Our Monthly Newsletter

The Heart Of A Summer Garden

By July, the garden has found its rhythm. The early planting and patient waiting of spring give way to full color, warm sunshine, and the simple pleasure of watching flowers return year after year. Perennials are the quiet heroes of summer gardens. Once established, they come back each season stronger and fuller, bringing dependable beauty with every passing year.

Dianthus, often called “pinks,” are a classic favorite. Their soft fragrance and delicate blooms make them perfect for cottage-style gardens and small summer bouquets. They are a reminder that sometimes the smallest flowers bring the most charm.

Daylilies are another July standout. Blooming in shades of yellow, peach, red, and orange, they thrive in the summer heat. Each flower lasts only a day, but the plant produces so many that the garden always feels full of life and color.

For bold summer energy, Blanket Flower brings fiery shades of red and gold that attract butterflies and other pollinators. It thrives in sunny gardens and keeps blooming through the warmest days of the season.

Phlox adds height, fragrance, and soft clusters of color that draw birds and butterflies alike. On warm evenings, its gentle scent is one of the simple pleasures of midsummer.

A perennial garden is more than a collection of plants. It reflects patience, care, and the belief that something beautiful will return if given the chance to grow. Year after year, these flowers remind us that the best things in life often come back stronger and brighter with every season.

~ 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:

  • 14618 N. Eldridge Parkway in Hunterwood Forest – (77070) – FOR SALE – $395,000  – 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) –  COMING SOON – FOR SALE – $440,900  – www.har.com/96733438 – 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) –  FOR SALE – $514,900  – www.har.com/42955888 – 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
  • 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
  • 9311 Cantata Ct in Woodwind Lakes – (77040) –  FOR LEASE $2,500 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

PENDING SALES:

  • 3927 Heathersage in Deerfield Village – (77084) –  FOR SALE $224,900 – MULTIPLE OFFERS & UNDER CONTRACT IN 7-DAYS  – www.har.com/12317099 – 1-story patio home with 1544sqft, 2 bedrooms, study, 2 baths, & 2-car garage. *CHARMING* Rare & highly sought-after 1-story PATIO HOME in Deerfield Village—one of Houston’s best kept secrets. Fabulous floorplan w/ 2 bdrms, study, 2 baths, & 2-car garage. Tucked behind a gated courtyard entry, thoughtfully designed home w/ soaring ceilings, lots of natural light, & comfortable layout. Spacious living w/ vaulted ceiling, gas log FP, built-ins, & doors leading to an impressive screened-in porch—perfect for enjoying the outdoors year-round. Island kitchen w/ granite countertops. Study w/ built-ins & timeless woodwork. Primary w/ walk-in closet, 2 sinks, & spa-inspired walk-in shower w/ dual showerheads & ADA accessibility-minded design elements. Easy-to-maintain yard w/ mature landscaping & HOA-maintained rear fence. 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, & easy access to I-10. Low tax rate. NEVER FLOODED.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video

JUNE SOLDS / LEASED:

  • 15909 Seattle in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $419,000 – REPRESENTING BUYER, MULTIPLE OFFERS, & UNDER CONTRACT IN 5-DAYS  – www.har.com/64569019 – 1.5-story, 2413sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage, & swimming pool. Your opportunity to call this exceptional renovated home with all the bells and whistles, home! You’ll find four beds, gameroom, resort style pool, utility shed and more in sought after Jersey Village. This extensively renovated home is equipped with all the must haves including oversize sprawling backyard, covered patio, gleaming tile-like hardwoods throughout main living, chefs kitchen with seamless quartz countertops, plethora of cabinet and closet storage, fireplace, full-size utility room with pet wash station, excess natural light and transitional space. Quality and design coupled in an ideal community with easy access to all of Houston hubs and walkable to Senate Ave. Community includes it’s very own police, fire, and EMS, pool/splash pad, golf course and parks. A hard to find home with generously sized rooms, thoughtful layout, backyard retreat and boast-worthy attention to detail. A home that checks EVERY BOX! No flooding – All appliances included – Whole home generator port. 
  • 760 Nicholson in Greater Heights – (77007) –  FOR LEASE $2,825 a month – MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS  – www.har.com/95233054 – 3-story, 1565sqft, 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, study, & 2-car garage. *GORGEOUS HEIGHTS HOME* AVAILABLE MOVE-IN 6/16/26. *Never flooded* GORGEOUS David Weekley home located in a GATED COMMUNITY in the Heights. Remarkable 3-story w/ 2-car garage. Secondary bdrm w/ an en-suite bath on 1st floor. 1st floor utility. Main living area on 2nd floor w/ living, dining, kitchen, & primary suite. Island kitchen w/ granite, tiled backsplash, 42in cabinets, GE Profile appliances, gas cooktop. Open floorplan w/ SPACIOUS Living w/ soaring 2-story ceiling & wall of windows. Wood floors & crown molding. Note: Ref, W & D incl. Primary Bdrm w/ vaulted ceiling & ensuite bath w/ dual sinks, sep tiled shower & DEEP jetted tub, & LARGE walk-in closet. 3rd floor has Bdrm #3 or “flex” space w/ 2 walk-in closets (makes fantastic Study/Gameroom). Energy efficient home. Water heater 2021. IDEAL LOCATION FOR COMMUTERS! Close to neighborhood amenities: shopping, restaurants, parks, & more. Just steps away from the Heights Walking & Bike Path. NO PETS. NO SMOKERS.

