What Bees Can Teach Us About Longevity

Thousands of years ago, ancient Egyptians sealed jars of honey inside tombs built for pharaohs. According to one famous story, archaeologists later uncovered some of that honey and found it still edible. While historians debate whether that exact discovery ever happened, the science behind it is completely real: Honey is one of the few foods on Earth that can last for centuries.

What makes honey so remarkable is that nature designed it to protect itself. It contains almost no water, which means bacteria and microorganisms cannot survive inside it. Honey is also naturally acidic, creating another barrier against spoilage. Even the bees contribute to its preservation. As they transform nectar into honey, enzymes in their bodies produce compounds like hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid, both of which help stop bacterial growth.

That same chemistry made honey valuable long before modern medicine existed. Ancient civilizations used honey to treat wounds and burns because it could help prevent infection.

Sumerian records from 1900 BC even mention honey as a healing treatment, showing that people recognized its value thousands of years ago.

What makes honey fascinating is not just that it lasts, but why it lasts. Its strength comes from every element working together with precision and purpose.

There is a lesson in that. The things that endure are rarely loud or complicated. They are built on strong foundations, protected at their core, and designed to stand the test of time.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

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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:

COMING SOON LISTINGS:

• 21018 Shelbyville in Long Meadow Farms – Richmond (77407)
• 16217 Capri in Jersey Village – City of Jersey Village (77040)
• 15902 Jersey Dr in Jersey Village – City of Jersey Village (77040)
• 3131 Cummins #54 in Greenway Plaza – Houston  (77027) – lease

