Updating some notes on my life, for both personal reasons and to reconsider the aborted autobiography on life without knowing you are autistic, is depressing. A long list of personal and professional failings. Writing is my refuge, even though I haven’t made a career of it. When I get paid…
The Autistic Me
The end of a school year normally comes with a sigh of relief. Instead, this year ended COVID-19 style, accompanied with anxiety about the future of schools, teachers, and even if our daughters will be on campus in August. This was our first year in Texas, so both girls were…
Podcast Episode 0036; Season 03, Episode 08; May 9, 2020 Technology has empowered many disabled individuals, directly and indirectly. For the autistic community, online spaces offer opportunities to socialize and connect, without the challenges of physical spaces and social cues. Unlike many of the autistics I’ve met, I’m not interested…
While many people seem eager for a “return to normal” as we shelter-at-home during the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m not ready for normal. The coronavirus situation only reinforces how comfortable my wife and I are not running around town or dashing about just to be doing something different. This isn’t to…
Recently, a Facebook follower asked what interests me. What are my passions? Some are surprised to learn that my interests and passions don’t include autism. I love music and art, but I’m great at neither music nor art. I am good with technology and love all things computer-related. So, naturally,…
Autism Awareness Day is April 2, and April is Autism Awareness Month. The day and month are a big deal for Autism Speaks and the Autism Society of America. Normally, these organizations receive a lot of media attention. In response, some autistic-led groups are usually asked for comment and some…
Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in a shelter-in-place order for our county in Central Texas. As an autistic parent and teacher, I’m not bothered by the order to remain home as much as possible. This is my preferred routine, anyway, with some exceptions. My wife and I are introverts, obviously.…
And so the “Coronavirus Disease 2019” (COVID-19) has led to the cancellation of my medical appointments (including a minor surgery) , the closure of our YMCA, an extended spring break for our daughters, runs on basic grocery items, a national toilet paper shortage (that isn’t real, but caused by panic),…
Making excuses bothers me, yet here I am apologizing. The Autistic Me Podcast and the blog are both a bit off-track as 2020 begins. Despite hoping I could manage a twice-monthly or so schedule for the podcast and weekly posts for the blog, my recent exercise-induced knee injury and some general…
Podcast Episode 0031; Season 03, Episode 03; October 14, 2019 My theory is that a need for order and predictability corresponds to a desire to reduce cognitive overhead. I seek to control my workspace, my spaces at home, and my belongings. I don’t seek to organize spaces that are not…