Hi guys!

I made it to semifinals! To be honest, I never thought I’d make it this far. I’m nervous and excited, but trying to just enjoy here on out and not feel the pressure. All the other stars left in the competition are so talented. It’s time to really break out my a-game with only two more weeks left.

This week I learned a huge lesson the hard way: it’s important to eat enough before dancing. Mondays are so busy with rehearsal and pre-show prep like hair and makeup that I forgot to eat. Right before Derek and I performed our quickstep I was feeling so dizzy I was worried I might faint. I scarfed down any food I could find at the last minute, but it affected me. I had some slip ups in the dance. I’m so glad that quickstep is over – it was definitely not my favorite!

Coming up next week (for semifinals!) Derek and I are working on the cha-cha and viennese, but also get to perform our salsa knock out dance, which we thankfully didn’t have to use during double eliminations. My strategy is to focus on steps that show my strength so I can be 100% confident. I’d much rather know what I’m doing out there than have a dance full of fancy tricks. I just hope Derek is on board with that idea.

I’m off to rest up, eat food and make the most of rehearsals. Don’t forget to tune in on Monday and vote for your favorite couple!