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 826 Ivory Ridge in Green Trails – (77094) – FOR SALE – $678,500  – www.har.com/17620058 – 2-story, 3557sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. *STUNNING HOME* *AMAZING LOCATION* Timeless classic built by Trendmaker in the heart of Green Trails. Roof (2015); 2 zoned HVACs; Brick & Hardie; Gutters; Double pane windows; Int paint (2026); LVP flooring throughout much of 1st floor & staircase (2026); Carpet (2026); Updated lighting & ceiling fans. Refinished leaded glass door (2026). Elegant foyer w/ soaring ceiling & sweeping staircase. Study w/ French doors. Formal dining. Island kitchen w/ quartz (2026), downdraft gas stovetop, oven (2026), MW (2026), freshly painted cabinets (2026). Spacious family rm w/ gas log FP & wall of windows. 1st flr primary suite w/ sitting area w/ FP. Updated Primary bath: 2 vanities w/ quartz (2026), jetted tub w/ new tilework (2026), oversized tiled walk-in shower w/ glass door (2026), & large WIC. 2nd flr: Gmrm, 3 sizeable bdrms, generous closets, & 2 full baths. Covered patio & freestanding wooden pergola – great for entertaining. Full sprinkler sys. 3-car det garage w/ expanded drive. 
• 7707 Stone Arbor in Greatwood – (77479) – FOR SALE – $649,900  – www.har.com/36641001 – 2-story, 3501sqft, home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. *GORGEOUS HOME in the heart of GREATWOOD* Relax in private backyard oasis w/ heated pool & spa w/ Pebbletec finish, flagstone waterfalls, Travertine deck, outdoor kitchen w/ gas grill & copper awning. Step into this timeless classic w/ elegant curved staircase, formal living & dining rms. Matte-finished wood flrs. Island kitchen w/ granite, double ovens, gas cooktop, LARGE pantry. Family rm w/ gas log FP & built-ins. Study w/ French doors OR 4th Bdrm w/ full bath (1st flr). 2nd flr Primary Suite w/ exec bath w/ 2 sinks, sep shower, jetted tub, & 2 walk-in closets. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 2 secondary bdrms w/ Jack & Jill bath. Amenities: Roof (2020); Energy efficient double pane windows; LED lighting & ceiling fans (2023), fiberglass blown insulation, 2-zoned HVACs (2nd flr unit: compressor & furnace 2022 / evaporator coil 2024); Smart thermostats; Water heaters (2023 & 2025); Woven cloth shades, tray ceilings, crown molding. Oversized insulated garage. Full sprinkler system. YouTube Video
• 16405 Smith St in Jersey Village – (77040) – FOR SALE – $469,900  – www.har.com/56469455 – 2-story, 3294sqft home with 3 or 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2-car garage. *REMARKABLE* Traditional English Tudor-style home nestled beneath mature shade trees on a quiet street in the heart of Jersey Village. NEVER FLOODED. Roof (2023); brick & Hardie exterior; 3-zoned HVACs; copper piping; tile & wood laminate (NO carpet). Versatile floorplan offers SPACIOUS 1st flr Game Rm w/ spiral staircase leading to loft & private Study—ideal for a home office or hobbies. 1st flr Primary Bdrm w/ 2 closets & remodeled spa bath (2021) w/ dual sinks, standalone tub & walk-in shower. Family Rm w/ floor-to-ceiling brick gas log FP, vaulted beamed ceiling, & windows overlooking yard. Dining Rm w/ wet bar. Kitchen w/ hardwood cabinetry & quartz. 2nd flr: 2 large bdrms w/ walk-in closets, EACH w/ its own updated ensuite bath (Baths #2 & #3). “Flex” Space could easily become Bdrm #4. Utility w/ gas & elec conn. Covered pergola overlooks fenced backyard. Sprinklers. Det 2-car garage.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan  / YouTube Video
• 14618 N. Eldridge Parkway in Hunterwood Forest – (77070) – NEW PRICE – $389,900  – www.har.com/6193592 – 2-story, 3280sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2-car garage. *TIMELESS CLASSIC* Longtime owners selling beloved, beautifully maintained French-style home w/ 4 bdrms, 3.5 baths, 2-car det garage in the heart of Hunterwood. Circular driveway provides abundant off-street parking. Roof (2015); Whole-house PEX re-pipe (2016); 2 zoned HVAC systems; Water heater (2025). Designed for the way families truly live. Elegant curved staircase. Private study. Kitchen w/ granite, glass cooktop, convec oven, under-cab lighting, & ample cabinetry. Spacious Family Rm w/ gas log FP & view of backyard. Formal dining or 2nd study. 1st flr Owner’s retreat w/ 2 sinks, garden tub, shower, & 2 walk-in closets. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 3 sizeable bdrms, 2 full baths. Bdrm #2 could be a 2nd primary or guest suite w/ ensuite bath. Backyard retreat w/ large covered patio, lush landscaping, sprinklers, & fully fenced backyard. Never flooded. Neighborhood pool, tennis, & more. Close to shopping, restaurants, & schools. Ready for its next chapter. Perhaps that chapter begins with you.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
• 16217 Lakeview in Jersey Village – (77040) –  NEW PRICE – $429,999  – www.har.com/50682931 – 2-story, 2518sqft home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. *CHARMING* Longtime owners of 23yrs selling their beloved home. Amenities: Roof (2016); Double pane windows (2008); Whole-house generator (2011); High-efficiency HVAC (AC 2009 & heater 2022); Blown insulation; Replaced w/ copper plumbing (95%); Hardie board siding on house; Garage door (2020); Exterior workshop or shed w/ electric, insulation, window AC; Ring doorbell & camera sys; & MORE. Wood-like tile flrs in formal living & dining. Kitchen w/ Silestone, under-cab lighting, double convection ovens (2011), DW (2023), & lighted pantry. Spacious family rm w/ wood-burning brick FP w/ gas & wall of windows. 1st flr primary w/ remodeled bath w/ 2 vanities, 2 walk-in closets, & shower (2007). Utility W&D incl. 2nd flr: 3 bdrms, generous closets, & updated bath (2006). Det 2-car garage + carport (GREAT COVERED PATIO &/OR PICKUP TRUCK PARKING!) Pool-sized backyard w/ mature shade trees. Sprinkler sys. Natural gas grill.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
• 15310 Philippine in Jersey Village – (77040) –  NEW PRICE – $497,500  – www.har.com/29955652 – 1-story with 2655sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. *STUNNING* Gorgeous 1-story home elevated out of the 100-yr flood plain in 2025. Roof w/ architectural shingles & gutters (2024); high-efficiency 16-SEER HVAC (2019); Ace Duraflow epoxy coated pipes (2007); kitchen & 2 full baths updated (2016); circular driveway; iron driveway gate; re-graded yard & new sprinkler sys (2025); & more! Behind 2-car garage (522sqft), BONUS FLEX SPACE (492sqft) features dedicated HVAC, water heater, 1/2 bath, plush carpeting, & plumbing for future full bath. Incredible versatility for home office, gym, gameroom, or future MIL apt/quarters conversion. Island kitchen w/ granite, under-cab lighting, ample cabinetry, 2 pantries. Formal living & dining. SPACIOUS family w/ vaulted ceiling & stacked stone gas/wood FP. Primary Suite w/ 2 sinks, oversized shower, jetted tub, & 2 closets. GENEROUS CLOSET & STORAGE SPACE! Study/Bdrm #4 w/ French doors. Refrig incl. Ideal location for commuters w/ easy access to 290 @ Bltwy 8. Walking distance to JVHS & Post Elem.   Homes.com 3-D Floorplan  /  YouTube Video

