A Little Extra
A man always bought oranges from a woman at the town market. She would weigh them on a scale, place them in a bag, and tell him the price. After he paid, the man usually took one orange out of the bag, peeled it, and tasted one piece. Then he’d say, “This orange is sour,” and hand it back to the woman.
Then she would bite into it. “It tastes sweet to me,” she always said, but she gave him a few extra oranges to make up for it.
The man’s wife went to the market with him every day and saw this exchange happen time after time. One day she asked her husband, “Why do you do that every time? The oranges are always sweet.”
The man replied, “That woman hardly eats. This way I get her to eat one orange a day for her health.”
A merchant in a vegetable stall saw the exchange happen every day, too. One day she asked the woman, “Why do you let him get away with that? He always complains about your oranges, and you always give him extra. Why do you put up with it?”
The woman smiled and said, “He always pays me a little extra when I weigh his bag. That way he can feed me and pretend I don’t know what he’s doing. His love pays for the extra orange.”
~ 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:
- 235 W. 30th in Garden Oaks – (77018) – FOR LEASE $2,200 – www.har.com/43229268 – 1-story, built 1940, 1170sqft, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, & a study that could easily serve as a 3rd bdrm. Interior freshly painted. Tenant’s income must make 3 to 4 times monthly rent ($6,300+ month). No smokers. Pets on case-by-case basis ($250 per pet pet deposit). Landlord looking for 650+ credit, good rental history, good employment, & no collections. Proof of renter’s insurance will be required. Video: https://youtu.be/PJ1hEdZ-JnQ
- 7815 Kellwood in Woodland Oaks – (77040) – FOR SALE $229,000 – www.har.com/88848534 – 1-story, 996sqft, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 2 car garage. NEVER FLOODED. Roof (2023), Furnace (2023), AC ductwork (2023), Walk-in shower (2024), Tile flooring throughout, Solid wood interior doors, Camera system. Inviting porch & handcrafted front door. Kitchen with granite-looking laminate countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel refrigerator, gas range, venthood microwave, dishwasher, & pantry. Breakfast bar. Full bath with remodeled shower with dual showerheads, glass block window, vessel sink. 2-car garage with large storage closet. Utility area in garage. Fully fenced backyard w/ large covered patio Video: https://youtu.be/GAFolbwQYoU
- 19430 Mystic Cypress in Cypress Point – (77449) – PRICE REDUCTION $298,300 – www.har.com/98818961 – 1-story, 1760sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. COMPLETELY UPDATED. Foundation with transferrable warranty, new roof, high-efficiency HVAC system, LVP flooring, Quartz countertops in kitchen & baths, stainless steel kitchen appliances incl refrigerator, commodes, interior paint, recessed lighting, ceiling fans, 2-in blinds, 2-sides backyard fence. Energy efficient double pane windows, PEX plumbing, on-demand water heater, & water softener. READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN! Video: https://youtu.be/ppyfq447xtw
- 18015 Mountfield in Deerfield Village – (77084) – FOR SALE $355,000 – www.har.com/18615067 – 2-story, 2811sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage. Tudor-style home on quiet cul-de-sac lot. PEX plumbing (2019). Exterior paint (2024). Fencing (2023 & 2025), Recessed lighting. Kitchen with granite, tile backsplash, under-cab lighting, 5-burner glasstop cooktop (2024), MW, convection oven, & refrigerator. Spacious family rm with fireplace, wall of windows with lots of natural light. Formal dining. Formal living with vaulted ceiling, wood beams, & leaded glass windows could be large study or gameroom. 1st floor owner’s suite with 2 sinks, tiled walk-in shower, & 2 walk-in closets. Upstairs: 3 impressive secondary bedrooms with generous closet space & full bath w/ tons of storage. READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN! Video: https://youtu.be/RgYMJQqkkxY
