Nicole is a multi-talented proud mom of 2 grown wonderful children, writer, artist, athlete, gardener, cook, software engineer-architect, inventor, and public speaker. She lives in South Minneapolis. She most enjoys her time on the hockey rink with her team or her kids. For some this is news, and for others along for the ride this is added context - Nicole also has a first-hand transgender experience.

Why is she here?

First and foremost, the goal in her writing on Medium is self exploration. It keeps her grounded, and helps her more effectively process the goings on in her life. It was one of her therapist's ideas; paired with her love of the pen, it stuck.

A word about trans-ness:

Do you know the saying? If you have met one trans person...

...you've met one trans person. She does intend to convey a message. But, uniquely, the message she aims to convey is hers and hers alone. She does not consider herself the most well-read, nor the smartest person in the room. She cannot tell the story of others. She can only tell hers.

Timeline:

And of course, she cannot indemnify herself from internal bias. For instance, she grew up in the 70s and 80s, became an adult in the 90s, and spent her first 45 years in the closet. She is painfully aware of how much her experience differs from her trans peers who are living their out and authentic selves in their 20s in the modern world.

A word about AI:

She also spends quite a bit of time researching AI lately... interestingly, she has never (would never) even consider welcoming AI into her writing room. The art of the pen is a true craft. Words matter - their meaning, placement, rhythm and meter. But their sheer playfulness, or sharp and cutting impact, among many other expressions display vividly their ability to emote, that of which AI can only synthesize.

Thank you for being here. I appreciate you. And I truly hope you enjoy reading my story.