Alena Monson

2 months postpartum!

Doing great two months after delivery and really enjoying having my second child! Time is flying even faster than it did with the first, milestones are coming so quickly. Time, please slow down a bit!

Running a business while taking care of two kids is definitely a lot. Finding balance between both can be tricky, with some days demanding more of one than the other, but I’m doing my best to make it work.

There was a time I really thought I’d stop at one child. My overactive thyroid was making me anxious, and I felt like having another might be too much. Age was pushing me to make a decision faster, and I’m really glad I went for it.

I still want to lose about 5 more pounds to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight, where I feel the most comfortable. Not doing anything special, just trying to eat a little less and be mindful.

I actually enjoy being busy, even if it means no real weekends or long vacations. I know I’m not the best at finding perfect work-life balance, but I’ve accepted that, and I just try to do what makes me happy!

It’s a girl! 🩷

Today marks one month since my baby girl was born, she’s healthy, happy, and doing great! I’m also recovering well from my C-section, and everything is going smoothly!

When I announced my pregnancy, I was overwhelmed by all the kind and supportive messages. I feel incredibly grateful to have such a wonderful community!

Given my history of overactive thyroid, a mini-stroke, and being over 35, I was closely monitored throughout my pregnancy. I was lucky to have amazing doctors and so much support along the way. Thankfully, pregnancy hormones worked in my favor, and I didn’t need any medication, despite all the monitoring.

P.S. Check my stories today for a peek at her adorable little face!

Beauty project I’ve been working on for the last 8 months!

After years of struggling with my health, we are finally expecting our second child! Living with the anxiety from an undiagnosed overactive thyroid (Graves’ disease) and experiencing a mini-stroke a couple of years ago was incredibly difficult, but it has shown me that despite the struggles, there’s always light ahead. I hope this post brings a little hope and motivation to anyone facing challenges - don’t give up. There are so many good doctors and people ready to help when you need it.

That stroke really made me rethink so much in my life. In those moments, the most important things become crystal clear - your spouse, your kids, your parents. All I wanted was to see my child, to hold him close. It reminded me that every bit of time, love, and effort we give to our families is worth it, no matter what.

Thankfully, my health is under control now and I’m able to fully enjoy life again!

And don’t worry about and - taking care of a baby won’t slow me down! I actually started building Whats Up while pregnant with my first child, and here we are over 10 years later!

Thank you to the incredibly talented photographers for these stunning photos!
(Phoenix, Arizona)
(Palo Alto, California)

I can’t wait to meet this little one. What do you think - boy or girl? 🩵🩷

I had a stroke and have had terrible anxiety for years...

but I’m in remission now and want to share my story to hopefully help at least one person in this world.

Scroll left to read ➡️

City Lifestyle Chandler Magazine spent some time with me recently asking questions about my upbringing and fondness for makeup and nails which lead to me starting my brand and opening my store in one of the largest indoor malls in Arizona, the Chandler Fashion Center.

The print version will be hitting the racks soon and I hope it gives you some insight into my creative process and my love for the feedback I get from social media!

I've been a long time user and my brands and wouldn’t be where they are without their product and support. Feeling really appreciated as their customer today receiving this beautiful milestone award!

Thank you for putting this together, these wonderful tokens of appreciation truly make all the hard work a little easier!

One of the things that motivates me to create beautiful products is the kind words I read from everyone that used and loved something I made! This gives me so much energy to keep going and I love all of you who give me your honest reviews, you push me to be better.

Feedback credit to:



in.color
walch

Excited to announce that an interview I did with So Scottsdale! magazine is coming out in print this Saturday! In it I discuss my struggles with immigrating to the US and switching my career path to start my brands Whats Up Beauty and Whats Up Nails.

Read the full article by entering https://bit.ly/AMsoscottsdale in your browser or click the link in the bio.

Love you all! ❤️

Featuring Geodes Eyeshadow Palette

Do you like matchy-matchy? I used the same stencils to create hearts on my eyes and nails as well and also nail polish with matching eyeshadow color from our Desert Monsoon collection.

Products Used:
Whats Up Nails Tempest Nail Polish
Whats Up Nails Heart Lines Stencils
Whats Up Beauty Desert Monsoon eyeshadow palette
Whats Up Beauty R101, R102 Eyeshadow Brushes