- 8309 Koester in Jersey Village (77040) – PRICE REDUCTION $469,900 – www.har.com/34241337 – 2-story, 3061, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, & 4-car detached garage. Double pane Low-E windows, Plantation shutters; 2-zoned HVACs (upstairs HVAC 2023), Updated kitchen with quartz, stainless steel appliances, 2 Primary Suites (1st & 2nd floor), Interior paint, Porcelain tile/Distressed wood laminate/Carpet, Updated lighting & more! Video: https://youtu.be/-14FQUf28ZQ
- 15610 Township Glen in Fairfield – (77433) – FOR SALE $529,000 – www.har.com/71102944 – 2-story, 3520sqft, 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2 car garage. Home has 2 bedrooms & 2 full baths on 1st floor making it ideal for multigenerational family. Boasts modern updates, including polished concrete floors, a gourmet island kitchen, & versatile gameroom. Formal dining with built-in server. Remodeled kitchen with granite, gas cooking, convection oven, stainless steel appliances. Family room with gas fireplace. 1st floor owner’s retreat. 2nd floor: 4 sizeable secondary bedrooms with generous closet/storage, 2 full baths, & gameroom. Outdoor space with flagstone patio, pergola, & bbq area. Video: https://youtu.be/h25dZHpE_s4
- 235 W. 30th in Garden Oaks – (77018) – FOR SALE $549,900 – www.har.com/31159757 – *Prime Investment Opportunity in Garden Oaks!* Unlock the potential of this 11,377 sqft. homesite, offering endless possibilities – build new, renovate, or hold for future appreciation. Nestled in the sought-after Garden Oaks community, where vintage charm meets modern convenience, this property is surrounded by new construction & offers an ideal canvas for your vision. The existing 1940s home features 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, & a study that could easily serve as a 3rd bdrm. Video: https://youtu.be/PJ1hEdZ-JnQ
- 1305 Laird in Greater Heights (77008) – FOR SALE $799,000 – www.har.com/16875149 – Built 2017, 3-story, 3660sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, & 3-car. Double pane Low-E windows, high efficiency HVAC systems, lots of natural light. Unique stair-step architectural design with multiple balconies with glass railings. Island kitchen with quartz, sleek cabinetry, stainless steel appliances. 2 Primary Suites (1st & 2nd floor), Interior paint, Porcelain tile/Distressed wood laminate/Carpet, Updated lighting & more! Video: https://youtu.be/MrSPBJmC0CU
- 5505 Hardy St in Ryon (77009) – FOR SALE $199,000 – www.har.com/3027430 – 5,000sqft lot ready to be built on. Lot is 50ft wide x 100ft deep. No HOA. No MUD. Low tax rate.
APRIL SOLD SALES:
- 5 Rocky Ln in Rolling Fork (77040) – FOR SALE $395,000 – www.har.com/46943313 – 2-story home, 2604sqft, 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths, & 2 car garage. Roof 2022. Plantation shutters, crown molding, flagstone & wood floors. Expansive family room with marble wood-burning fireplace. French-country style kitchen with gas cooking, double convection ovens, & more. All bedrooms up. Owner’s suite with remodeled bath with 2 sinks & large walk-in shower. 3 secondary bedrooms + 2 full baths. Bedroom 4 with ensuite bath could be a 2nd owner’s suite. Wooden deck with hot tub with surround sound. Backyard is great for entertaining. Camera security. Sprinkler system. Video: https://youtu.be/4utR2bfII3g
- 15806 Tenbury in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $389,900 – 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
- 8325 Rio Grande in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $429,000 – www.har.com/86293577 – 1-story, 2521sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage. Circular drive, golf course views, whole-house generator, PEX plumbing, water heater, wood-like tile flooring, updated kitchen with quartz, stainless steel appliances, updated baths with vessel sinks, walk-in shower & standalone acrylic tub, & more. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GypB8Djiuso
- 5 Parkway Place in The Park at Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $365,000 – www.har.com/6527588 – Rare 1-story patio home, 2074sqft, 3 bedroom, 2 baths, & 2 car garage in gated community of The Park. Gorgeous view of golf course, double pane windows, engineered wood floors, water softener, high ceiling, island kitchen with granite, Bosch appliances, & more. Owner’s suite with dual sink vanities, separate shower & jetted tub, & walk-in closet with organizers. Video: https://youtu.be/X1KRpROMA9A
