It's finally Thanksgiving and us dancers truly have so much to be thankful for! But we're not just talking about all that sentimental, predictable stuff like families and friends. I mean, don't get us wrong, family and friends are great and all, and really deserving of gratefulness, but tbh, so are naps. And bobby pins. And protein bars. Yep, we went there. Here's a list of 10 things dancers can't help but be thankful for because without them we'd literally be nothing.

1. Rosin

Bless this miracle worker that keeps us from falling on our faces every time we bust a move.

For examples of people who, er, probably didn't use rosin, see below. 👇

2. Bobby pins

What would we do without these babies? Our hair would constantly be in our faces, we'd have to spend wayyy too much time on hair-ography, and our dance teachers would probably end up so annoyed every single class.

3. Toe pads

Honestly, we get emotional just thinking about what life would be like without these blessed things. They're the real MVPs!

4. Dress rehearsals

There's never been a more comforting phrase than, "bad dress rehearsal, good show." Thank goodness for the chance to mess up and get our last minute jitters out without an entire audience watching!

5. Water breaks

You definitely don't save ANY water for the fishies when your teacher tells you to take five in the middle of rehearsal. It tastes glorious, and you deserve it.

6. Naps

Between school, class, rehearsal, competitions, and performances, there's basically no time in your life for sleep. So when you get the chance to take a nap on your desk at school, in the car on your way to dance, or even just standing up outside of the studio while you wait for the class ahead of you to get out, it's pure magic.

7. Protein Bars

It's amazing how fast a snack can turn things around. Thank you protein bars for keeping us from being hangry.

8. Band-Aids

Our feet are so covered in blisters at this point, we wouldn't make it two days without Band-Aids. We don't deserve them!

9. Deodorant

Can you imagine how bad your dance studio would smell without deodorant? It already smells terrible with it! Bless modern personal hygiene practices.

10. Ice cream

Just because this should be on every gratitude list ever made. So, yeah, we're just gonna leave this right here.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! We hope you're enjoying this wonderful day of feasting. In the spirit of the holiday, we thought we'd reflect on the dance things we're grateful for this year. Here are our editors' top picks.

Katherine Beard, assistant editor

"I'm thankful for the next generation of black ballerinas who are making the ballet world more diverse and accepting; another mind-blowing season of "World of Dance"; one of the most dance-filled Taylor Swift tours yet; and the pint-size dancers of "Dancing with the Stars: Juniors" who've proven that while they may be small, their dance moves aren't. But most of all, I'm grateful for fellow dancers and dance fans like you, who read Dance Spirit and are as excited as I am to get the latest scoop on all things dance!"

Courtney Bowers, managing editor

"This year, I'm super grateful for Hannahlei Cabanilla's "So You Think You Can Dance" win (I was a HUGE fan from Day 1); for ballerina Jay Ledford and the courageous and candid way she let us share her journey as a transgender ballerina (oh, and also I'm amazingly grateful for her SUPER gorgeous lines and feet because I could literally stare at them all day); and for the new musical The Prom which just opened on Broadway and is one of the most adorable, hilarious, energetic, dancy, and heart-warming shows I've seen this year."

Olivia Manno, assistant editor

"The dancy things I'm thankful for this year are: Biscuit Ballerina's meteoric rise to fame (as if anyone had any doubts—she was always destined for trina status); the fact that making dance memes is in my job description; and that I somehow was lucky enough to be alive to witness the SpongeBob SquarePants musical, which was the greatest Broadway show I have ever seen (and will ever see) in my entire life."

Helen Rolfe, assistant editor

"This year, I'm very grateful for the brave dancers who have spoken out in order to make the dance world a safer and more equitable place. I'm also still feeling so #blessed to have witnessed American Ballet Theatre soloist Cassandra Trenary's INCREDIBLE performance in Arthur Pita's psychological dance play The Tenant. (Kevin McKenzie, promote that woman to principal already!) And last but certainly not least: Whenever I think about quitting Instagram, Mark Kanemura's joyfully wigtastic clips keep me coming back for more #CutToTheFeelingFridays. Thank you for keeping Instagram [wonderfully] weird, Mark."

Two young American dancers, Mikaela Kelly and Jordan Pelliteri (a former DS Cover Model Search finalist!), recently landed their dream jobs with the prestigious second company NDT 2, of Nederlands Dans Theater. So they packed up and headed abroad, ditching NYC subway trains for bicycles in The Hague, Netherlands.

Dancing abroad becomes about so much more than just working (although these girls work 13-hour days most of the time). It's also about traveling, being homesick, dealing with unexpected cultural differences, and potential language barriers. So, what's it really like to dance in Europe? We caught up with the pair to find out.

Leaving Home

For many dancers, the idea of leaving home for their career isn't all that intimidating. From a young age, it's common to travel for competitions or spend extended periods of time away attending summer intensives and pre-professional programs. "I'm grateful to my dance training for teaching me how to be independent and open to change," Kelly says, who just graduated from her four-year BFA program at The Juilliard School in NYC.

But both Kelly and Pelliteri are super-close with their families and said that the initial goodbyes were tough. "I did get quite emotional leaving home as I knew I was going to be all the way across an ocean," Pelliteri says, even though she already lived out of the country in Vancouver while finishing her two-year graduate program at Arts Umbrella Dance.

