living in this exceptional two-story home, nearing completion and ready for move-in this March. Designed with flexibility and sophistication in mind, this residence offers 6 bedrooms, including a private main-level gen suite ideal for multi-generational living or guests, 5.5 baths, and a 3-car garage. The expansive floor plan features a formal dining room, private home office, media room, and game room—perfect for entertaining, working from home, and everyday relaxation. The open-concept living area is filled with natural light and flows seamlessly to a covered patio, creating effortless indoor-outdoor living. The primary suite is a serene retreat, showcasing spa-inspired finishes with an oversized walk-in closet, dual vanities, a separate shower, and a luxurious garden tub. Thoughtful design and upscale finishes throughout elevate this home into a true luxury experience. Matterport 3-D Floorplan 

MARCH SOLDS / LEASED:

  •  3939 Flora Field in Laurel Farms – (77423) –  FOR LEASE $1,997 – www.har.com/55532393 Represented tenant. 2-story home with 2003sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Spacious four bedroom two and a half bath home located in the desirable Laurel Farms community in Brookshire. This modern open concept layout offers a large island kitchen that flows into the living and dining areas, perfect for family gatherings and everyday living. The private primary suite on the first floor provides comfort and privacy, while upstairs features generously sized secondary bedrooms and a flexible game room ideal for kids or a home office. Zoned to highly regarded Fulshear area schools, with easy access to major highways, shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. Two car garage and a welcoming neighborhood make this home an excellent choice for families seeking space, convenience, and quality of life.
  • 1711 S. Kirkwood in Lakeside – (77077) –  FOR SALE $399,000  – www.har.com/89829722 –  Represented buyer. 1-story home with 1866sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, & 2-car garage. Completely renovated and move-in ready, this beautiful 1-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a formal dining room, breakfast room, and a cozy living area with gas fireplace. The open-concept kitchen flows seamlessly into the family area, featuring granite countertops, ample cabinetry, and a convenient double oven—perfect for home-cooked meals and gatherings. The spacious primary suite includes dual sinks, a large shower room, and his-and-hers walk-in closets. Step outside to a private, fenced backyard with a patio and detached garage, all secured by a driveway gate and enhanced with ring security cameras, doorbell, and door sensors. Residents enjoy access to amenities including swimming and lap pools, a playground, dog park, fitness center, and clubhouse. Located just a mile from Terry Hershey Park’s scenic biking and walking trails, and minutes from City Centre, the Galleria, and Downtown Houston—perfect for those seeking modern sophistication in a prime Houston location. Matterport 3-D Floorplan 
  • 9430 Oratorio Ct in Woodwind Lakes – (77040) –  FOR SALE $435,000  – www.har.com/15267735 – 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 (2/25); exterior paint; Zoned high-efficiency HVACs. LARGE pie-shaped lot features elevated gardens, mature fruit trees, & rainwater system—perfect for gardeners. OR envision your own endless backyard possibilities. 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/ 2 vanities, sep shower & jetted tub, & large walk-in closet. 2nd flr: 3 bdrms, game/flex rm +updated bath. Backyard paradise w/ extensive covered deck, impressive outdoor kitchen, & cozy firepit. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
  • 16529 De Lozier in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $565,000  – www.har.com/10641619 –  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. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan YouTube Video
  • 2802 Hazy Creek Dr in Creek Bend Estates – (77084) –  FOR SALE $329,900  – www.har.com/62383263 – 2-story home with 2400sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Original homeowners selling their beloved home. AMENITIES: Int paint (2026), PEX plumbing (2023); Double pane windows; Solar screens (2020), High-efficiency HVAC (2010), Electrical panel (2023) & hardwired for portable generator (incl); Whole-house surge protector; Water heater (2023); Roof w/ architectural shingles (2018); 20×15 covered patio w/ tile flr (2016) & firepit (2020); Storage shed (2022); wifi sprinkler sys (2019); Hardie board siding w/ 30yr ext paint; & MORE. Never flooded & flood ins not required. Traditional floorplan w/ formal dining. Dual-sided FP separates spacious living & “hearth rm” off kitchen w/ wood-like tile flr. Updated kitchen w/ Silestone countertop & stone BS, gas range, SS Samsung (2025). W&D incl. All 4 bdrms up. Spacious owner’s suite w/ 2 sinks, jetted tub, updated shower (2021), & large walk-in closet. 3 secondary bdrms+updated bath w/ 2 sinks. Peaceful backyard retreat w/ shade tree, blooming plants attracting birds & butterflies. No rear neighbors. Katy ISD schools.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video

Bring Spring Into Every Room

When we think of spring cleaning, closets and kitchens usually come first. But refreshing your furniture and carpets can make an instant difference, leaving your home feeling lighter, brighter, and cleaner.

