Dear Friends,
I am so eager to share a couple of fun updates! Some celebration among the dysregulation drama. I feel better today, anyway, though still on edge.
The first is that I had my first sleepover at my younger sister’s home. She and Tara live about 45 minutes from me. They also live closer to a lot of cultural and social places that I enjoy. So I have long wanted to try spending the night at their homes, so I could enjoy a night out on the town more easily. But I haven’t felt up for trying because my mind struggles to feel at ease when I am tired and I know I could be at home without too much inconvenience. I am generally fine in hotels out of town, but I find I really cling to home when I am anywhere in San Diego.
But the Spellers Freedom Foundation Conference was a good opportunity to try. It was held closer to my sisters’ homes, so I decided to try spending a night with my younger sister and her husband. They have a nice spare bedroom. So after the first day of the conference, Tara and I went over and chilled out with them. Then Tara left and our sister was the best host. I felt safe and welcomed and happy, if tired. She had bought so many good options for breakfast the next day, and I loved walking with her in her neighborhood before Tara picked me up the next morning.
That was such a nice achievement. It made me more confident in my ability to be a bit more flexible in my San Diego routine. And I love spending time with my younger sister and her husband.
The next thing to share is that I held my first coffee hour gathering. Tara organized a few friends who don’t otherwise have much exposure to nonspeaking autistic folks. It was so nice to chat with them and to feel their interest and willingness to learn. I felt respected and cared for. It was lovely to educate people in a friendly and casual way. I want to thank all of them sincerely for taking the time to show up.
I hope to host regular coffee hours. Let me know if you are in San Diego and have ideas for locations and people who might want to join and learn.
I really like the coffeeshop where we met; they have a great, cool, and welcoming vibe at Steady State Roasting. I would love suggestions for independent and cool coffeeshops anywhere in San Diego County.
I am glad to share good updates among the tough ones.
Take care and enjoy your weekend!
Your Friend,
Danny
