Mark Ballas' 'DWTS' blog: Turn up the heat

By Mark Ballas, Special for USA TODAY

March 29, 2012

Mark Ballas' 'DWTS' blog: Turn up the heat
This week, Mark's partner, Katherine, had her first "out-of-body" experience on the show. That's when you go from your opening to closing poses without realizing what happened in between. (Credit: By Adam Taylor, ABC)

Dance 2 down …

What a crazy week! I feel like the intensity went up a few notches because this week was the first elimination. Everyone's tension and nerves have shot up since last week. Once again, this week's performances were of such a high standard that it made for a great night of competition. Kat and I danced sixth, which was nice because we got to watch a few couples before us and then could relax and enjoy the rest of the show once we performed.

I was so proud of Katherine and our jive; she definitely turned up the heat during the live performance. I remember looking over at her during the shaky-shake part and thinking, "Ok girl, you go get it!" The audience was really supportive and loud — it always feels great to have the crowd gunning for you.

After we performed, I asked Katherine how she felt it went. She said she couldn't remember and felt like she had an out-of-body experience! I can totally relate because that's really what happens — you start your routine and then, all of a sudden, you're in your final pose, and standing before the judges, talking to Tom. The judges' comments were really nice, too, and I'm happy Bruno acknowledged Kat's flicks because we really drilled them over and over during rehearsal.

As for the other couples, I really enjoyed Donald and Peta, Derek and Maria, Roshon and Chelsie and Val and Sherri. But I have to say that everyone was great and put on an amazing show. Live tweeting with all of you during the show was a lot of fun! I love interacting with our fans and it made the red room a lot more entertaining. I'll be sure to keep doing it.

Elimination day is never fun. Derek and Maria, Val and Sherri and Kat and I were all saved at the same time, which is a bit unusual. But it definitely was a big relief and took the weight off our shoulders. However, it was really sad to say goodbye to Martina and Tony. I think it becomes very real for the stars now that someone goes home every week. Since we've all become so close, it's always upsetting to see someone leave.

Next week's theme is "most memorable year" of our partner's life, and Katherine and I have the slow waltz. Hopefully, it is going to be an emotional and moving piece. I'm really looking forward to this one and sharing Katherine's story with all of you.

Well, back to the grind!

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