My frustration with writing Apple Bloom

So recently I've been taking a look at some episodes of MLP seasons 1-3 in preparation for a crossover story that I'm writing, in attempt to get more intimately familiar with the characters during those seasons, and ensure absolute accuracy when I begin writing them in the story. However one character in particular has been rather difficult for me to analyze. And if the title didn't give it away already, It's Apple Bloom.

You see, my difficulty with Apple Bloom is the fact that the way she's written feels a bit inconsistent. Going from Bridle Gossip to Call of the Cutie to Sisterhoove Social and then to Hearts and Hooves day, Apple Bloom almost feels like a different pony in each one. It's been difficult for me to get a bead on What her ultimate characterization is. I suppose it's possible that I'm just seeing different facets of her character in different situations, but the traits demonstrated don't feel like they often carry over into other episodes. So far, the consistent traits I've seen from her are her eagerness, her high impressionability, and her willingness to help others. I admit that I have deliberately avoided the episodes: The Show Stoppers and The Cutie Pox since the things I've heard about those episodes from others made it sound like the episodes actively detract from her character rather than add to it, and I'm afraid to find out for myself.

It's been quite frustrating for me, since it's making me wonder if I'm just stupid and am misinterpreting Apple Bloom's character or the episodes where she's featured. Nonetheless, I'll redouble my efforts to understand her so that I write her properly once she comes into the story.