Unexpected Freedom

Note: I ran across this old story recently, and reading it again instantly made me feel spry. I hope you enjoy it.

I am now, probably for the first time in my life, most like the person I have always wanted to be. Sure, sometimes I despair over the wrinkles, the baggy eyes, and the sagging chin. In fact, often I am taken aback by noticing that old person in my mirror, but I don’t agonize over it.

I have a wonderful life and would never trade my amazing friends or loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. I’ve become kinder to myself. I’ve become my own friend. I don’t chide myself for eating that extra cookie, for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn’t need but looks so avant-garde on my patio. I am entitled to overeat, to be messy, to be extravagant. I can say “no” and mean it. I can also say “yes” and mean it.

Great freedom comes with aging. Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 a.m. or sleep until noon? I will walk the beach in a swimsuit that is stretched over a bulging body and dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the bikini crowd. They, too, will get old!

As I become older, it is easier to be positive. I care less about what other people think. I don’t question myself anymore. I’ve even earned the right to be wrong. I like being old because it has set me free.

I genuinely like the person I have become. I won’t live forever, but while I am still here, I will waste no time lamenting what could have been or worrying about what will be. Today, I wish you a day of ordinary miracles and the unexpected freedom of aging with joy.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

 

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Our Featured Listings

The Houston housing market has softened and seems to bein the process of becoming a more “balanced market” again. 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. 

COMING SOON:

• 8309 Koester in Jersey Village (77040) – “COMING SOON” – FOR SALE $549,900 – www.har.com/58203180 –  2-story, 3061sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, gameroom, “flex” room, oversized 4 car garage. 2 Primary Suites (1st floor & 2nd floor). Lots of amenities: Double pane windows, 2 zoned HVAC systems, wood laminate, remodeled kitchen with shaker cabinets, quartz, gas cooking, & more. No rear neighbors.

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 1726 Summerlyn Terrace in Spring Branch (77080) –  PRICE REDUCED TO $399,900 – www.har.com/13349196 – Pulte-built 2021, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Tons of energy features. Gate community with dog park & guest parking. Stunning landscaped patio-size lot backyard. 
• 5505 Hardy St in Ryon (77009) – FOR SALE $207,000 – www.har.com/97581240  – 5,000sqft lot ready to be built on. Lot is 50ft wide x 100ft deep. No HOA. No MUD. Low tax rate. 

PENDING LISTINGS:

• 17719 Eavesdown Ct in Copper Lakes (77095) – FOR SALE $579,000  –   www.har.com/95465024 – 2-story, 3900sqft, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, gameroom, media room, 2 car garage. Swimming pool & outdoor kitchen. Quiet cul-de-sac street.

APRIL SOLDS: BUYERS/SELLERS OR TENANTS/LANDLORDS:

• 16006 Country Club Ct in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $415,000 –  www.har.com/95465024 – 1-story, 2296sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Located on 3/4 acre tree-filled lot. Saltwater pool & spa. Tons of updates! Open House on 4/6 from 1-3PM. *RECEIVED MULTIPLE OFFERS. SOLD ABOVE LIST PRICE IN 6 DAYS.
• 4767 Blueberry Hill in Bear Creek Village (77084) – FOR SALE $224,000 – www.har.com/79715006 – 1812sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Multiple offers. *Only 4 days on the market before going under contract. *RECEIVED MULTIPLE OFFERS. SOLD IN 4 DAYS
• 8314 Columbia Forest in Villages at Hanover (77095) – FOR LEASE $2,100 – www.har.com/68266764  – Built in 2016, 1676sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Lease included refrigerator, washer, & dryer. Pets on case-by-case. No cats.   
• 4723 Lombardy Fire Trail in Ventana Lakes (77449) – FOR LEASE $2,400 –  www.har.com/33197811 – 2098sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. LEASED IN 3 DAYS. 

OPEN HOUSE at 1726 Summerlyn Terrace in Spring Branch (77080) – Saturday 5/4 from 1-3PM – www.har.com/13349196 –  price reduced to $399,900 – instructions to access this gated community for the open house will be posted on the intercom system.  

OPEN HOUSE at 8309 Koester in Jersey Village (77040) – Sunday 5/5 from 1-3PM. www.har.com/58203180  – price $549,900 – Just listed. First opportunity to tour this brand new listing. 

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Monthly Recipe: Hummingbird Bread Recipe

OMG!!!  I just love Hummingbird Cake, so when I ran across this recipe, I just had to share with all of you. It is sweet & moist, and tastes like summertime to me.

From Southern Living, “Turn the flavors of traditional hummingbird cake—pineapple, bananas, coconut, and pecans—into a quick bread.

Hummingbird cake is a classic Southern dessert, so we decided to keep all the flavors and textures but make it easier with a quick Hummingbird Bread recipe.