PENDING SALES:

• 312 Travis St in Downtown Richmond – (77469) – FOR SALE – $174,900 – www.har.com/10014370 – 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

AUGUST SOLDS / LEASED:

• 9311 Cantata Ct in Woodwind Lakes – (77040) –  FOR LEASE – – $2,350 a month  – www.har.com/67694690 – 1-story cottage-style home with 1692sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage. ***AVAILABLE 6/15*** Lovely Victorian nestled on a quiet street in the GATED community of Woodwind Lakes. Built by David Weekley. Energy efficient Daikn HVAC sstem (furnace & AC) 2025. Home features a front porch – perfect for rockers. Formal Dining/Study. Island Kitchen w/ granite, elec range, MW, DW, breakfast bar, & pantry. Refrigerator, washer, & dryer incl. Spacious Living w/ gas log FP & windows overlooking back. Wood laminate flooring, High ceilings & Crown molding. Primary Bdrm w/ French doors to yard, ensuite bath w/ 2 sinks, shower & garden tub, & walk-in closet. 2 secondary bdrms w/ carpet & full bath w/ vessel sink & tub shower. Fully fenced yard. Alarm. 2-car garage w/ openers & 2-car wide drive. Woodwind Lake amenities: Lake & walking trail, swimming pool, playground, etc. Pets considered on case-by-case basis. No smokers.  YouTube Video
• 5211 Lamonte in Mangum Manor – (77092) – FOR SALE – $245,900  – www.har.com/17259759 – 1-story, 1568sqft home with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1-car garage. *LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION!* Charming 3 bedroom home in Mangum Manor featuring timeless 4-sided brick construction, ROOF REPLACED 2022, & freshly painted (2026)! Original HARDWOOD FLOORS flow through much of home. Flexible floorplan offers generous Living, versatile Dining, & Bedroom #3 that could also serve as a Study. Bonus Room off the Primary Bedroom is ideal for a Office, Nursery, Exercise or Hobby Room & features a lighted walk-in closet with access to the Utility Room. Kitchen offers gas range, microwave, dishwasher, & functional U-shaped design ready for your personal updates. Pavered patio overlooks fully fenced backyard with plenty of room to garden, play, or entertain. 1-car attached garage. Low tax rate, voluntary HOA & convenient access to Hwy 290, Loop 610, shopping, restaurants, & walking distance to Wainwright Elementary. Whether you choose to enjoy it just as it is or make updates over time, this home offers the flexibility to create a space that’s uniquely your own.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan  / YouTube Video
  