Otherwise, preparing for the overseas move was rather simple for the girls. Especially for Kelly who has dual citizenship in the U.S. and in Estonia, so she conveniently already had a European passport. Homesickness still lingers sometimes, though, as Kelly and Pelliteri navigate life overseas. But their work with NDT 2 helps by keeping them extremely busy. "My mind is constantly revolving around NDT and what I need to do to prepare for the next day," Pelliteri says.

Daily Life in The Hague

Life in The Hague for NDT 2 dancers pretty much revolves around the company. After all, it's the reason they traveled so far—and it comes as no surprise that these two dancers are incredibly invested in their work.

Starting every morning with a 9:30 am ballet class, Kelly and Pelliteri rehearse until at least 5:30 pm. They're currently working on programs for their Dutch tour which premiered a few weeks ago. "We'll be touring all over the Netherlands with our program called Significant Moments," Pelliteri says. "This program includes a new work by Alexander Ekman, a new work by Phillip Chbeeb, and a master work called Signing Off by Sol León and Paul Lightfoot."

Kelly and Pelliteri live in NDT-owned apartments where many of their fellow company members also reside. "It's a lovely building about a twelve-minute bike ride from the studios," Kelly says. "Many of us in the company love brunch, so we often invite each other over to our apartments and cook and eat together!"

Traveling, Food, and Downtime

In addition to the (very important) brunch get-togethers—because who doesn't love brunch with dance friends?!—Kelly and Pelliteri have realized the importance of embracing their new surroundings, as well as making sure they're getting enough rest.

"I can easily hop on a train for a few hours and be in another country seeing places I've always dreamed of going to and meeting people who live entirely different lives than me," Kelly says. "When we only have one day off I often bike to the beach which is fifteen minutes away and I read or play cards or just walk along the water for hours."

But while in the thick of premiere rehearsals, it's best to get some good ol' R and R, doing the "normal" things that help the dancers relax. After an exhausting week, Pelliteri likes to stay in and watch Netflix. "I also like to go to a café and enjoy some nice coffee and food," she says.

Speaking of food, the Netherlands offers diverse cuisine that both Kelly and Pelliteri are enjoying. NDT even has their own canteen where the dancers are taken care of while in classes or rehearsals. "The food options are great," Pelliteri says. "We're so lucky because we live next to two great grocery stores." Kelly adds that there are fantastic biologische (organic) options, bakeries, cafes, and fresh fruit stands, and amazing restaurants all over the city with every kind of food. "And often English menus!" she says.

Foreign Challenges

So far Kelly and Pelliteri say the transition to life abroad was remarkably smooth—with only a few minor challenges. According to the dancers, most Dutch people speak English and at NDT, all rehearsals and classes are conducted in English, as well. So, there aren't many language issues, besides the occasional language barrier on the street. But getting used to a more laid back atmosphere did prove to be an adjustment.

For Kelly, growing up in NYC, she was used to convenient stores like CVS and Duane Reade and 24-hour food spots. "It took me a little while to get accustomed to the fact that you can't go to a diner for pancakes at 1 am here," she says, laughing. "In NYC when I need things like makeup, toothpaste, candy, cleaning supplies, Advil, bobby pins and ice cream, I can pick up everything I need in one go." Places like that don't exist in the Netherlands and Kelly quickly learned that she'd need to visit at least five stores to get everything on her list. Pelliteri faced similar struggles in the drug store. "They have the Dutch equivalent of everything, so I have to ask a lot of questions," she says.

Dancing with NDT 2

While Nederlands Dans Theater is stationed in The Hague, the cultural experience doesn't stop there for NDT 2 dancers. It's a worldwide experience, even within the studio walls. "Most American dance companies have a few dancers from other countries and backgrounds, but they tend to consist primarily of dancers from the U.S.," Kelly explains. "NDT is incredibly rich in nationalities and cultures, and is so unique because of how it embraces and utilizes everyone's different training and backgrounds."

Pelliteri says that working with NDT is a challenge because of the rigorous and intense daily schedule. "I'm loving the work, and the ability to be in a studio full of such wonderful, warm, and inspiring co-workers," she says. "But it's challenging every day because you're pushing yourself physically and mentally. That's what I love most about dance in general, though."

Once the company goes on tour, the girls will get to see the world on an even greater scale—stopping in Paris, Berlin, Ukraine, Mexico, Serbia, Israel, New York, Boston, Maryland, and all across Europe. NDT 2 dancers sign three-year contracts with the company and both Kelly and Pelliteri hope to be invited to join NDT 1 in the future. "Whatever ends up happening I know I will forever be grateful for these upcoming three years here with NDT 2," Pelliteri says.

When you hear Elliana Walmsley's name, your first thought is probably "Dance Moms," but that's far from the tween's only claim to fame. Since first appearing on Season 6 of the show, Elliana's won Youth America Grand Prix's Hope Award and starred in the off-Broadway musical Dance Divas Nutcracker. Most recently, she won the title of 2018 Mini Female Best Dancer at The Dance Awards—and started work on "Dancing with the Stars: Juniors" the following day.

Winning 2018 Mini Female Best Dancer was a dream come true. I used to watch the dance-offs and solos, thinking it would be so cool just to get to the improv round. But a teacher told me that it was out of my reach, that I'd never be able to do it. I never forgot that comment, and I'm so glad that I proved her wrong.