***MULTIPLE OPEN HOUSES IN THE CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE (77040)*** Join us on SATURDAY, 7/11 FROM 1-4PM as listing agents collaborate to have their homes open to the public (although some may be a different times). You & your family can tour homes of varying ages, sizes, amenities, & price points. If you’ve been searching for your perfect home in the City of Jersey Village, come take a look at our incredible properties and all this community has to offer. Don’t miss this opportunity!

***MULTIPLE OPEN HOUSES IN HUNTERWOOD FOREST (77070)*** Join us on SATURDAY, 7/18 FROM 1-4PM as listing agents collaborate to have their homes open to the public (although some may be a different times). You & your family can tour homes of varying ages, sizes, amenities, & price points. If you’ve been searching for your perfect home in Hunterwood Forest, come take a look at our incredible properties and all this community has to offer. Don’t miss this opportunity!


When Parrots Pick Up The Call

Parrots are known for their intelligence and strong social nature. According to National Public Radio, these birds thrive on interaction, stimulation, and communication, which is one reason they form such strong bonds with their human families.

Researchers recently explored an interesting new way to give parrots even more opportunities to socialize. In an experiment involving 18 parrots, owners trained their birds to ring a small bell whenever they wanted to start a video chat with another parrot participating in the study.

When a parrot rang the bell, the owner held up a tablet or phone showing photos of the other birds. The parrots then used their beaks or tongues to select the companion they wanted to call. The calls allowed the birds to interact and communicate with each other in real time.

Researchers initially wondered if the birds might respond aggressively. Instead, the parrots seemed excited to connect. According to The New York Times, many quickly developed favorite companions and regularly asked for calls. During their chats they sang, danced, groomed, and even mirrored each other’s movements, behaviors commonly seen among parrots in groups in the wild.

Scientists say more research will help better understand the long-term benefits of video calls for birds. Even after the study ended, some parrots still continue to call their feathered friends for a visit.


Fitness Trackers: Helpful Coach Or Just A Reminder?

Fitness trackers can be great motivators. They count steps, track activity, monitor heart rate, and celebrate when you reach a goal. For many people, that small nudge helps encourage healthier routines and keeps daily habits on track.

But it is easy to start focusing too much on the numbers.

Sport psychology expert Michele Kerulis of Northwestern University notes that becoming overly focused on health metrics can sometimes cause people to ignore the natural signals their bodies are sending.

This summer, remember to enjoy your walks, bike rides, and time outdoors. Your fitness tracker can offer helpful reminders, but how you feel and the joy of moving matter most.


Celebrating 250 years of America’s independence

Happy Independence Day on Saturday, July 4th


4th of July in Houston: Family Friendly Fun, Fireworks and Festivities

red white and blue baloonsFrom Houston Moms: “Happy 250th America! Get ready to ignite your 4th of July spirit! From dazzling firework displays that paint the sky to exciting community parades and barbecue feasts with friends, our city has something for everyone. Here’s a fabulous list of 4th of July events in Houston and surrounding areas, so get ready to make some plans for a fun day out for the whole family!”

For more and the recipe go to:  4th of July in Houston


July 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: July Events in Houston 2026

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in July

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

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston


Picking The Right Privacy Fence

A privacy fence can completely change how a yard feels. It can create a quiet space to relax, give pets and kids room to play, and add a sense of comfort and separation from nearby homes. When choosing one, the biggest question usually comes down to this: do you want to spend less now, or spend less time maintaining it later?

Wood fencing is a longtime favorite and often the most affordable way to add privacy. It has a warm, natural look that fits beautifully with many homes and gardens. The tradeoff is maintenance. Over time, wood can weather, fade, or warp, so it usually needs staining or painting and occasional repairs to keep it looking its best. With regular care, however, a wood fence can last for many years. Many homeowners also appreciate that wood can be easily customized with different stains, paints, and styles.

