This month, our team enjoyed a creative and hands-on outing at Trade Oak Cliff, where we tried our skills at the pottery wheel. Each of us had the chance to craft a bowl from start to finish, learning new techniques while sharing plenty of laughs along the way. The experience was both relaxing and rewarding, giving us a chance to step outside our comfort zones and create something unique.
Beyond the clay and spinning wheels, the best part was spending time together outside of the office. Team building activities like this remind us how important it is to connect not just as colleagues, but as people. We left with more than just handmade bowls—we left with shared memories and a stronger sense of camaraderie.
How do Texas courts divide property?
When you are getting a divorce in Dallas, Texas, dividing property is one of the most important and often difficult parts. It is essential to know how property division works under Texas law if you are going through this process. What should you know?
-Money, property and debts acquired during the marriage are jointly owned
Money, property, and debts gained during the marriage belong to both spouses. Texas is a community property state, so anything acquired during the marriage is usually owned by both partners. This includes income, real estate, and other assets collected while married.
-Courts divide property in a way that is fair, but not necessarily equal
Courts divide property fairly, but not always equally, in what is known as “equitable distribution.” This doesn’t always mean a 50/50 split; instead, it is a “ just and right” division based on factors like each spouse’s earning ability, how long they were married and how each spouse supported their household.
Can a parent’s mental health lead to custody modification?
When custody orders no longer reflect what’s best for a child, Texas courts may consider changes. One reason for a modification request involves concerns about a parent’s mental health. If you’re wondering whether a mental health diagnosis can change a custody arrangement, here’s what you need to know.
-What courts consider in custody modifications
Texas courts look at whether there’s been a “material and substantial change” since the last order. A mental health diagnosis by itself doesn’t automatically lead to a change. The court wants to see if the condition affects the parent’s ability to safely and effectively care for the child. Stability, routine, and emotional support all matter when a judge reviews these cases.
-Signs that mental health affects parenting
A diagnosis that leads to missed visits, erratic behavior, or inability to provide basic care may raise red flags. For example, if a parent has untreated bipolar disorder and frequently cancels visits or acts unpredictably, that can become a concern. On the other hand, a parent who manages their condition with treatment and stays consistent may not face any changes at all. It’s not about the diagnosis itself, but the impact on the child.
Good News
Good News
“Squeeze the Day,” launched by Dallas-based nonprofit Momentous Institute, is a vibrant and accessible mental health awareness campaign timed with Mental Wellness Month in May. The initiative invites North Texans to make mental wellness a joyful, everyday habit rather than an emergency response. Led by Executive Director Dr. Jessica Gomez, the campaign emphasizes the healing power of simple, mindful moments—like stepping outside, soaking up sunlight, connecting with others, or even just playing outdoors—and aims to reframe wellness as communal, empowering, and part of daily life.
Through creative nature-based activations and free downloadable guides, Momentous Institute is meeting people where they are. Examples include “Put Your Feet Up” installations at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson PGA Tournament, mindful pathways at venues like the Dallas Arboretum and Dallas Zoo, and playful outdoor activities at places like White Rock Lake. Complementing these events are three downloadable toolkits for different settings—workplaces, schools, and families—designed to help readers integrate small, healing routines into everyday life.
Pet Spotlight: Help Find a Loving Home
This month, we’ve partnered with Cody’s Friends Rescue to feature two adorable dogs who are ready to become a cherished part of your family.
On the left, meet Brady. Brady is a six-month-old Terrier Mix and is currently about 20 pounds of LOVIN’! Brady is completely housebroken, and he LOVES to play with other dogs and children. Maybe he is exactly the pet you are looking for to complete your family! Read More
On the right, meet Astro. Astro is a ten-month-old Husky mix who was found on the streets. He is very sweet and likely escaped from a loving home. Astro is ready to find his new family! Read More)
Adoptions at Cody’s Friends Rescue are free and include spay/neuter, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchip, and more. Cody’s Friends Rescue is located at 6501 Clearhaven Circle, Dallas, TX 75248 and is open 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. -6 p.m. Visit https://www.codysfriendsrescue.org/ to learn more.