Fast Facts

Age: 11

Birthday: June 23, 2007

Hometown: Boulder, CO

Trains at: Master Ballet Academy in Scottsdale, AZ; Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in Greenwood Village, CO; EDGE Performing Arts Center and Millennium Dance Complex in L.A.

Favorite Instagram filter: "The bulldog you put on your face"

Nickname: "One of the producers on 'Dance Moms' once asked my middle name. The first thing that popped into my head was Shakoofa—though it's really Kathryn. But now everyone calls me Shakoofa!"

Pre-performance ritual: "The Llama Squad—Brynn Rumfallo, Maesi Caes, and I—made up a chant where we basically jump around in circles and act like llamas. We get a lot of weird looks at conventions, but we don't care!"

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "You Should Know: Elliana Walmsley."

In our "Dear Katie" series, former NYCB soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email dearkatie@dancespirit.com for a chance to be featured!

Dear Katie,

While I love dancing, I think my real dream is to direct a dance company of my own. I'm only 16, but what can I do at this point to start making that dream a reality?

Sarah

Dear Sarah,

Good for you! Not many people have that dream so early in life. Knowing what you want at a young age is a gift in itself.

The thing to understand is that dance companies aren't just about dance—they're also businesses. That means, as a company director, you'll probably be involved in things like marketing, budgeting, and hiring, in addition to your duties as an artistic leader. So on top of your dance training, I'd suggest taking a few business-related classes, if you have the time and funds. You might want to consider pursuing a business or arts administration degree in college, too.

Bigger picture, think past your dancing. Are you good at making difficult decisions? Do you know how to speak in front of people? Do you understand how to promote a brand? If so, you already have many of the qualities that make for a strong company director. If not, now's the time to start developing those qualities.

For more of Katie's helpful tips and advice, click here.

Nutcracker season is upon us, guys, and the time has come for never-ending rehearsals and like 10 shows a day. So sure, there's a lot of emphasis on all the negative aspects of performing in the show and how to survive this nutty season, but let's be real: There's also a ton of REALLY fun things about this holiday classic. Like getting to dance in the most dreamy costumes you can imagine. Here are the 7 absolute best parts of dancing in a production of The Nutcracker.

You Get to Spend So Much Time with Your Friends

Sure, the rehearsals are long, but you get to spend those hours with your closet ballet BFFs.

It Puts You in the Winter Spirit

We fa-la-la-la-love those winter feels.

The Costumes are Magical 

You can't help but feel like you're in a dream when you slip into those stunning costumes.

It Pushes You to Be Better

Being in The Nutcracker is such a great learning experience. It truly challenges you to be the best you can be and to give your all, no matter how exhausted you are.

You Get to Be Immersed in the Beautiful Music

All of the music is extraordinary, but listening to the music of the Grand Pas de Deux always gives us chills.

You Get to Play a Variety of Roles

The great thing about doing The Nutcracker for more than just one year is that you eventually get to play so many different roles. One year you're the Sugar Plum Fairy and the next you're the Snow Queen!

You Get to Be a Part of a Classic Dance Tradition 

At the end of the day, being in The Nutcracker means taking part in a long tradition of gorgeous dance that we celebrate every year. Plus, it's a dancer milestone: Almost every professional out there will tell you they performed in the show as a student. Tbh, that makes all the hard work worth it.

Natalie Reid's precise technique and bubbly personality have earned her veteran status with the Radio City Rockettes—this is her eighth season! A Seattle, WA, native, Reid attended Chapman University, majoring in public relations and advertising. While in school, she also trained with Mandy Moore and at Edge Performing Arts Center. She's danced with companies including Justin Giles' SoulEscape, Anaheim Ballet, and Odyssey Dance Theatre, and she joined the Rockettes in 2011. Catch her on the Radio City stage this season—and read on for The Dirt! —Courtney Bowers

What's your favorite Broadway show?

Wicked—I love all the songs and I cry every time I see it.

If you were a superhero, what would your special power be?

Flying!

What are your pet peeves?

Being in crowded places, which is funny since I live in Manhattan!

What performer would you drop everything to go see?

Beyoncé. I've never seen her live.

If you could work with any choreographer, who would it be?

Crystal Pite. I absolutely love her work and storytelling.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Snowboarding. I love the mountains and tend to take four to five big skiing/snowboarding trips a year.

What's your favorite workout?

I love to run! A few other Rockettes and I recently completed our first marathon in Berlin.

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

A new broadcaster. My best friend and I used to make my parents watch us give a fake broadcast in the living room. We even set up a news desk and had fake microphones.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Dark chocolate

What's your favorite book?

"The Traveler's Gift"

What's your most-watched TV show?

"Game of Thrones"—I can't believe it's almost the last season!

What's the strangest thing in your dance bag?

Peppermint Foot Spray. It's essential.

What's the most-played song on your playlist?

Alicia Keys "Empire State of Mind." During my first year as a Radio City Rockette, I listened to it every day on the way to rehearsal to remind myself how lucky I am to be on this incredible journey in this amazing city.

What's your advice for young dancers?

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

South America. It's been on my list of places to visit. My fiancé and I are thinking about it as a honeymoon trip, so hopefully we'll check it off soon!

What's your go-to stress reliever?

A good vinyasa yoga class. Being in a calming yoga studio after navigating the busy streets of NYC is the best way to take a moment for myself and ease my mind and body.

