I'm sure not in Cedar Hill/DeSoto area but I do like to work on my cars.
First thing is to do all the normal maintenance that the car should have done; oil change, oil and air filters change, plugs, belts, transmission and differential fluids, brake fluid change, etc. Make sure the battery is secure.
Second, get a good alignment. Forum member Bam! works at the NTB in Grapevine, it will be well worth the trip to get him to do the alignment. He does outstanding work.
Third, get all the seat time you can.
Don't be bashful (or thin skinned) and ask questions, at the events and here on the forum.
Good luck, glad to have you here.