Start with your vacuum.

Before you clean anything else, make sure your vacuum is ready to do its job. Empty the bag or canister, replace filters if needed, and check hoses for clogs. Take a minute to remove hair and threads wrapped around the brush so you are actually picking up dirt, not just pushing it around.

Vacuum absolutely everything.

Go beyond the floors. Vacuum carpets, rugs, baseboards, and all upholstered furniture. Remove couch cushions and use the wand to reach into crevices where crumbs and dust love to hide. You might be surprised by what you find.

Refresh cushions and pillows.

If cushion covers are removable, wash and dry them according to the label instructions. This simple step can completely change the look and smell of a room. While you are at it, replace any flattened or worn-out throw pillow inserts for an instant upgrade.

Tackle stains and odors.

Spot-clean carpet stains as soon as you notice them. For lingering smells, sprinkle baking soda generously over carpets and rugs, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. For tougher stains or heavily used areas, consider renting a steam cleaner or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service.

Don’t forget the windows.

Clean windows let in more light and make everything feel fresher. Wash or dry-clean curtains, wipe down blinds and shades, and clean the glass and windowsills to remove built-up dust.

Give throw rugs some love.

Take rugs outside and shake out dust and dirt. If they are washable, follow the care instructions and give them a proper cleaning before putting them back in place.

A little extra effort on your soft surfaces can completely change how your home feels this spring. Cleaner carpets, fresher furniture, and brighter windows all add up to a space that feels renewed and ready for the season ahead.


Celebrate Easter Sunday on  April 5th.


April 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: April Events in Houston 2026

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in April

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

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston


Arbor Day Planting Made Simple

Arbor Day is the perfect reminder that a single tree can make a lasting difference. The right tree adds beauty to your landscape, boosts curb appeal, and can even increase the value of your home. With a little planning, planting a tree becomes an investment you and future generations can enjoy.

Before you dig in, choose a location that gives your tree room to thrive. Be mindful of nearby buildings and power lines, and take a moment to picture how your tree will grow over time. Asking the right questions now helps ensure years of shade, color, and enjoyment.

Consider these helpful points when selecting your tree:

Size and shape matter. How tall and wide will the tree become? Columnar trees are great for smaller spaces, while round or V-shaped trees create generous shade for yards and gathering areas.

Seasonal changes add character. Will the tree drop its leaves in winter? Is it suited to the temperatures in your area?

Growth pace tells a story. Fast-growing trees reward you with shade and beauty in just a few years, while slower-growing varieties often live longer and become treasured landmarks.

Match the tree to the site. Make sure the soil, sunlight, and moisture conditions fit the tree’s needs so it can grow strong and healthy.

Think about flowers and fruit. Blooming trees can be stunning in spring, but consider where petals or fruit might fall, especially near sidewalks or driveways.

Planting a tree is an act of optimism. This Arbor Day, take pride in choosing a tree that fits your space, your lifestyle, and your vision for the future. It’s a small step that leaves a meaningful, living legacy.


Monthly Recipe: Easter Blondies

Easter Blondies cut on a serving board with a bowl of candy on the sideFrom Southern Living, “The perfect egg-hunt treat. 

These Easter blondies land squarely between chewy and soft, with a dense, buttery crumb that holds together cleanly when sliced. The whipped egg base gives them a delicate lift, but the melted butter keeps the texture rich and slightly fudgy.

Candy-coated chocolate eggs (we mean the irresistible Cadbury Minis) add pockets of crunch and sweetness, with a lightly crisp shell that contrasts the tender interior. They also add the perfect touch of pastel spring color so this is welcome at any spring party, whether it’s an egg hunt or garden party.

For more and the recipe go to:  Easter Blondies


Open-Air Living: One Upgrade That Truly Pays Off

Relaxing, attractive, and highly desirable, outdoor living spaces continue to stand out as one of the smartest upgrades homeowners can make.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey, homeowners spent about $827 billion on home improvement projects between 2021 and mid-2023. That represents a jump of more than $200 billion from the prior two-year period. Outdoor improvements are a significant part of this trend, with leisure-focused projects making up nearly 19% of all home upgrades, according to Angi.

Outdoor living has evolved far beyond a simple deck and grill. Today’s homeowners are creating spaces that feel like natural extensions of the home. These may include open-air rooms with seating, dining areas, fireplaces, or televisions. Florida rooms offer bright, climate-controlled comfort year-round, while sunrooms and solariums highlight beautiful views and bring in abundant natural light.

