So the Chicago show is just around the corner. Who is ready?

I was recently chatting with one of my fellow bloggers who wasn't aware that you can send in your art. So let me inform you guys, if you're not attending a show and would like to compete, check the rules because most of the time you do not have to even be present for the art competitions. You can just mail in your art and your essay. Isn't that fun?

So even if you can’t make the trip you can still join in the nail art competition fun.

I’m not much of a procrastinator in my normal day-to-day life, but for some reason when it comes to competing I am. I've laid most of my art down by now but I have to make sure I clean it up as much as possible and add all the little extra touches — shading and shadows and all that fun stuff. The theme is Time, which wasn’t too hard for me.

But here is a tip: Before you start your nail art with paint, buff the nail so it is rough. The roughness will help the paint adhere better, just make sure you dust it off perfectly.

And remember you’re allowed to use polish as well (always read the rules to make sure) so pick up some art pens and make your life easier. My brushes gave me a hard time this week so I had to clean them up nicely and allow them to dry and let them get their shape again.

Competing is so exciting though.

I feel a totally different excitement for this one because I’m mailing it in, so I can take my time, and take it all in and enjoy it.

— Roxy Carrillo