I use to be so together. Organize was my middle name. Being a mom of someone with Autism, it is not an option to have things disorganized. If you want to give your child any sort of chance, you need to keep things orderly so they can make sense of life. This means household uncluttered, things in it's place. This means things labeled well. This means routines kept, and schedules made and used.
Since being sick two years ago, my mind just does not work like it did. I, myself am disorganized and I can't seem to get back my mojo. I have designed systems to help, but if you forget to use them, what good is it. I have taken to carrying a calendar with me, but if you forget to check it or lose track of it, well, again, what good is it.
But I now know my scattered brain is out of hand and I need to get serious. How do I know this? Well the canary is telling me so. Max is very sensitive to chaos and he is having a lot of difficulty with his days lately. His staff do a good job helping him go about his day, but autism is tricky and making sense out of chaos for a person with autism is not as simple as it is for everyone else. I know this because for years, this is what I did for a living. I helped families and schools understand people with Autism and help the child make sense of their environment by creating systems that were predictable. I know how to do this. So can you imagine my sadness when my son tells me he is frustrated because he is confused and he needs my help. I am in tears right now just writing this.
So I need to prioritize and make sure Max's schedule and needs are set up for the day before I even think of going anywhere or doing anything. I also need to do a better job with my own scattered brain. But that may take a miracle.
For today, after I get Max squared away, I am going to make the trip north to Whole Foods. Really hate making a special trip, but the list is getting long of gluten free and organic foods that I can't get at my local grocer. Things like pasta, gluten free oats, etc.
2 comments:
Hi! I found that my memory/organization skills are sorely tried as I become older, as if my body is not quite working in top gear. Sound familiar? I surprised myself and hubby when I could remember how some major streets here run into each other. When I'm by myself tho, I think I'll rely on GPS if venturing further than Silverton!
We are slowly getting settled in (really NOT ignoring you!)
Konnie - I'm so sorry that you are feeling overwhelmed! I know that feeling all too well. I quit eating wheat and dairy, and have been really eating super healthy and exercising, and I can't believe the difference it's made in my life. It almost borders on the miraculous. xo
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