The tropical, sweet flavors of banana and pineapple pair perfectly with the crunchy texture of toasted pecans. The sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting and hint of spice from the cinnamon make this hummingbird bread unlike any sweet loaf you’ve ever tasted.” 

For more go to:  Hummingbird Bread

 

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Magnesium: The Essential Mineral

Although magnesium is crucial for more than 300 biochemical reactions, it often goes unnoticed. It aids in stress and anxiety reduction, enhances sleep quality, supports bone health, promotes heart health, and helps control blood sugar levels. Because of its broad impact, magnesium supplementation can be beneficial, especially for people who get an insufficient amount of it from their diet, such as individuals with dietary restrictions or specific health conditions.

Although magnesium is found in such foods as leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains, supplementation might be necessary for optimal health. However, before starting any supplement regimen, consult with a healthcare professional who can offer personalized advice and ensure magnesium supplementation is safe and effective for your specific health needs.

Incorporating magnesium into your daily routine, whether through diet or supplements, can offer numerous health benefits.

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May 2024 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:

Visit Houston: May Events in Houston 2024

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in May

Kids Out and About.com: Ma7 activities in & around Houston

101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

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Transitioning From Winter To Spring

As we bid farewell to winter and welcome spring, many of us anticipate the rejuvenation that this season promises. Yet, for some people, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, can make this transition challenging.

Understanding the nuances of SAD during this transition is crucial because it’s a time when we’re encouraged to gradually increase our exposure to natural light, engage in regular physical activity outdoors, and establish a stable routine to help our bodies adjust. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and journaling, can also serve as powerful tools to navigate this change, process our feelings, and embrace the new season with open arms.

Support systems can play a vital role when someone is experiencing SAD. Whether reaching out to friends, joining support groups, or seeking professional help, connecting with others can provide comfort and guidance. As the days lengthen and nature awakens, let’s remind ourselves that it’s OK to seek help and take time to adjust to the brighter days ahead.

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Celebrating Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 12th

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Instant Mood Boosters

Feeling down or just in need of a quick pick-me-up? Boosting your mood doesn’t always require a grand gesture or a significant life `change.

Step into the sunlight. Exposure to natural sunlight can increase serotonin, a brain chemical linked to mood elevation. Just a few minutes outside can brighten your spirits.

Listen to upbeat music. Music has a powerful effect on mood. Play your favorite upbeat tunes to lift your spirits and get a burst of happiness.

Laugh. Watch a funny video, read a comic strip, or talk with someone who makes you laugh. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.

Move your body. A quick walk, a few stretches, or a mini dance session can release endorphins, improve circulation, and shift your mood positively.

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Southern Living: 11 Things You Can Clean With Olive Oil, According To Experts

From Southern Living, “Discover the versatility of olive oil as a cleaning agent.

Everyone has their favorite products for deep cleaning a bathroom or sanitizing the dining table, but if you’re looking for a little extra shine or a new weapon to add to your eco-friendly cleaning arsenal, head to the kitchen. While vinegar has been one of our go-to cleaning products for years, it turns out that olive oil also has a ton of uses that don’t involve making vinaigrette or adding to bruschetta. According to our experts, olive oil is also a great way to clean, polish, and de-gunk your house.”

For more go to:  11 Things You Can Clean With Olive Oil

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May Roundup

May 1, International Workers’ Day: Also known as Labor Day in some countries, this day is a celebration of laborers and the working classes.

May 5, Cinco de Mayo: Commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It’s widely celebrated in the United States to honor Mexican culture and heritage.

May 12, Mother’s Day: Celebrated on the second Sunday in May, it’s a day to honor and celebrate mothers and mother figures.

May 27, Memorial Day: This US holiday honors military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties. It is also the unofficial start of summer.

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Balance Your Dishes

Contrast Flavors: Combine contrasting flavors, such as sweet and sour, or salty and bitter, to create depth.

Mind the Texture: Mix various textures, such as crunchy with creamy, to enhance the eating experience.

Season Smartly: Use salt, acid, fat, and heat judiciously to elevate the main ingredients without overpowering them.

Add Freshness: Incorporate fresh herbs or a squeeze of citrus to brighten rich or heavy dishes.

Taste as You Go: Continually taste and adjust seasonings to ensure a harmonious balance in every bite.

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Eco-Friendly Garden Hacks

With the arrival of spring, our gardens beckon us to immerse our hands in the soil and nurture life from the ground up. During this season, let’s embrace eco-friendly gardening practices that not only benefit our green spaces but also the planet. Sustainable gardening involves using resources in a way that doesn’t deplete them, from harvesting rainwater for irrigation to choosing native plants that thrive in your region without excessive water or chemical fertilizers.

Composting, another cornerstone of eco-friendly gardening, transforms kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil that can help reduce or eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers. Moreover, adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies can minimize the need for pesticides, focusing instead on natural pest-control methods and promoting biodiversity in your garden.

