Speckled Gall Wasp

Wow ForestDragon! Thanks for the information and AGH! I touched a wasp nest !!! LOL!

I agree that it is the second one.

Very beautiful find! This is a gall. Basically it is a house for a type of wasp larva. I am not sure which species created this gall but here are a couple of options:
Atrusca quercuscentricola, Spotted Oak Apple Gall Wasp.(I don't know if it occurs in your area), These occur on Post Oak. Do you happen to know the type of oak leaf it was found on? http://bugguide.net/node/view/359606

Cynips mirabilis, Speckled Gall Wasp (this one has been found in your area): http://bugguide.net/node/view/247207

I am leaning towards the second one but I think a bit more research into what can be found in your area would help.

This should be moved to the Arthropods section since it is a wonderful example of an insect abode!

I find these occasionally when I'm hiking! They're pretty cool! You might find it near to check out:
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topi...
Nice find!