That One Thing

Recently I was discussing with another Mom her need for Yoga and that she had specific reasons why she liked to go to certain Yoga programs or locations-- She was kinda apologizing for her need to go to specific locations because she just liked them better---
I told her that if that is the one thing that keeps her sane or focused  or centered there is no need to apologize --
This life with Autism affects every member of the family and most of the time in different ways. But; I have discovered that although this is a 24/7 365  job, you have to find a way to either release some of the pent up frustration or a diversion that feels like a guilty pleasure to maintain and even keel with your child.

Look, whether you have a typical child or one that is challenged whether you are young or older when you have your kids there will always be days or at least moments when you wonder what the hell you were thinking having a child-- Or  at least suffer from a pang of selfishness when you want to shove it all and take off for a even an hour just to get away and fool yourself that your life is something made up in your head and you really are not living the life that has unfolded in front of you--- 

I decided a long time ago that I had to have at least ONE THING as a guilty pleasure. A way to indulge myself without compromising the care of my child. A way to pamper myself so I feel like a little piece of me still remains and my total existence is not all for Autism..

For me it is my soap opera {which is now going off the air--OH I digress!} But this is how I do it-- for that one hour out of the day I AM CLOSED FOR BUSINESS--- No phone calls; no appointments; no conversations about Autism; --- This is my lunch hour and if I just sit and veg out then so be it but 1 hour out of 24 is MINE! People laugh and sure there are always exceptions -- Autism doesn't have a schedule but I tape it everyday and somehow I find time to indulge ---

Now for others maybe its getting up early and sitting quietly before the day starts in the household or its a workout -- walk with the dog--- a ball game  maybe its just messing around in the garden or the garage---even an hour of the computer --- Theres a million places and things but all I say is find that ONE THING  and  mark your territory!  Everyone benefits .