Creating a pollinator-friendly garden by planting a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year can support local bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. By adopting these sustainable practices, we can cultivate our gardens in harmony with nature and foster a healthier environment for future generations.

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The Power Of Gratitude

Embracing gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you”; it’s a lifestyle change that can significantly enhance your mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that people who regularly practice gratitude by acknowledging the good in their lives are happier, less stressed, and more resilient in the face of challenges.

Starting a gratitude journal, where you jot down a few things you’re thankful for each day, can shift your focus from what’s lacking to the abundance around you.

This simple act fosters a positive mindset, improves sleep, and strengthens relationships. In a world that often emphasizes what we’re missing, choosing gratitude helps us appreciate what we have, making for a fuller, more satisfying life.

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Southern Living: 12 Plants That Repel Mosquitos

From Southern Living, “Ward them off naturally.

Every year, the rainy season ushers in springtime, which is a welcome arrival. Rather less unwelcome is what spring—and then, eventually, the heat of summer—inevitably brings. Mosquitos buzz in, emerging from eggs laid in stagnant water across the region. It’s no wonder we’re constantly researching natural ways to repel mosquitoes in the garden.

The best way to combat mosquitoes is by interrupting their life cycle, consistently dumping out containers, refreshing water in birdbaths, and adding Mosquito Dunks to wet areas that can’t be easily drained. While sitting on your porch or deck, a blast of air from a fan can help blow weak-flying mosquitoes away. But mosquitoes are also repelled by bug sprays with strong scents, many of which are derived from common plants in the garden.

Surround yourself with carefully chosen plantings that you can crush to release their oils, rubbing them on the skin as a natural repellant (simply having these plants growing in the garden won’t be enough to send your tormentors packing). Or, throw a few sprigs on the grill to emit a fragrant smoke that chases mosquitoes away.”

For more go to:  12 Plants That Repel Mosquitos 

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Springtime in a Jar

As spring heralds the arrival of a bounty of fruits and vegetables, it offers the perfect opportunity to capture the essence of the season in a jar through homemade preserves. From the tangy sweetness of strawberry jam to the savory depth of pickled asparagus, preserves allow us to savor the flavors of spring long after the season has passed.

Starting with strawberries, rhubarb, and early cherries, spring provides a plethora of options for jams, jellies, and marmalades. Embracing the art of preserving doesn’t just yield delicious results; it also encourages us to connect with our food sources, understand the rhythm of seasons, and reduce food waste.

If you are new to preserving, then such simple recipes as strawberry jam or quick pickles can be a great start. Remember, the key to great preserves is fresh, quality produce, so take advantage of your local farmers’ market. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a curious novice, the process of preserving can be a rewarding way to engage with the abundance of spring.

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Keep An Eye On Bicycles

As the weather warms up, the streets welcome more cyclists, signaling a vibrant shift towards healthier and greener urban living. Here’s how drivers can contribute to a positive and safe road-sharing experience:

Honor Bike Lanes: Treat them as sacred spaces for cyclists, promoting a sustainable and mindful community.

Give Space: When passing cyclists, do so with care and patience, recognizing the value of every life on the road.

Practice Empathy: Approach every road-sharing moment with understanding and respect, reducing misunderstandings.

Be Vigilant: Regularly check for cyclists in mirrors and blind spots, acknowledging their place on the road.

Foster Positivity: Embrace the presence of cyclists with a positive spirit, contributing to a culture of joy and shared responsibility.

Together, we can cultivate safer and more joyful environments for all, whether on bustling city streets or quiet country roads. 

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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®

INVENTORY CONTINUES TO BLOOM AS HOUSTON HOME SALES DIP 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

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The Art Of Letting Go

Getting rid of stuff is tough, right? Most of us have been taught to “waste not, want not”, or maybe it’s because even the simplest things can hold memories. But no matter the reason, saying goodbye to our stuff can be a real struggle. Yet, there comes a point when we have to do it. We can’t donate, gift, or organize everything away.

So, what should you toss instead of donate or sell? Pretty much anything that’s stained, broken, dirty, doesn’t fit, or you just don’t use in your everyday life. Think kids’ toys that are past their prime, old books and CDs, clothes that don’t fit, and all those little knick-knacks. And don’t forget about hobby stuff you never touch, gifts you never liked, costume jewelry that’s not your style, birthday cards, fake flowers and busted family keepsakes.

If you want to keep the memories without the clutter, snap some photos of these items before letting them go. And how about setting up one special memory box that can live easily in your place? Fill it with things that tell your story or might mean something meaningful to your family down the line.

 April 2024 Trivia Answer

Question:  What date did the Titanic sink? 

Answer: April 14-15, 1912

Congratulations to 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!

May 2024 Trivia Question

Question:  In Greek mythology, who is the goddess of wisdom, courage, and inspiration?

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!

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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