How Did We Like Them Apples? (My Episode 18 Recap)

Going to Ohio to compete against Candy Apples was intense.  Abby was determined to win after losing to the Candy Apples by a tenth of a point a few weeks ago.  Rehearsals were long and filled with drama.  Abby is extremely competitive and she hates to lose, especially to a rival.

Nothing about Abby really surprises me anymore.  The pyramid is becoming fairly predictable. What needs shaking up is more positive reinforcement, more one to one instructional time and more solos given to each of the girls, not just Nia. Now that would be a welcome surprise! I thought it was great that Paige had an opportunity to do a solo this week since she had not had a solo in a long time.  I fully understand why Kelly changed Paige’s choreography.  I admire her courage and creative initiative.  Given the results of the competition it appears that she made a “winning” decision.  Kelly’s choreography was competitive with Abby’s since Paige and Chloe placed next to each other in the overalls.

Normally Abby is never happy with top 5. Abby is not truly happy with anything other than first.  Since Candy Apples did not place at all, however, Abby was content with a limited “victory” if not totally satisfied with the result.  The competition at this venue was stellar.  There were great studios represented and amazingly talented dancers.  Although I thought our group number was strong, we were competing against some of the best of the best.  I was pleased with the group’s performance and I do not think they could have done more to improve the dance.  There are some days when other groups are better. This was one of those days and I think we should be happy with 5^th place and proud of the performance.

I think that Abby’s feeling of triumph over Cathy’s Candy Apples will only bring momentary happiness and then a new challenge. Once it sinks in that we won 5^th place I am sure Abby will only be pleased with full victory!