Enclosing a patio or deck is easier than ever. Modern enclosure systems can be customized to fit your space and budget, with options such as vaulted ceilings, skylights, tinted glass, and built-in electrical access. All-season rooms cost more but they provide the greatest flexibility for year-round use.

Whether you want a peaceful retreat, a place to entertain, or a feature that appeals to future buyers, outdoor living spaces deliver comfort, enjoyment, and lasting value.


SL: How To Keep Wasps Off Your Porch

A group of wasps on a nest attached to a surfaceThis one is timely for me as every home I showed today has wasp nests on their front porch.

From Southern Living, “Warmer weather means your yard is buzzing with activity, gardens are waking up, and porch season is near. Unfortunately, it also means stinging insects are abuzz, and they’re looking for a place to nest. Wasps are attracted to shelter and warmth, and your porch’s corners and nooks may be just what they’re looking for when building their nests. To avoid dodging wasps every time you enter your house or relax on the porch, take a look at what is attracting them in the first place. Here’s how to keep wasps away from your porch so you won’t have to share.”

For more go to:  How To Keep Wasps Off Your Front Porch


The First Televised April Fools’ Day Hoax

Perhaps because of its serious reputation, the BBC carried out the first successful televised April Fools’ hoax in 1957. During the program Panorama, respected broadcaster Richard Dimbleby reported on Switzerland’s annual spaghetti harvest. Viewers saw footage of women picking strands of spaghetti from trees and laying them out in the sun to dry. Dimbleby explained that generations of spaghetti farmers had ensured the strands all grew to the same length.

According to the BBC, spaghetti was not a common dish in 1957, and some viewers were intrigued enough to ask how they could buy their own spaghetti trees.


Premium Credit Cards: Luxe Perks Or Hidden Time Traps?

Premium credit cards love to advertise big rewards: Uber credits, airport lounges, luxury hotels, even four-figure welcome bonuses. It can feel like you are missing out if you do not have one.

But those perks come at a cost. Annual fees are steep. The American Express Platinum now costs about $895 a year, and Chase’s Sapphire Reserve runs roughly $795, according to The Wall Street Journal. Ultra-premium cards like the Amex Centurion charge thousands more.

Time is the hidden expense. Comparing cards can take hours, and managing perks requires ongoing effort. According to Kiplinger.com, about 40% of card benefits go unused. 

Nick Maggiulli of Dollars and Data argues that, for most people, the payoff is not worth the hassle unless rewards are a hobby.

A simpler strategy works better. Choose one card with benefits you will actually use. If you shop on Amazon, a Prime card delivers automatic rewards. If you travel often, a travel card may be worth the effort.

The best rewards card is not the flashiest. It is the one that fits your life.


  HARHouston Housing Market Review

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

MORE HOMES HIT THE HOUSTON MARKET IN FEBRUARY AS PRICES MODERATE

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


The Pet Advantage For Mind And Mood

Owning a pet may do more than brighten your day. It could also help keep your mind sharp. A study from the American Academy of Neurology found that long-term pet ownership is associated with better cognitive health and happiness.

The study analyzed data from more than 1,300 adults in the University of Michigan’s Health and Retirement Study. According to CNN, the strongest benefits appeared among people who had owned a pet for five years or more.

Dogs and cats were the most common pets studied, but people who owned birds, fish, or reptiles also showed cognitive benefits, suggesting companionship in many forms can be helpful.

Researchers emphasize that the findings show an association, not proof of cause and effect. However, prior research shows pet ownership can reduce stress, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, which may support brain health.


America’s Favorite Diva: The Honeycrisp

The most popular apple in America isn’t just a fruit; it’s a full-blown diva. One farmer told The Wall Street Journal it’s the most finicky apple on the market, and Honeycrisp wears that reputation proudly.

With its super-sweet flavor, razor-sharp crunch, and delicate, paper-thin skin, the Honeycrisp delivers star power in every bite. It’s a showstopper, and it knows it.

But glamour comes at a cost. That thin skin punctures easily, forcing farmers to harvest each apple by hand. Honeycrisps loathe storage, bruise at the slightest mishandling, and require constant monitoring for disease. To achieve their signature red-pink glow, each apple is wrapped in reflective sheeting, essentially a couture jacket for fruit.

High maintenance? Absolutely. Worth it? The public answered with a yes. Honeycrisp has surged past Red and Golden Delicious, Gala, Granny Smith, and Fuji to become the undisputed apple of our eye.


SL: The 1 Spring Cleaning Chore That You Should Never, Ever Skip

Bedding in linen closetFrom Southern Living, “Start with it first for a successful cleaning season.

