We share our personal journeys into the world of competitive dance, discussing the gradual process of understanding and navigating this complex environment. We reflect on early experiences, the challenges of balancing family life with dance commitments, and insights into the importance of community, preparation, and finding joy in dance. Through stories of our very first conventions and competitions, we discuss the chaos and the delight that comes with competitive dance, and a little bit of advice for newcomers to the competitive dance world, understanding that each experience is unique.