Since I know you have all been on the end of your seats waiting (ha) for the 2 things I couldn't wait to share (sorry I forgot to post it here as well):

Accepting my certificate from the

​Honorable Judge McClenahan after being sworn in

I can finally share one of the exciting things I have been working on after months of 44 hours of training, hours of courtroom observations, writing court reports and looking at several other court cases (and obviously the pre-screening and interview, background check and driving record etc), I was officially sworn in by Judge McClenahan to be a CASA ad litem. I'm actually more proud of this accomplishment than I am of getting my masters (and let me tell you, I haven't done this much "school work", homework, and papers since grad school).
Now I don't share this big accomplishment and commitment in my life to "toot my own horn" but rather urge EVERYONE to look into volunteering. Sure, you may not have enough time to make this big of a commitment, but there are so many volunteer opportunities out there! With that being said, CASA advocates are in severe need in Central Tx. I will be taking cases in Hays, San Marcos, Comal, New Braunfels, and Lockhart and in these areas we literally only have enough CASA volunteers to advocate for 50% of our kids (Travis county has a MUCH higher percentage). That's 50% of kids in horrible life situations that have no one looking out for just them and being their voice, as well as someone they know will constantly be there when their living situations may be constantly changing or parents/family members in and out of their lives. I'd love to give you more info if you are interested! 
(I was also beyond lucky and thankful for my forever work wives to come and support me, as well as be a part of this special occasion! Love them!)
CASA mission: 
"CASA of Central Texas advocates for abused and neglected children in the courts, school, and child welfare system by training and supporting community volunteers."
"Advocates talk with the child, parents, family members, caseworkers, school officials, health providers, therapists, and others who are knowledgeable about the child’s history. Advocates review school, medical, caseworker reports and other documents regarding the child during the year the child is in foster care."