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…
The Autistic Me
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…
The chessboard at Morro Bay, California, is near some of my favorite places to sit and relax. When I took the girls to California, the oldest asked me to teach her chess after seeing that board. She wasn’t quite ready, but I intended to keep my word. As an autistic…
We are all more than what observers believe us to be. It’s been brought to my attention that The Autistic Me blog and podcast have been located and read by potential employers. I am not The Autistic Me, and anyone assuming to know me from this blog alone — or…
Exercise is a matter of staying alive and healthy for me. When I don’t exercise every two to four hours, I get a headache and chest pains. The palsy increases, as do my autistic sensory issues. Add to this the inevitable anxiety (panic), I know exactly what I need to…
The year 2020 needs to be more relaxed, and that means adjusting my plans and goals. Now that I’m in my 50s, it doesn’t make much sense to keep chasing some goals that are unlikely. They might happen, but chasing them would be too emotionally and physically draining. Parenting Responsibility…
Welcome to 2020. The year 2019 wasn’t too bad and I have to assume 2020 will be better. Yes, there were disappointments and struggles in 2019, but overall it was a good year. My wife and I officially became the adoptive parents of our two daughters. We love them and…