As much as I dread the coming of spring cleaning season, I can admit that it is almost always much-needed. Things pile up, tasks are put off, and the holidays exhaust us all enough to skip over the more odious household chores for a while. 

When it comes to my relationship with cleaning, I prefer when my home is clean and clutter-free at all times—at least upon a surface-level look—but that only means that certain problem areas remain not quite so perfect, albeit hidden away. It seems to me, for a successful spring cleaning marathon, there is one task that needs to happen first in order to set yourself and your home up for a year-long success. 

For more go to:  The 1 Spring Cleaning Chore To Never Skip


Tiny Dog, Ancient Wolf

Your dog may be more wolf than you think. Research from scientists at the Smithsonian and the American Museum of Natural History shows that most dogs living today still carry traces of wolf DNA.

Dogs are believed to have diverged from wolves about 20,000 years ago, and that ancient connection remains visible in some breeds. Purpose-bred wolfdogs, such as the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog and Saarloos Wolfdog, have the highest levels of wolf ancestry, with 23 to 40 percent of their genomes linked to wolves.

Wolf DNA is more common in larger and working breeds, such as sled and hunting dogs, but size alone does not tell the whole story. Large guardian breeds, think Neapolitan Mastiff and Bullmastiff, show no detectable wolf ancestry, while even the tiny Chihuahua carries about 0.2 percent.

Terriers, gundogs, and scent hounds tend to have the lowest levels of wolf ancestry on average.

So whether big or small, many dogs seems to carry a little echo of the wild.


What Did They Predict In The 1950s

The 1950s were a different world than today, but to some, the future world was clear.

“Here is my prophecy: In its final development, the telephone will be carried about by the individual, perhaps as we carry a watch today,” said Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company director Mark R. Sullivan in 1953.

Remember how we had to be in front of the TV at the exact time the show was broadcast? Well, RCA’s David Sarnoff knew that wouldn’t last. In 1959, he predicted a television recorder and TV sets as thin as a picture frame. Right on both.

 Before that, in 1948, Dr. Cleo Burnett predicted that we would one day put a radio on the wrist and by 1960, Bell Labs predicted that TV could be on a watch. Both predictions have more or less come true with smart phones and smart watches.

In 1959, Parade magazine worried that the future would be so automated that people would struggle with boredom, as even cars would drive themselves. Given the kids’ current fixation on devices, boredom isn’t the problem — but the self-driving car is here.


SL: 28 Houston Restaurants To Be Honored As ‘Legacy’ Icons

Deli sandwich from Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen.From Southern Living, “Preservation Houston, a non-profit historic preservation organization, has launched a new program recognizing long-standing, family-owned restaurants in the city.

Mom-and-pop restaurants are the heart and soul of the South, especially in a sprawling food city like Houston. While we love to celebrate emerging chefs and new restaurants, it’s extra special to honor the stalwarts that have stood the test of time.

This is exactly what Preservation Houston, a non-profit historic preservation organization, is aiming to do with their new program called Savoring History: Houston’s Legacy Restaurants.

“This program celebrates restaurants that have helped define Houston’s identity,” said Jennifer Kapral, executive director of Preservation Houston in a press release. “These establishments are more than businesses. They are cultural anchors where memories are made, traditions are sustained and neighborhoods find their heart.”

Earlier this month the organization announced 28 restaurants across the city that will be recognized in the program’s inaugural class, ranging from an iconic pie shop to beloved tacos. We’re sure you’ll recognize some of your longtime favorites, and perhaps discover a few new places to dine next time you’re in town.”

For more go to: 28 Houston Restaurants To Be Honored As “Legacy” Icons


Exhausted After A Family Vacation?

Here’s a secret: Going on vacation with the kids is a lot of work. Parents are often exhausted after being full-time nannies, swim or snow board instructors, drivers, and entertainment directors. And they have spent a lot of money.

Family vacations can be defeated by expectations that are too high. One kid gets sick, another gets testy, and everyone decides they don’t really like the resort.

All that having been said, it’s time to plan your annual vacation with the family.

Don’t go far, especially with small kids. Kids can’t tell the difference between a beach in Florida and one in Bali. Choose something close.

Go someplace the kids will love. Forget the museum. Just go to that splash park and let the kids frolic.

Let the kids eat cake and burgers. Don’t expect the kids to enjoy that great sushi restaurant you heard about. Just let them stay up late and eat stuff they can’t eat at home.

Let them use their devices. It’s a journey. So what if they want to watch the same movie 400 times!


March 2026 Trivia Answers

March Question:  What famous scientist was born on March 14th, also known as Pi Day?

Answer: Albert Einstein

Winner: Missie Elliott

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!

April 2026 Trivia Questions

Question: What meteor shower peaks annually in April?

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