Who would play you in a movie?

Jessica Chastain—since we're both redheads!

What's one food you can't live without?

Greek salad. I could eat it for every meal.

Who can always make you laugh?

The Rockettes I share a dressing room with at Radio City. They're the best!

What's something no one knows about you?

I did karate, gymnastics, softball, soccer, rode horses, and played competitive piano as a kid.

Where do you feel happiest?

At the lake back home in Seattle, WA. I absolutely love being on the water, and the backdrop of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline is so incredibly special.

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "The Dirt with Natalie Reid."

If you think you know this classic holiday bop, prepare to think again.

Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is many wonderful things. It's a terrific up-tempo tune for bellowing in the car with your dance friends on the way to Nutcracker rehearsal. It's the perfect accompaniment to many a hilarious viral video. And now, it's the melancholy backdrop to all the lonelier feels the holiday season can bring.

Way back in September, indie songstress Ingrid Michaelson released a slowed-down, strings-heavy duet version of the well-known track. Last week, the video debuted—and it'd be the understatement of the season to say that it's making us see the song in a whole new light.

In the retro-tinged black-and-white clip, aching vocals from Michaelson and duet partner Leslie Odom, Jr.—who you know as Aaron Burr from Hamilton—are perfectly matched by their dancer alter egos: respectively, contemporary-dance royalty Chantel Aguirre and dancer/model (swoon) Ehizoje Azeke.

As Michaelson told People, "The dancers represent our souls and emotions and their interplay, while Leslie and I are separated by distance. [It] really illustrates this longing in a beautiful way. To me, the song is really about longing for someone who can't be there with you. We stripped it down, added strings and tried to pull the sentiment and emotion to the forefront."

Michaelson's music videos have always been über-creative examples of how to complicate and expand the narrative set by lyrics (Exhibit A and Exhibit B). But with the considerable talent of Stacey Tookey (who choreographed and directed) on board, it's safe to say this one-take (!!) clip is a new creative high. Other musicians, take note: Dancers as committed as Azeke and Aguirre will—with apologies to Mariah—make your [music-video] wish come true.

All we want for Christmaaaaaaaaaaaaas is to watch this over and over again until January 1. (We're not crying; you're crying!)

Ingrid Michaelson - All I Want for Christmas Is You Feat. Leslie Odom Jr. (Official Music Video) www.youtube.com

This week on "Dancing with the Stars: Juniors" the five remaining couples showed off their dancing chops as they time traveled to different decades and performed the signature dance styles of each era. These little dancing machines covered everything from the Charleston of the roaring '20s to jazz from the '80s and learned a thing or two about history along the way. Mandla Morris and Brightyn Brems even performed a futuristic paso doble.

But it's Miles Brown and Rylee Arnold who stole the show with their 1950's themed jive. The high-energy piece was a spin-off of the ever popular "I Love Lucy" TV show, and we can honestly say we think Lucille Ball would approve. Miles' and Rylee's portrayal of the characters perfectly lent itself to the cute story line. On top of that, Miles' technique was so precise and in sync with Rylee that he looked like he could be one of the pro dancers. This was one of the duo's best performances and with moves like that, we're completely onboard with an "I Love Miles" series!

Miles & Rylee's Jive - DWTS Juniors www.youtube.com

Did you know that, right now, there's a big party happening in your gastrointestinal tract, with billions of bacteria? It's known as your microbiome, and it's filled with both healthy and unhealthy bacteria, including probiotics—a healthy kind that can provide your dancer bod with a bevy of benefits. Dance Spirit turned to Tiffany Mendell, MS, RDN, CDN, of Lara Metz Nutrition in NYC, for a crash course on all things probiotic, and the best ways to incorporate them into your diet.

What Are Probiotics (and Prebiotics)?

"Probiotics are the good guys—bacteria that help in everything from aiding digestion to synthesizing vitamins like vitamin K, which is essential for strong bones," says Mendell. "They also play a key role in your immune system by maintaining a protective layer around the GI tract, which prevents toxins from entering the bloodstream." Prebiotics are "basically the food for probiotics," Mendell explains. They help sustain the population of probiotics in your gut.

Where Can I Get Them?

"The best way to incorporate probiotics into your routine is through food itself," Mendell says. You can find probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi, tempeh, or kombucha. When it comes to prebiotics, reach for fiber-filled foods like oats, leeks, asparagus, garlic, onions, or bananas. Mendell stresses that "while all prebiotics contain fiber, not all fiber is prebiotic."

Getty Images

Wondering how to include these foods in your diet? Mendell suggests the following: "Oatmeal with nuts and berries for breakfast; a salad with tempeh, steamed leeks, and gouda cheese for lunch; yogurt and a banana for a pre-rehearsal snack; and a turkey burger with pickles, sweet potato, and asparagus for a post-performance dinner."

What's Up with Supplements?

Supplements are sold over-the-counter, but Mendell advises getting probiotics through food when you can. "However, taking a probiotic supplement when you're on antibiotics for an illness is fine, though it's important to consult your doctor first," she says. That's because antibiotics not only help kill the unhealthy bacteria in your system, they also wipe out all the good bacteria in the process. Supplements help to replenish it.

How Can They Help My Dancing?