- 4020 Heathersage in Deerfield Village – buyer – FOR SALE $275,000 – 1-story patio home, 1991sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage – www.har.com/24830693
- 18014 Spellbrook in Deerfield Village – buyer – FOR SALE $559,000 – 2-story, 3547sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3-car garage – www.har.com/56683052
FAIRFIELD SUBDIVISION-WIDE OPEN HOUSE on SAT 5/3 from 1-4PM at 15610 Township Glen in Fairfield (Cypress)
DEERFIELD VILLAGE SUBDIVISION-WIDE OPEN HOUSE on SAT 5/3 from 2-4PM at 18015 Mountfield in Deerfield village (Houston)
CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE SUBDIVISION-WIDE OPEN HOUSE on SUN 5/4 from 1-4PM at 8309 Koester (Jersey Village)
WINDSTONE AREA MULTIPLE SUBDIVISION-WIDE OPEN HOUSE on SUN 5/4 from 1-4PM at 19430 Mystic Cypress (Katy)
Monthly Recipe: Do Nothing Cake (a.k.a. Texas Tornado Cake)
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From Southern Living, “You may also know this moist and buttery cake by another name: Texas Tornado Cake.
Do Nothing Cake, as the name suggests, is quite easy—but that doesn’t mean it’s basic or boring. In fact, this cake is incredibly moist, similar to a gooey butter cake, with a topping that’s reminiscent of German chocolate cake’s iconic coconutty and pecan-rich frosting. Pineapple’s fruity-tangy flavors and loads of nutty goodness also set this cake apart from others you may have tried that seem similar. We promise, there’s nothing like this cake.
A recipe for Do Nothing Cake originated in the 1940s, before boxed cake mix existed. Back then, most cake recipes were complicated, contained lots of ingredients, and required a mixer. By contrast, this one uses fewer ingredients, does not require a mixer, and is very easy to whip up.
To give the topping a little more complexity (and to differentiate it from any other Do Nothing Cakes you may have had), I chose to brown the butter first. This takes the topping from just nutty and sweet to nutty, sweet, and caramel-rich.”
For more go to: Do Nothing Cake (Texas Tornado Cake)
Refresh Your Outdoor Space With A Container Garden
A container garden is an easy way to add color and life to your outdoor space, whether you live in a house or an apartment. Strategically placed, it enhances both indoor and outdoor views.
Here are some expert tips from the Horticulture Gardening Institute at Michigan State University:
- Pick compatible plants. Choose ones with similar sun, shade, and watering needs.
- Blend blooms and foliage. Use long-blooming flowers and textured greenery for variety.
- Water wisely. Depending on the container size, material, and weather, the garden might need daily or twice-daily watering.
With a little care, your container garden can become a beautiful, low-maintenance retreat.
May 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: May Events in Houston 2025
Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in May
Kids Out and About.com: May activities in & around Houston
101 Family Day Trips Around Houston
The Surprising Science Of Luck
Psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman studied “lucky” and “unlucky” people for more than a decade. His research found that luck isn’t just fate; it’s a mindset. “Lucky” people tend to share four key traits:
- They notice opportunities. In an experiment, participants counted photos in a newspaper. The “lucky” ones spotted a hidden message saying, “Stop counting. There are 43 photos.” The “unlucky” ones missed it.
- They trust their intuition. Neuroscientific studies suggest “lucky” people process patterns subconsciously and make quick, accurate decisions.
- They expect good things. Optimistic people take more risks, persist longer, and create their own opportunities.
- They turn bad things into good things. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, “lucky” people reframe challenges and seek new paths.
Can you become luckier? Science says yes. Here’s how:
- Make efforts to meet new people and expand your social circle. Many lucky breaks spring from casual acquaintances who introduce new opportunities.
- Embrace the unexpected. Changing routines increases chance encounters and fresh opportunities.