Composite fencing is another option that combines wood fibers with recycled materials to create a strong, durable fence. It offers the look of wood but requires far less maintenance since it does not rot or splinter the same way natural wood can. Composite fencing can be more expensive upfront, but many people like it because it keeps its appearance for years with very little upkeep.

Vinyl fencing has become popular for people who prefer a low maintenance option. It typically costs more upfront, but once it is installed there is very little work required. Vinyl does not rot, warp, or attract insects, and a quick rinse with the hose every so often usually keeps it looking clean. The only downside is that if a section is damaged, repairs can sometimes be a little more complicated.

Aluminum fencing is another option, although it is more commonly seen in decorative or picket style designs rather than full privacy fences. It is strong, lightweight, and naturally resistant to rust, which makes it a good choice in coastal or humid areas. Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of colors and styles, but installation is usually best handled by professionals, and it may not always work as well on uneven ground.

At the end of the day, the best fence is the one that fits both your lifestyle and your yard. Thinking about how much time you want to spend on upkeep in the future can help make the choice a little easier.


Monthly Recipe: Easy-Peasy S’mores Cookies

Southern Living Smores Cookies on a tray to serve From Southern Living, “S’mores cookies capture all the flavors of the fireside treat—sans the bonfire.

Everything you love about the classic campfire dessert is wrapped up in these s’mores cookies. A sugary cookie dough base is studded with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. Before the cookies are finished baking, a final piece of chocolate is added to really put the treat over the top.

These s’mores cookies are firm on the outside with buttery, crispy edges. They manage to be warm and gooey on the inside, with hints of crunch thanks to the graham cracker pieces. Enjoy them while they’re still warm for the best experience.

If you make them ahead, you can store the cookies in an airtight container up to five days, but we strongly recommend a quick warm-up in the oven or microwave to bring back that ooey-gooey texture.”

For more and the recipe go to:  Easy-Peasy S’mores Cookies


A Few Words Go A Long Way

Traveling to a new country is exciting, but it can also come with a few language challenges. While translation apps and guidebooks can help, learning a few simple phrases before you arrive can make a surprising difference. Even a small effort to speak the local language often leads to friendlier interactions and smoother travel experiences.

You do not need to memorize long conversations. In fact, seasoned travelers say that just a handful of practical words and phrases can help you navigate most everyday situations. Whether you are asking for directions, ordering food, or handling an unexpected situation, these simple phrases can be incredibly useful.

Here are a few of the most helpful ones to know:

Everyday basics: Hello / Good morning / Good evening / Please / Thank you / Excuse me / I’m sorry

Getting around: Where is the restroom? / Where is the train station? / Where is the bus stop? / How much does this cost? / Which way is? / Is it far?

Safety and health: Help / I am allergic to/ I need a doctor / hospital / police

Most importantly, do not be afraid to try. Even if your pronunciation is not perfect, people usually appreciate the effort, and a few simple words can make traveling abroad much easier and more enjoyable.


BHG: 9 Surprisingly Useful Ways to Put Cardboard to Work in Your Garden

Garden with raised beds and a wooden fenceFrom Better Homes & Garden, “Reduce waste and save money by repurposing old cardboard in your garden.

Plain brown corrugated cardboard is biodegradable and safe to compost, but it can only be recycled a limited number of times before it becomes too degraded to be remade into new paper products. However, cardboard has numerous potential uses in the garden, and finding ways to repurpose it in your flower or vegetable beds can reduce household waste, cut gardening costs, and offer other benefits as well.

Here are 9 smart ways to use cardboard to make your garden better.”

For more go to:  9 Useful Ways To Put Cardboard To Use In Your Garden


Beach Bag Basics For Summer Days

July is prime time for beach, lake, and pool outings. A well-packed beach bag helps the whole family stay comfortable, protected from the sun, and ready to enjoy a full day by the water.

Start with a durable beach bag, storage bin, or folding wagon that can handle sand, water, and plenty of gear. Then pack the essentials: swimsuits and cover-ups, sandals or water shoes, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, beach towels, water bottles, and snacks. A waterproof phone pouch and a change of clothes are also helpful additions.

With a few smart essentials packed ahead of time, everyone can spend less time looking for things and more time relaxing, swimming, and enjoying summer.


  HARHouston Housing Market Review

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

HOUSTON PENDING HOME SALES HIT FOUR-YEAR HIGH IN MAY

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


Staying Safe In Extreme Heat

Very hot weather can do more than make people uncomfortable. Studies show that when temperatures rise above 90°F, injuries increase because heat can affect concentration, energy levels, and the body’s ability to cope with stress.

Drink plenty of fluids. Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during physical activity or time outdoors. Water is usually best, and sports drinks can help replace fluids and minerals lost through heavy sweating.