There's nothing worse than having to make it through a tough class while feeling bloated and uncomfortable. "If you're prone to gastrointestinal issues, increasing your intake of pre- and probiotic-rich foods can promote a healthy GI tract," Mendell says. Additionally, probiotics play a key role in your immune system, and can help stave off every dancer's winter nemesis: the common cold.

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "Going Pro (biotic)."

Just when you thought it was safe to stop shopping...

Heading back to the studio after the food-filled relaxation of Turkey Day weekend is always tough. Thank goodness, then, that Cyber Monday is here to make heading back to class feel just the slightest bit more bearable, with steeply discounted prices on all your favorite dancewear brands. That's why we've rounded up nine of the best Monday-only sales, just for you and your favorite dancers. Happy shopping!

Apolla Performance Wear

Spend $50 or more on apollaperformance.com today, and you'll get free shipping to your U.S. mailing address. (International customers ordering more than $50 of merchandise will get a $5.95 credit applied to their cart at checkout.)

Abigail Mentzer Designs

AMD has a terrific trifecta of special offers for today only: Free shipping on all domestic orders, 15% off your next order placed between January 1 and March 31, 2019, and a free AMD water bottle when you purchase the "Phoenix" or "Starlet" (shown above) three-skirt gift set.

Danskin

Everything on danskin.com (with the exception of the new Jenna Dewan collection and any items already marked Final Sale) can be yours at 50% off with coupon code CYBERWOW. Spending more than $100? You'll net an extra 10% off.

Jo+Jax

With different levels of discounts across joandjax.com, you're sure to end up with a cart full of pleasant surprises. Ready, set, go!

Discount Dance Supply

Hurry up and snag your free makeup palette with a $45 purchase from discountdance.com while supplies last. You'll get free shipping in the bargain—and a free leotard when you buy two from select styles.

Capezio

Now through December 1, use code HANAMI when purchasing a pair of Hanami shoes, and you'll get a free pair of tights. "Perfect pairing" much?

Bloch Inc.

In addition to certain items being half off their original price, you can get free shipping on orders over $50 when you use coupon code CYBER18. No excuse not to stock up!

Soffe

This one's a simple, sweet deal: Basically half off anything on soffe.com! Soffe's billing this as their biggest sale of the year, so don't hesitate if you were planning to load up on classroom basics.

Louise Apparel

It's rare to find a sale on custom-fit items, but that's the beauty of Cyber Monday! Today, get 20% off former New York City Ballet dancer Ellen Warren's leotards, briefs, and calf warmers using code SMALLBIZ.

Your biscuits aren't the only things that take a beating during Nutcracker season—your (constantly sprayed, straightened, curled, and gelled) hair does, too. And while using heat tools and products is inevitable, there are plenty of ways to maintain a healthy mane through December. Here are our top tips.

Down ’n’ Out! 

Wearing a ballet bun every day can slowly weaken your hair and cause it to break, so make sure to take your hair down right after each performance is over. Carefully undo your bun, spray your hair with some water, and use your fingers to massage your scalp and roots in a circular motion, which will stimulate blood flow and loosen the hair.

Conditioner Is Key

Conditioner is the secret weapon to cleansing your hair of residual spray and gel. Use your favorite conditioner in the shower every day, then apply a leave-in treatment with added oils, like argan oil, overnight.

Skip the Shampoo

Shampooing your hair daily can potentially strip your scalp of its natural oils (which can backfire and cause your hair to become more oily). Instead, alternate between regular shampoo and dry shampoo—the latter will keep your hair clean without stripping it.

Battle Buildup with Baking Soda

If you're dealing with an unpleasant buildup of hairspray around the roots of your hair, shampoo and conditioner alone won't cut it. Mix 2 tablespoons of your shampoo with 1 tablespoon of baking soda until it looks like a smooth paste. Add the mixture to a comb, run it through your dry hair, and let it sit for 15 minutes. The baking soda will break down any hairspray residue. Finally, hop in the shower and rinse it all out, then shampoo and condition your hair like you normally would.

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "Going Pro (biotic)."

Nothing kicks off the holiday season quite like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. From boppin' elves to singing Christmas trees, the parade is one to watch—and definitely one to dance in. Every year, the famed Spirit of America Dance Star team performance gathers tons of dancers from high schools and studios from across the country. So what was it really like to dance in the parade last Thursday? We caught up with Spirit of America dancer Liliann DeVos to hear how the day big day went, and what she had to do to prepare. Liliann is a 17-year-old dancer from Frisco, TX, who serves as the captain of the Wakeland High School Legacy Line and is a member of the Next Step Dance Senior Drill Company. Read on for the deets!

Dance Spirit: How were you selected to join the Spirit of America Dance Stars team?

Liliann DeVos: I qualified to join through competitions with my high school drill team this past spring by scoring well in our team routines.

DS: What did you do to prepare for the parade?

LD: Before I got to NYC, I learned the dance from a video and spent a lot of time planning what to wear to stay warm during the parade. Once I got there, the rehearsals were focused on cleaning the dance—it took a lot of work to transform 665 girls from many different dance backgrounds into one cohesive group. The first night we set the formation before we ever did the dance. Then we started learning our specific parts and a few choreography changes. In each rehearsal after that, we would continue along in the dance, polishing each part (sometimes even one single count) until it was perfect. It was a super-specific and fun process!

DS: What were the days leading up to the parade like?