- Visualize success. A study in Psychological Science found that vividly imagining positive outcomes makes them more likely to happen.
Luck: Random Or Designed?
While pure chance plays a role, everyday luck is shaped by our thoughts, actions, and openness to new possibilities. In other words, luck isn’t just something that “happens” to you. It can be cultivated by adopting a mindset that welcomes opportunities, trusts intuition, and stays resilient in the face of challenges.
SL: How To Clean Your Headphones Or Earbuds Without Ruining Them
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Doing Absolutely Nothing
Imagine this: You’re sitting on your couch, staring out the window, and doing…nothing. No phone in your hand. No emails being answered. No laundry being folded “while you relax.” Just you, the moment and maybe the sound of a bird that seems to have its entire life figured out.
Now, be honest: Did your brain just revolt? Did it whisper,
“But I should be doing something productive?”
We’ve been trained to believe that stillness is wasted time; every minute must be optimized, every hobby should be turned into a side hustle, and every pocket of the day must be filled with something useful. But what if absolutely nothing is the most useful thing you do?
The Italians have a phrase for it: Dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing. It’s not laziness; it’s an art or even a skill. It’s the ability to sit, breathe, and exist without needing to check, achieve, or accomplish anything.
When was the last time you let your mind wander without guiding it toward a task? When was the last time you allowed yourself to be bored, truly bored, without reaching for a screen to fill the silence?
Science has proven that our best ideas seem to come to us when we aren’t trying.
Creativity thrives in stillness. Stress melts away when we stop chasing the next thing.
So, here’s your challenge: Find five minutes today to do absolutely nothing.
- Stare at the ceiling.
- Watch the sky change color.
- Let your coffee go cold while you hold the cup in your hands.
And don’t you dare feel guilty about it. Because in that space, in which nothing is expected of you, something wonderful happens: You remember what it’s like to simply be.
Celebrating Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 11th
The Power Of Magnesium
Magnesium doesn’t get the hype of calcium or vitamin D, but it’s one of the most essential minerals for overall health—and nearly 50% of Americans don’t get enough of it. This powerhouse nutrient supports everything from brain function to heart health, yet it’s often missing from modern diets.
Why Magnesium Matters
Better Sleep: Magnesium helps regulate melatonin, the hormone that controls sleep cycles. Studies show it improves sleep quality and reduces insomnia symptoms.
Stress And Anxiety Relief: Magnesium plays a key role in nervous system function, helps calm the body, and reduces cortisol, the stress hormone.
Muscle Heart Health: Magnesium supports muscle relaxation, prevents cramps, and helps maintain a steady heartbeat.
Stronger Bones: While calcium gets most of the credit, magnesium is essential for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
How to Get More Magnesium
Many processed foods are stripped of magnesium, but you can boost your intake naturally by eating:
- Avocados
- Dark leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
- Dark chocolate (yes, really!)
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds and pumpkin seeds
- Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel
For those who struggle to get enough magnesium through diet, supplements, such as magnesium glycinate or citrate, can help, but always check with a doctor first.
Small changes can make a big difference—getting enough magnesium might be the simplest way to sleep better, stress less, and feel more energized.
SL: The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Texas For Your Next Trip
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From Southern Living, “Find everything from dude ranches to wellness resorts to family-friendly hotels.
“I live here now—I’m never going back,” a woman announced after leaving a meditation class recently at Miraval Austin, and we all chuckled in blissed-out agreement. Soon we’d have to return to the real world, where our daily life revolved around more than napping in hammocks, sipping lavender vanilla lattes, and ordering dessert with every meal—luxuries to which we’d become accustomed in our short stay at this all-inclusive resort.
Though Texas all-inclusives may be a bit different from their Mexican and Caribbean counterparts with open bars and expansive beaches, you might be surprised to learn that there are still quite a few options where you can check in and truly relax, with all (or most) of your meals and activities already covered in the price of your vacation. Some offer add-on packages so you have the option to include the cost of your meals with your stay.