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Open House schedule for September:

SAT 9/12 – 826 Ivory Ridge in Green Trails (Katy – 77094) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Green Trails (Katy) 

SUN 9/13 – 21018 Shelbyville in Long Meadow Farms (Richmond – 77407) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Long Meadow Farms (Richmond) 

SAT 9/19 – 14618 N. Eldridge Parkway in Hunterwood (Cypress North – 77070) – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Hunterwood Forest (Cypress North)

SUN 9/20 – Jersey Village Collaborative Open House & JV Farmers Market: 16405 Smith St, 16217 Lakeview, 15310 Philippine, 15902 Jersey Dr – Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in the City of JV.  

SAT 9/26 – 7707 Stone Arbor in Greatwood (Sugar Land – 77479) Coordinate a collaborative open house with other listing agents in Greatwood (Sugar Land)  

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Plant Now For A Colorful Spring

Dreaming of bright blooms and a welcoming front yard next spring? Early fall is the perfect time to get started. September and October offer cooler temperatures and warm soil, creating ideal conditions for planting bulbs and shrubs before winter arrives.

Classic spring favorites like crocuses, tulips, and daffodils thrive in most well-draining soils and reward gardeners with some of the earliest color of the season. When planting bulbs, pay attention to their shape. Teardrop-shaped bulbs should be planted with the pointed end facing up and the wider end down. Not sure which side is which? Plant the bulb sideways. Nature usually finds a way.

Planting depth matters, too. Bulbs planted upside down often use too much energy trying to reach the surface, which can reduce or prevent blooming. After planting, give them a healthy start with bulb fertilizer to encourage strong roots and vibrant flowers.

If your daffodils produced leaves this year but no blooms, overcrowding may be the culprit. Over time, bulbs multiply underground and compete for nutrients and space. Fall is the ideal time to dig them up, gently separate the clusters, and replant them with more room to grow.

Another common reason bulbs fail to bloom is cutting foliage back too early. Those green leaves are more than just leftover growth. They collect sunlight and store energy for next year’s flowers. Allow foliage to yellow naturally or wait at least six weeks after flowering before trimming it away.

Fall is also one of the best seasons to plant new shrubs. Cooler weather reduces stress on young plants while roots continue developing underground. For best results, plant shrubs at least six weeks before the first hard frost so they have time to establish before winter settles in.

A little effort this fall can transform your landscape into a colorful, thriving garden next spring.

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September 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: September Events in Houston 2026

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in September

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

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

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Fall Means Yellow Jacket Season

Yellow jackets become much more active in the fall as their natural food supply disappears, sending them in search of sweet drinks, barbecue foods, and trash bins. That is why they are a common sight at outdoor gatherings this time of year.

Unlike bees, yellow jackets can sting multiple times. Most stings cause temporary pain and swelling, but some people may experience serious allergic reactions, including breathing problems or dizziness. They are also known for their fast, darting flight patterns and bright yellow and black markings.

To avoid trouble, keep food covered, seal trash containers, and stay calm if one flies nearby. With a little caution, you can still enjoy the fall season without unwanted stings.

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Celebrate Community On Good Neighbor Day

In a world filled with texts, posts, and notifications, National Good Neighbor Day on September 28 is a reminder that some of the most important connections are right next door.

Being a good neighbor does not require grand gestures. Sometimes it starts with something simple: a smile, a wave, or a friendly hello. Welcoming a new neighbor with a homemade treat or offering a helping hand can turn strangers into friends.

Good neighbors also help create safe, welcoming communities. Keeping yards tidy, controlling pet noise, and respecting shared spaces all make a difference. Small acts of consideration can improve an entire neighborhood.

This day is also a great opportunity to check in on elderly neighbors, offer help with yard work, or simply let someone know you are there if they need assistance. Communities grow stronger when neighbors look out for one another.