LD: In the days before the parade, we got to enjoy the city while we were preparing for our performance. My whole group flew in on Saturday morning for the first rehearsal that night. Then on Sunday night after a day of rehearsals, everyone went to see Aladdin, which was absolutely amazing. Monday night, we all traveled on the subway together to go to Herald Square for a television rehearsal with NBC, and that was for sure one of my favorite parts of the trip. It was so exciting. We also had a full dress rehearsal Wednesday morning for our parents, which then turned into a show-off with Spirit of America Cheer and the Rangerettes.

DS: What was the day of the parade like?

LD: The morning of the parade I woke up at 4 am to be completely ready and downstairs by 5:45. We ran through the dance a few times, then took the subway to the American Museum of Natural History, all bundled up in blankets, gloves, and other extra clothes to be donated. The extra clothes were items we could slip on to stay warm before the parade started, such as sweatpants, scarves, ear warmers, and blankets, and then they were donated to the Association to Benefit Children in NYC by both Spirit of America dance and cheer teams. It was really special to see the huge piles of things to be donated as we were leaving because we all knew they would help so many people to stay warm this winter! The museum opened up for us to wait inside and stay warm. Then we went out onto the parade route at about 10 am.

DeVos and the group from her dance school before the parade (courtesy DeVos)

DS: How did it feel to perform on the streets of NYC?

LD: Performing in NYC on Thanksgiving was the most surreal experience I've ever had. The crowds were so energetic, I couldn't help but smile and wave nonstop! I kept looking up toward the buildings to see the way every single balcony was packed. But the most amazing part was rounding the corner at Herald Square, looking at the girls around me, and soaking in that moment.

DS: How did you handle the cold and the crowds while walking and performing in the parade?

LD: The parade was so enthralling that I hardly noticed the cold, and the crowds were so much fun to perform for! Their energy was contagious, and I definitely fed off of it to perform even bigger and better.

The Spirit of America Dance Stars performing on Thanksgiving (screenshot via WRAL-TV)

DS: What was it like coming together and working with dancers from around the country?

LD: It was so much fun to work with dancers from all over the country. I made some really great friends from different cities in Texas, as well as some girls from Nashville, TN. It was such a unique experience to learn about other dance teams and meet other dancers.

DS: What was the most rewarding part of the whole process? And the most challenging?

LD: The best part of this trip may have been getting to experience NYC and the parade with my friends, both new and old. They made rehearsals fun and helped me to make memories I'll have forever. The worst part of my trip was the cold. I'm a Texas girl and have never experienced that kind of cold.

ICYMI, click here to watch the full parade performance!

It's #GivingTuesday, and people around the world are giving back. So how can you? Check out how these organizations that are making a difference—one dance move at a time.

Movement Exchange

Movement Exchange is an organization that combines dance and service. With 21 chapters at universities across the U.S. and international exchanges in Panama and Brazil, Movement Exchange strives to strengthen community bonds and build confidence through dance. The organization runs dance classes for underserved communities and hosts an annual fundraising and dance awareness day organized differently by each individual chapter.

How to Get Involved: Donate today or, if you're in college, look to join (or start!) a chapter at your own university!

Dancewear Drive

Make use of the dance clothes you've outgrown or no longer want, and donate them to Dancewear Drive—an organization that takes gently used dancewear and gives it to students in need. Based out of L.A., the Dancewear Drive accepts donations from across the country with Dancer Delegates working nationwide to oversee collections in their own communities. All donations benefit dance organizations with special programs for students who could not attend dance classes on their own.

How to Get Involved: Visit collection sites in the L.A. area or send your dancewear here! If you're age 13 and up, you can even apply to become a delegate of the Dancewear Drive to start collecting in your own hometown.

Dizzy Feet Foundation

You may know the Dizzy Feet Foundation from its sponsorship of every dancer's fave holiday, National Dance Day. But Dizzy Feet does so much more. For 10 years, this organization has helped bring dance to underserved communities, providing classes and programs that otherwise would be impossible. The foundation gives grants to eligible organizations across the country. Through dance, Dizzy Feet works to improve lives and inspire a new generation of dancin' fiends.

How to Get Involved: Donate online today, or get involved during the next National Dance Day!

Dancing Dreams

Dancing Dreams is an organization that provides dance classes and performance opportunities for kids, teens, and young adults with physical disabilities. Operating under a mantra of everybody can dance, each class is modified depending on the needs of the dancers to ensure that each person can participate. The annual performance includes sets and costumes, giving the dancers a full-blown performance experience.

How to Get Involved: Volunteer with the Dancing Dreams Leadership Program for teens in the NYC or Long Island area and work weekly with students in classes. Help out with their annual performance as well!

The Dance Magazine Awards are almost here. As we look forward to the celebration on Monday night, we're sharing an excerpt from the program—a letter written by our CEO Frederic Seegal:

The 61st year of the Dance Magazine Awards represents a major step forward. It extends the reach of the awards and now marks the second year of our collaboration with the Harkness Foundation for Dance, thus uniting two iconic organizations.

Firstly, this will be the inaugural presentation of the Harkness Promise Awards, which recognizes new talent at the upswing of their careers. Nurturing emerging artists, especially choreographers, is critical to ensuring dance's role in today's cultural landscape.

Secondly, through the establishment of the Leadership Award, we acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of individuals who have enabled dance to flourish as a result of their efforts, whether they are presenters, producers, impresarios or funders. Without them, neither dancers nor choreographers would likely have a place to practice and excel at their craft.

