My friend thinks that I’m crazy for always living on the edge.
I mean… maybe. But I’m not out there skydiving or cliff-jumping. I just like to take risks, push limits, and do the things that give me a little adrenaline rush. It’s my way of breaking out of routine.
Not long ago, I parked my car in a NYC garage that closes at midnight. We were still at a nearby social event when my friend nudged me once, twice, maybe ten times before I finally looked at the time. It was 11:52 PM. Eight minutes to sprint back before the garage closed and we’d be car-less until morning. We made it at 11:58. She says she is still traumatized. I thought it was fun.
Maybe I just don’t like following the rules. Or doing what everyone else is doing.
Which brings me to something I’ve been seeing a lot on social media lately. There’s this trend where people post things like “Propaganda I’ll never fall for again” or “Things I won’t do now that I’m older or wiser or whatever.” Basically, it’s people dropping bold opinions or going against the grain, and I respect that.
But personally? I don’t love trends. They come and go too fast, and half the time people are just repeating what’s popular. It’s overrated.
On the other hand, I do love honesty. So I’m still skipping the trend, skipping the BS, and sharing a few things that feel real to me right now.
1. Basing my political views on social media? Hard pass.
I’m all for staying informed, except I’m not letting a reel or a carousel post tell me what to think. If something matters to me, I’ll dig deeper. I’m not here to repost, repeat, or follow blindly.
2. The “Let Them” theory? Not always that simple.
Mel Robbins is everywhere right now with this “Let them” thing. And sure, sometimes it’s the move. Let them go. Let them show you who they are. But other times? It feels like an easy way to avoid hard conversations. Some people need to be told, not just let go.
3. “Deaf is a superpower”? Ehh.
I get the intention. It’s meant to be empowering. The thing is, I’ve never needed to be called a superhero to feel proud of being Deaf. I recently saw the Deaf President Now (DPN) film, and it reminded me that Deaf identity doesn’t need to be glorified to be powerful. It already is.
Those are the top three things that have been sitting with me. And watching the DPN film also stirred something bigger.
👆(Conversations that matter. Moderator (left), Nyle DiMarco (center), and Greg Hlibok (right) bringing insight to the stage.)
What if the real rebellion isn’t about winning at all, but about refusing to play the game?
That moment in Deaf history wasn’t about chasing power. It was about demanding visibility, respect, and truth. A collective “enough is enough.”
It reminded me how powerful we are when we stop competing and start connecting. Because when we choose connection, we don’t just change the story... we rewrite it.
After the screening, I had a chance to chat with Greg Hlibok, one of the student leaders behind the protest. Hearing the behind-the-scenes stories was pretty cool. And yes, I also met Nyle DiMarco. I joked with him saying, “It’s funny how we know all the same people, the same mutual friends, and somehow we still don’t know each other.” That’s the Deaf community for you. It’s like we’re all cousins, even if we’ve never officially met.
👆 (Me in white, my two ride-or-dies, and Greg Hlibok post interrogation. He earned this photo.)
👆 (Me, Nyle DiMarco, and my girls smizing like it’s the finale week on America’s Next Top Model. Tyra, are you watching?)
I probably should have asked Nyle to dance with me like he did on Dancing with the Stars but hey, next time!
The whole experience left me thinking. There is nothing more radical than showing up as you are, standing with others, and refusing to tolerate the things that keep us small.
Takeaway: Rules are optional. Trends are boring. Keep it real like Jenny from the Block.
Lovecore HQ: What’s Been Happening?
Thank you to everyone who has purchased or promoted the Love Buzz PJ Set on social media. Because of you, it opened doors to new connections and exciting collaborations. I’m truly grateful.
This is one of the many reasons I love doing this work. I get to virtually meet some cool, inspiring people.
Recently, I connected with Naima Johnson and Christina Burke to collaborate on the Love Starts Here Bundle Kit Giveaway for Mental Health Awareness Month. I love how Naima shares practical tools for self-love, growth, and healing. She also founded Deaf Mental Health Hub, which offers ASL accessible resources and providers.
Connecting with Christina was the cherry on top. She owns Trace Essence Co, a beautiful business where she creates natural skincare products made with herbs and essential oils.
This month, I’m trying something new and attending my first Deaf Expo as a vendor. I’ll admit, hosting a booth isn't really my thing. I prefer selling online or eventually through retail. Still, I know pop-up shops are a great way to connect with people and promote the brand. As a young business, I am learning to say yes, even when it’s not my usual scene.
What I’m Loving Right Now (Because Sharing Is Caring):
🎥 Movie: Deaf President Now. How could I not recommend this after everything I just shared above? This film tells the powerful, pivotal story of the 1988 protest that changed Deaf history. If you’ve seen it, I’d love to know what you really think. Hit reply and tell me.
📖 Book: Manifest: Dive Deeper Journal. For anyone who’s into manifestation or just pretending they have their life together. The prompts are fun, easy to follow, and actually get you thinking. Nothing groundbreaking, but the vibe is strong and the energy feels good. A solid reset when your brain needs a soft place to land.
💄 Makeup: MAC Lip Pencil in Talking Points. Smooth, precise, and no dragging across your lips. You can wear it alone or with a gloss for a natural fuller look. This pencil deserves a permanent spot in your makeup bag.
👡 Shoes: Spring Step L’Artiste Artdeco Sandals. Summer is coming, and these are anything but basic. Eclectic, comfy, and easy to slide on or off. And the best part? They look sexy too.
🥣 Snack: Victory Dance Foods - Garden Granola in Beetroot Ginger. This is not your average granola. It’s fresh, earthy, and has a subtle zing. Try it with milk, sprinkle it on yogurt, or throw it on top of whatever needs a little crunch and flavor boost.
What’s Next?
I’m meeting someone next week who could potentially help get Lovecore into a boutique. Fingers crossed. Baby steps are still steps, and I’m here for all of them.
And PAH! The weather is finally warming up on the East Coast. If your PJ game is still stuck in winter mode, the Love Buzz Set is calling. Go ahead, upgrade your life from ‘meh’ to ‘yes, please’… because hot girl summer starts at home. Wink wink.
Remember, share the love. Or at least send someone the link and call it a good deed. 🫶🏼
XO,
Nickie