As fall arrives, consider hosting a cookout, planning a neighborhood gathering, or organizing a Fall Harvest event for local families. Good Neighbor Day is more than a celebration. It is a reminder that kindness close to home can have a lasting impact.

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Monthly Recipe: Chicken Piccata Meatballs

From Southern Living, “This recipe Is so good readers are making double batches.

These meatballs don’t miss!

I’m not usually a fan of chicken meatballs. They so easily become dry thanks to how lean the protein is, and require a lot of seasoning to make them taste like anything. Our Chicken Piccata Meatballs prove great ground chicken recipes can exist though–and I’m not the only one saying so. Southern Living readers are so enamored with the buttery lemon sauce in this recipe, they’re doubling it. “

For more and the recipe go to:  Chicken Piccata Meatballs

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Make Your Phone Last Longer

Smartphones are more expensive than ever. Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro lineup starts around $1,000, while premium foldable phones like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series can cost well over $2,000. The good news? You do not need a new phone every two years. A few smart habits can help your device last longer, save you money, and reduce electronic waste.

Here’s how to keep your phone running like new for years:

Keep it away from extreme heat and cold. Batteries perform best at room temperature.

Leaving your phone in a hot car or freezing weather can permanently reduce battery life.

Stop charging it all night long. Constantly keeping your battery at 100% puts extra stress on it over time. Charging in shorter bursts during the day is better for long-term battery health.

Replace the battery before replacing the phone. A weak battery does not mean your phone is done for. Battery replacement services and repair kits are often far cheaper than buying a brand-new device.

Clean the charging port regularly. Dust and pocket lint can quietly build up and block charging connections. A careful cleaning can solve many charging problems instantly.

Protect it from drops and scratches. A sturdy case and screen protector can prevent expensive damage and help your phone keep its resale value.

Install software updates. Updates improve security, fix bugs, and help your phone run smoothly. Turning on automatic updates is one of the easiest ways to keep your device healthy.

Holding onto your phone for an extra year or two can save you hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars over time. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

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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®

MORE LISTINGS, STEADY DEMAND ACROSS HOUSTON IN JULY

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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Wake Up Less, Cramp Less

Nighttime leg cramps affect nearly 60 percent of older adults and are often triggered by dehydration, low potassium or magnesium, prolonged sitting, muscle fatigue, or certain medications such as statins and water pills.

Simple habits may help reduce the pain. Stay hydrated in the evening, stretch your calves and hamstrings before bed, and keep moving throughout the day to improve circulation. Potassium-rich foods like bananas, spinach, avocados, and sweet potatoes may also support healthy muscle function.

If cramps happen often or become severe, talk to your doctor. Persistent cramping can sometimes be linked to kidney or thyroid problems or medication side effects.

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The Power Of Volunteering

Helping others does more than strengthen communities. Research shows volunteering can also reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and create a stronger sense of purpose. Scientists say the greatest benefits come from regular, face-to-face volunteer work that connects people with those outside their everyday circles.

Even with these benefits, relatively few people volunteer consistently. Many say they simply do not have enough time. Yet studies comparing volunteers and non-volunteers have found little difference in how much free time they actually have. Often, the biggest challenge is taking the first step.

Interestingly, many volunteers say they considered getting involved for years before finally doing it. Once they started, however, they discovered the experience was rewarding in ways they never expected.

Surveys also show more people would volunteer if opportunities were easier to access through workplaces, schools, and community programs. Making volunteering part of everyday life could benefit not only communities, but also the health and happiness of the people giving their time.

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SL: 6 Places To Donate Kitchen Items You No Longer Need

From Southern Living, “Give your used cookware a second life.