Get your tickets to the Dance Magazine Awards.

For contemporary dancer Jaxon Willard, having over 57,000 followers on Instagram comes with the territory of being a top contestant on "World of Dance" last season. The 17-year-old American Fork, UT, native watched as tons of fans flooded his account after his first national TV appearance—people around the world connected with Jaxon's emotional and super-vulnerable performance expressing his feelings about being adopted. But what's it really like to become an Instagram sensation overnight? And how is Jaxon's life different now? Here, he tells his social media story. —Courtney Bowers

Humble Beginnings

I joined Instagram in 2012, when I was in seventh grade. I would post whatever I wanted, like ugly selfies and funny videos, because I had about five followers. Then, as I started dancing, I gained more and more followers, and I suddenly felt like I could only post videos of me dancing or doing cool tricks.

Going Viral

The day before I appeared on "World of Dance," I had about 5,000 followers; by the morning, I'd jumped to 11,000. I remember the exact moment—it was super-overwhelming because it happened out of nowhere. I was just hanging out with my friends! "WOD" releases in different time zones, so before it even aired in my state, half of the world had already seen it. There was so much activity my Instagram stopped working and I couldn't refresh anything. I had to delete the app and email them to fix it.

Jaxon's Instagram page

A New Normal

Getting so many followers so quickly was a huge change. I get noticed in public all the time. I'll be in the mall or on family vacations and people will stop to ask for pictures. I'm very grateful for it, because it means I have a lot of love and support, but it definitely is different.

Overall, my friends at school are really supportive of me. No one gets mad or jealous—they're just happy that I'm able to make a name for myself in the dance world. Sometimes, though, they don't really get it. If we're hanging out together and someone recognizes me, my friends are really surprised and say, "Whoa, I didn't know it was that big of a deal."

Staying Balanced

I never read the comments on my page, my dad usually does. But I'm aware I've gotten some negative ones. They actually motivate me to do better. I just strive to be better than I was before.

A lot of people also tell me that I have to post frequently on Instagram to stay relevant, but I've never understood that. After I appeared on the show, I felt like I was finally able to post things that showed off more of my personality.

When I do feel too much pressure to post, I know it's time for a break. I took one for a while after Nationals this past summer. I felt like I had to perform well and place high because people knew me from "WOD" and were expecting me to do well. I started thinking that I had to dance for them instead of for myself. When I placed third at both Nationals I attended, a lot of people were shocked and that's when I decided I needed to get off of social for a bit. I needed to remember who I was, and that competition isn't my whole life. I dance because I love it and not because of the attention.

I only follow my friends' accounts on social media because I feel like if I get caught up in really big names, I'll feel pressure to post just like them. I don't ever want to change how I post or what I post about. It's so important to always stay true to yourself. You can't get caught up in how many followers you have. I really try not to forget who I was before my Instagram went viral.

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "Becoming Insta-Famous Overnight."

The holidays are just around the corner and that means it's time to get your wish lists finalized. And while we have no doubt that stylish leos and cozy warm-ups will find their way onto your list, we think you'll want to consider adding some of these lit dance books to your holiday lineup, too. From revamped Nutcracker tales to biographies of your favorite dance stars, we've rounded up the latest and greatest books that every dancer will want to see in their stockings this season.

"The Dance of the Realms" by Calliope Glass

If you're like us and can't get enough of the new movie The Nutcracker and the Four Realms than this book is for you. Thanks to the book's intricate illustrations, you can relive all the magic of the live-action film with the turn of the page. And with a foreword by Misty Copeland herself, you'll want to make this book a part of your holiday traditions every year!

"Girl on Pointe" by Chloe Lukasiak

"Dance Moms" reality TV star Chloe Lukasiak proves she's more than a dancer in her revealing new memoir. From medical issues to bullying, Chloe delves into her life as a child star and the challenges that come with stardom. Chloe's "guide to taking on the world" is filled with heart-warming anecdotes and inspirational advice to tackle everything from tough dance teachers to social media struggles. Get your "Dance Moms" fix and pick up a copy of Chloe's Girl on Pointe.

"Nutcracker Coloring & Craft Book" by Vanessa Salgado

This interactive workbook is as fun as it is festive. Whether you're new to the barre or you're a seasoned dancer preparing for your studio's performance of The Nutcracker, you and your fellow bunheads will have a blast coloring all the fantastical characters from the beloved holiday ballet. Between costume masks and paper-dolls this Crafterina book gives you creative license to create your own version of The Nutcracker—and what could be better then that!

"I'll Never Change My Name" by Val Chmerkovskiy

You may know Valentin Chmerkovskiy as a world-championship-winning ballroom dancer who captivated America on "Dancing with the Stars" and as a current judge on "Dancing with the Stars: Juniors," but in his new book I'll Never Change My Name, Chmerkovskiy reveals what it took to get there. From his childhood in the Ukraine to moving to the U.S., Chmerkovskiy reveals the formative moments that have influenced him on his journey to international fame as a pro on "DWTS." See Chmerkovskiy like you never have before in this heartfelt memoir that reminds dancers that the path to being the best is never the easiest.