Dress for the heat. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that allows air to circulate. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can provide additional protection from direct sunlight.

Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen before going outdoors and reapply during the day. Sunburn damages the skin and makes it harder for the body to regulate its temperature.

Pace yourself. When working, exercising, or playing sports outside, start slowly and take regular breaks. Avoid the hottest part of the afternoon when possible.

Take breaks in the shade. Resting in shaded areas allows the body time to cool down and recover, especially during long periods outside.

Watch for warning signs. Symptoms like dizziness, weakness, confusion, nausea, or heavy sweating may signal heat exhaustion. If they occur, stop activity and move to a cooler place right away.

Look out for others. Check on family members, neighbors, children, and pets during very hot days. Some people are more sensitive to extreme heat.

Cool down indoors when possible. Air-conditioned spaces help the body recover from heat exposure. Even a short break indoors or a cool shower can make a difference.


SL: How Long To Run Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan To Prevent Mold and Mildew

Bathroom Exhaust FanThis article was timely for me as I went on a listing appointment recently that had mildew growing along the ceiling around the second floor bathroom exhaust fans. The seller speculated that the children spend a lot of time taking showers and seldom turned on the exhaust fans afterwards. Thought many of you may find this article interesting as well:

From Southern Living, “After a long day, a hot, steamy shower can melt the stress away. If your bathroom feels like a greenhouse afterward, your plants may love it and, unfortunately, so will mold and mildew. Those long showers can take a toll on your paint, wood, and finishes. To keep excess moisture from sticking around and causing damage, run your bathroom’s exhaust fan. It pulls out moist, warm air, as well as any odors in your bathroom. Knowing exactly when and how long to run the exhaust fan can help control moisture and protect your bathroom longer. Here’s how the device works and how to use it.”

For more go to:  How Long To Run Bathroom Exhaust Fans


Give Your Lawn A Helping Hand This Summer

The heat of July and August can be tough on lawns and gardens. Long sunny days and high temperatures often dry out soil and stress grass and plants. With a little planning and routine care, however, you can help your yard stay greener and healthier through the hottest part of the season.

Feed your lawn when needed. Using a fertilizer designed for summer conditions can help support steady growth. If your lawn was fertilized in the spring, allow several weeks before applying another treatment so the grass is not overfed.

Mow carefully. Regular mowing keeps your lawn looking neat, but cutting grass too short can make it more vulnerable to heat. Allowing the grass to grow slightly taller helps shade the soil, hold moisture longer, and discourages weeds.

Water deeply and at the right time. Lawns typically do best with deeper watering once or twice a week rather than frequent light watering. Early morning or evening watering helps reduce evaporation and allows moisture to reach the roots.

Watch for pet damage. If pets frequently use certain areas of the lawn, rinse those spots with water, and clean up waste regularly. This helps prevent patches from forming and keeps grass healthier.

Help plants handle the heat. Using light-colored mulch can help keep soil cooler and reduce moisture loss. Taller plants or shrubs can also provide natural shade for smaller plants during the hottest hours of the day.

Provide extra shade if needed. In areas where natural shade is limited, lightweight shade cloth can help protect delicate plants from intense sunlight while still allowing air to circulate.

With a little attention and care, your lawn and garden can stay strong, vibrant, and ready to enjoy throughout the peak of summer.


SL: 25 Affordable Family Vacations You Haven’t Thought Of Before

Guadalupe River TubingFrom Southern Living, “Your whole family is looking forward to a vacation, but life has grown expensive with the cost rising on gas, groceries, and just about everything. But just because this might not be the year to take the whole extended clan on an all-expenses-paid cruise or book Dolly Parton’s tour bus-turned-hotel room for $10,000 a night, that doesn’t mean you have to stay home. You just have to get creative and find more economical expeditions.

To help, here’s a list of budget-friendly, fun-filled family trips throughout the South that you might not have thought of previously. It’s not too late to book a trip for a fall foliage tour, winter escape, springtime vacation, or summer at the beach. Scroll on for inspiration, then take your pick from these fun and affordable family vacations in the South.

For more go to: 25 Affordable Family Vacations


Keep Swimmer’s Ear Away

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


Patio Furniture Strategies

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

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

For the best selection, plan to make your purchase in May.

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

June 2026 Trivia Answers

March Question:  What insect is most commonly associated with summer evenings and produces light through bioluminescence? 

Answer: Firefly / Lightening bug

Winner: Josie Gragg

Your name was randomly selected from all of the correct entries. You’ve won a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  IT’S YOUR CHOICE!

July 2026 Trivia Questions

Question: What is the largest desert in the world?

Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by June 25th will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  It’s your choice!


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