The week began with a major scholarship deadline. The Bailey Scholarship is awarded to Arts and Sciences students applying for study abroad programs. Although I had prepared the application prior to that afternoon, I needed to deliver it to the appropriate office on time.

Tuesday was the first Merchandise and Apparel Design Association meeting of the semester. As usual, the speaker provided an abundance of information. Brad Jackson, from Jackson Jewelers in Stillwater was generous enough to speak to us about his career, their business, how they got started, and what to look for in a diamond. The Hearts On Fire diamonds which Jackon's carries, has the world's most perfectly cut diamonds. Now, I will admit that I'm not exactly the most giddy person when it comes to the topic of marriage, but discussing what makes a diamond shine the way it does was pretty neat! Fifty percent of a diamonds value is due to the way it is cut. This becomes important when shopping for a diamond, which may seem easy, but as I found out can be an extensive process. Although, with the CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems available in many jewelry stores, you can see the exact ring you want from all angles before purchasing it. In the short time that we listened to Mr. Jackson speak he also had a chance to tell us many delightful stories he has experienced with couples throughout the years, having been in the jewelry business since he was born. I don't know when I will be in the market for a ring but when I am, Jackson Jewelers seems like a very friendly and helpful environment!

Thursday was a stressful, but exciting day consisting of two tests, two meetings and class in between. Both tests were luckily on the easier side and I had studied earlier in the week, so I wasn't too worried. The OSU Student Foundation Exec. meeting brought more planning and reminders for Cowboy Spirit which is approaching so soon!! I'm really looking forward to this year's battle of the bands! Circle K International followed shortly after, in the Student Union, where we began by discussing upcoming events. We were all looking forward to hosting the District Spring Rally on Saturday! Then we started cutting and tying blankets that we will give to DHS. Here are a couple pics from the meeting.

Saturday morning came with lots of enthusiasm due to all the Circle Ker's who were on their way from different parts of Texas and Oklahoma to meet for the Spring Rally. I love district events with CKI because almost everyone has been a friend from a previous CKI or even a Key Club event! So in a sense these events are an excuse for friends from long distances to get together and perform service projects - what could be better?! We all met at the Renaissance Living Center in Stillwater and decorated the residents' doors for Valentine's Day; they were so happy to see so many smiling faces. Builder's Club also met us there so we had plenty of help ensuring that the doors were wonderfully decorated for the upcoming holiday! After finishing, the CKIer's met at the Student Union and had lunch. An interactive ice breaker got everyone going and really made the afternoon entertaining. Then the business of the day was conducted. Normally, the purpose of Spring Rally is to elect the division's next Lieutenant Governor, but due to predicted weather the Governor of CKI couldn't be present; therefore, the election was postponed to the District Convention. It was a great afternoon of service, leadership, and fellowship nonetheless! Here are a few pictures from Saturday.

CKI & Builder's Club!	The ice breaker at the Student Union

When Sunday arrived I was headed to the library for the duration of the day. Another two tests next week doesn't leave room for much down time. Luckily friends were texting updates on the Super Bowl haha. Congrats Saints!

This week brought good times and challenges, but without the work what are you really achieving? I truly believe more each week that attending Oklahoma State brings opportunities and challenges that help me grow in ways I could do nowhere else!

GO POKES!