"The Enchanted Sonata" by Heather Dixon Wallwork

This tale is a twist on The Nutcracker. The whimsical plot takes Clara Stahlbaum to an enchanted realm where an evil magician uses music to control and manipulate those within his realm. So whether you're a fan of timeless stories or you're looking for a fresh adventure, The Enchanted Sonata is the perfect combination—it'll keep you guessing with every chapter.

"Pirouette Surgery" by Rosina Andrews

Let's be honest, turning is hard. But thanks to Rosina Andrews' book Pirouette Surgery, it doesn't have to be. Whether you struggle to land a single pirouette or you do triples in your sleep, this book will take your turns to the next level. Brimming with tips, tricks, and exercises this book will revolutionize the way you go about your pirouettes. And you don't have to take our word for it: World record holder for pirouettes and ballet all-star Sophia Lucia shares her advice for tackling turns within these pages, too. Pick up a copy and transform into the terrific turning 'trina you've longed to become.

Contemporary dancer Chantel Aguirre's powerful presence and regal, fluid movement can enchant audiences in seconds—and have helped make her a commercial-world icon. The Santa Cruz, CA, native started dancing at age 2 at her mother's studio, Ballet Repertoire Theatre. When she was a freshman in high school, she enrolled at the San Francisco Ballet School while also competing with the Dance Company of San Francisco. Since then, she's worked with artists including Taylor Swift, Christina Perri, Beyoncé, Carrie Underwood, and Adele, and with companies including Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet, Justin Giles' SoulEscape, Billy Bell's Lunge Dance Collective, and Stacey Tookey's Still Motion. Currently, you can catch her touring with Travis Wall's Shaping Sound and teaching at NUVO.—Courtney Bowers

Chantel,

I know this is wild, but I'm writing to you from your future, and, boy, is your future bright. You won't be disappointed about where this beautiful world will lead you. I want you to always remember the way you see things. I want you to close your ears when people tell you you're naive for seeing the world the way you do. I want you to know that you can affect those around you with that way of seeing light. Don't let anyone dim it.

The hours you spent in the car driving to ballet, the missed parties in high school, the humiliation of putting on your prom dress in the car—they will all be worth it. That hard work and determination will lead you to accomplish, and even surpass, your current dreams. I know you want to do it all, but just breathe, focus on one thing at a time, and enjoy the madness. Always thank your mom and dad for their unwavering belief and support.

Aguirre at age 3 (courtesy Aguirre)

Your deep love for your art will lead you to the best things in life. You're currently meeting and creating a forever family of humans that deeply care for you. Keep them close. They love you, and will be a safe home on the days that are difficult. One day, those humans will be standing by your side at your wedding. They will be your biggest inspirations, mentors, fellow artists, and creators.

Through this art, you'll find and marry the love of your life, eventually traveling the world and learning, laughing, adventuring, creating, and teaching together. You'll perform truly challenging work that inspires you to the core. You'll even complete a tour with a dance company filled with your best friends and your husband! Yes, it will be bliss.

Let go of that feeling that you only have two choices, the "ballet world" and the "commercial world." Because on the horizon there's a beautiful melding of the things you love most, and you'll be right in the middle of it all. So trust yourself, keep your heart open, stay wild, be brave, and smile at every human you pass.

Love,

Chantel

A version of this story appeared in the December 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "Letter to My Teenage Self: Chantel Aguirre."

If you've ever seen Disney Channel's "Coop & Cami Ask the World," you know 13-year-old Ruby Rose Turner can bust a move. And having appeared on "Dancing with the Stars", we're certain Ruby has a lot more moves that are just waiting to be performed. So when we heard she released a dance video we lost our chill. Now the dancing machine wants to help you learn the moves to Ruby Rock.

In her newly released video tutorial Ruby and her dance crew demonstrate how to do everything from the Dust Off to the Wiggle Wop. They even break down the featured dance step of the video, known as the Ruby Rock. And we have to give a shoutout to our fave dance darling (and January 2018 cover star) Charlize Glass who completely owns these moves with a flair that's all her own. With dance instructors like this, there's no way you won't nail this fun and fab choreography. Check out this video and see if you have what it takes to Ruby Rock.

How to Ruby Rock! | Coop & Cami Ask the World | Disney Channel www.youtube.com

You can catch Ruby's original routine here.

Ruby Rose Turner - Ruby Rock www.youtube.com

In our "Dear Katie" series, former NYCB soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email dearkatie@dancespirit.com for a chance to be featured!

Dear Katie,

I can't stop looking at myself in the mirror during class! My teachers are always calling me out for "mirror face." How can I break the habit?

Alessandra

Dear Alessandra,

"Mirror face" can be such a difficult habit to break. But there are a few tricks that might make the process easier.

As silly as this sounds, when you're taking class, pretend you're onstage. There's no mirror when you're performing, and bringing that mind-set to class will help you stop relying on your reflection. Picture yourself in a beautiful costume and headpiece; envision an audience watching you.

Remember, too, that looking in the mirror isn't the only way to determine if your lines are good. When you hit a strong technical position, focus on the feel of what your muscles are doing. The more you can become aware of how steps should feel, rather than look, the less reliant you'll be on the mirror for self-correction.

And whenever you can, dance facing away from the mirror—that's the simplest way to break the "mirror face" habit. It definitely feels weird at first, but eventually you'll learn to trust yourself without consulting your mirror doppelganger.

For more of Katie's helpful tips and advice, click here.