Dishes, utensils, serving bowls, small appliances, and other kitchen items you rarely use take up valuable real estate in kitchen cabinets, where space can be pretty limited. If you still haven’t used the onion goggles or bagel slicer you got for a Christmas present a decade ago or that big juicer you had to put on your wedding registry, chances are good you never will. Decluttering your cabinets and drawers to make room for the things you actually do use can free up much-needed space—and you’ll finally be able to open drawers and find what you need. After some decluttering, you may have a lot of items that are still plenty usable, just not in your kitchen. The pasta maker you tried and realized you just didn’t have time for or the holiday Bundt pans you rarely use could make a good addition to someone else’s kitchen. Clean out your cabinets and give those unused items a new home. Here’s where to donate kitchen items so someone else can cook up something special.”

For more go to:  Donate Kitchen Items You No Longer Need

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The Secret To Better AI Results

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool, but the quality of the output depends on the quality of the prompt. Clear instructions help AI produce more accurate, useful, and professional responses.

Specific prompts work best. Instead of asking AI to “write about taxes,” ask for “a  400-word overview of tax deductions for small business owners.” The more detail you provide, the better the result.

It also helps to give AI context. Prompts like “You are an experienced marketer” or “You are a CPA” help shape the tone and expertise of the response. Defining the audience matters too. You can ask AI to write for beginners, business owners, or industry professionals.

You can even tell AI what to avoid, such as jargon, storytelling, or overly casual language.

AI works best when treated like a tool that follows direction.

The clearer the instructions, the stronger the results.

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September Is National Preparedness Month

Every September, National Preparedness Month is a good reminder to make sure your household is ready for the unexpected. Storms and power outages rarely give much warning, but a little planning now can make all the difference.

Start with a basic emergency kit: at least three days of water (one gallon per person per day), nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and any needed medications. Keep it somewhere everyone can find quickly.

Make a simple family plan. Agree on how you will reach one another if separated, where you will meet, and what to do with pets. Write down key phone numbers in case a cell phone dies.

Finally, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replace old batteries, and learn where your water and gas shutoffs are. Preparedness is not about fear; it is peace of mind.

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The Simple Joys of Apple Picking

Few things capture early fall like a trip to the orchard. As the weather cools and the leaves turn, apple-picking season is a perfect excuse to get outside and make memories with family and friends.

It is also a wonderfully affordable outing. Most orchards charge by the bag or pound, and one visit can supply weeks of snacks and homemade treats. Kids love the hunt for the perfect apple, and everyone gets a little exercise.

Back home, the possibilities are endless. Pie and crisp are always crowd-pleasers, but fresh apples also shine in salads, oatmeal, or homemade applesauce. A batch of warm cinnamon apples can make the whole house smell like autumn.

If you have never made a tradition of it, this is a great year to start. A crisp morning, a full bag of apples, and good company are a simple recipe for one of the season’s best days.

SL: We Thought This Quiet Texas Town Would Be A Quick Stop—It Turned Into The Highlight Of Our Weekend

From Southern Living, “This overlooked town between Houston and San Antonio surprised us with a charming downtown, unexpected attractions, and plenty to fill a weekend.

My family and I were camping near Columbus, which is about 70 miles west of Houston. We’d rented a cabin along the Colorado River, and our weekend plans included swimming. Then a rumor started circulating through the campground about an alligator sighting in the river. Best-case scenario, I’m always a little leery of murky water where you can’t see what else might be sharing a piece of the great outdoors with you. The possibility of an alligator swimming with us nixed those plans, so we decided to head into Columbus, roughly halfway between Houston and San Antonio along Interstate-10. We’d passed the exit many times before and figured this was as good an afternoon as any to see what was there.

What we found was much more than a Plan B. Columbus turned out to be one of those small towns that rewards curiosity, with a walkable historic downtown, quirky attractions, good local restaurants, and enough discoveries to make us wonder why we’d never stopped before.”

For more go to: Weekend Trip To Columbus, Texas

 

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August 2026 Trivia Answers

March Question:  How many hearts does an octopus have? 

Answer: Three 

Winner: Lilia Fabry 

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!

September 2026 Trivia Questions

Question: What is the only mammal capable of true flight? 

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