From dude ranches to wellness resorts and family-friendly hotels, if you’re looking for a splurge vacation with minimal decision making, check out these 10 best options for Texas all-inclusive resorts.”
For more go to: 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Texas
How Nature Thrives In The Heat
Nature intensifies during summer. Every plant, animal, and ecosystem are in high gear and makes the most of the warmth before the cycle shifts again.
How Do Plants Survive The Heat?
Although the summer sun fuels growth, too much heat can be dangerous. Plants use transpiration—a process in which they release water through their leaves—to cool themselves. Some plants, such as sunflowers, track the sun throughout the day to maximize their energy intake. Meanwhile, desert plants, such as cacti, adapt by storing water and reducing their leaf surface area to minimize moisture loss.
Why Insects Rule The Summer
Have you ever noticed how mosquitoes, fireflies, and cicadas seem to take over during summer? Warmer temperatures accelerate insect metabolism, making them more active and abundant. Fireflies use the season to flash mating signals, and cicadas emerge after years of being underground and then fill the air with their unmistakable summer chorus.
The Science Of Summer Storms
Summer heat fuels powerful thunderstorms as warm air rises rapidly, cools, and then condenses into storm clouds. The clash of humid, rising air and cooler atmospheric layers creates dramatic lightning displays and sudden downpours.
Why Summer Makes Us Happier
More sunlight boosts our serotonin, the brain’s “happiness chemical”, and increased vitamin D supports our mood and energy. Studies also show that people feel more adventurous and social during summer, which likely is due to longer daylight hours and increased outdoor activity.
Every sunset, every gust of warm wind, and every distant rumble of thunder is part of an ancient rhythm that reminds us to embrace the fleeting magic of the season before it fades again.
SL: 10 Climbing Plants That Will Cover Fences In A Flash
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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 HOUSING INVENTORY BLOOMS AS SALES REBOUND IN MARCH
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
Dig In And Get Fit With Gardening
There’s nothing like digging, hoeing and planting to build muscle and lower blood pressure. If you think gardening is for weaklings, try moving those big bags of mulch!
While spending a couple of hours in the gym can quickly become tedious, the same time spent in the garden will keep you entirely entertained and burn about 340 calories an hour in the process (based on a 150-pound person). That’s almost as many calories as an aerobics class. Gardening helps your heart, makes stress fly away and connects you with the earth.
Apartment dwellers and people without yards can still enjoy the creative benefits of working with the soil. A 16-inch-deep container will hold a cherry tomato plant and some leaf lettuces. Balcony gardens can be as elaborate as you want, and a sunny window is a great place for herbs such as rosemary and basil or a bright geranium.
SL: 27 Best Restaurants In Houston To Try Now
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From Southern Living, “Check out these delicious places to eat in the Bayou City.
Houston’s food scene is one of the top draws for this major Texas city. Drawing from its Gulf Coast location and infusion of recipes from immigrants from all corners of the globe, H-town’s restaurants reflect a diversity of cuisine options and unexpected fusions that sizzle and smoke their way to your table. In fact, following his visit to the city for “Parts Unknown,” Anthony Bourdain declared Houston a “wonderland of the strange and diverse.”
Here are the 27 best places to eat in Houston that you’ll want to make time for on your next Houston food crawl.”
For more go to: 27 Best Restaurants In Houston To Try Now
Tai Chi Helps Balance
In some patients suffering from dizziness and balance disorders, tai chi exercise works when medications don’t, according to one study. It is estimated that about half of Americans experience balance difficulties with everyday tasks and have a fear of falling. Tai chi is characterized by coordination and relaxation of the joints rather than muscular tension. It has been used for centuries to promote health and well-being. A study by the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai showed that after an eight-week course of tai chi, 45 minutes per week, patients who suffered from imbalance, dizziness and vertigo showed marked improvement as measured on the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale.
April 2025 Trivia Answer
Question: Which country has the most natural lakes in the world?
Answer: Canada
Congratulations to Myrna Wansik !
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!
May 2025 Trivia Question
Question: What is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature?
Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by May 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