Hi

Congratulations on your autistic discovery! What a great birthday present!

Hi Pookie and congratulations on your diagnosis. It seems kind of poetic that you were told on your birthday, like being re-born in to a new you!

Good morning Pookie.  I'm on episode 5 of Stranger Things.  I'm guessing you are pretty young compared to me.  My reason for wanting to watch Stranger Things might sound a little gross to you - but hey - you are seeking convo....so here goes.....

Imagine your current TV or film actor/actress crush aged 50+.  Mine was Winona Ryder in my late teens (that's Will's mum in the show.) I thought I'd like to see how was now - and I still think she's got it!  My favourite movie with her from the old days was "Girl Interrupted"... ..potentially a prophetic choice!

Although that was my sole motivation for watching the first episode, I must confess that it the show  has kinda hooked me now.....I like things that keep me guessing/analysing!

I'll see you around on the pages.

Welcome.

Hi, Pookie, and welcome. 

I love Stranger Things too!

Welcome to the forum.

Happy belated birthday! 

Have fun here.

It's been a real struggle to say the least but i'm no longer beating myself up for not performing socially. I did the Camouflaging Autistic Traits test and realized i've used just about every masking/camouflaging technique there is. I've been hiding my true self all this time which is sad but at least i understand myself better now. I have a gift though so it's not all bad

It's great you have a feeling of belonging now too and are understanding yourself better

I found out at 44 last year. Suspicions were growing though! Exhaustion brought me to the assessors’ door. And also (the real tipping point) the brave and diplomatic suggestion of a colleague and friend who is one of those one in a million people that even someone as sensitive as me couldn’t take offence at. In fact I was deeply touched that she cared enough to say ‘maybe you should…’ 

Hi Pookie. Cute name - wasnt that Garfield’s teddy bear’s name too? I hate birthdays as well. I don’t mind adding to my age, I just don’t like focus being turned my way. Albeit well meant. A moments quiet reflection about another turn around the sun, that’s all I need on my birthday. 

favourite show? That there Doctor Who is alright I suppose. I keep meaning to finish Stranger Things season 4, must get to that. Was enjoying it as much as my prevailing mood lets me enjoy anything these days! Anyway, welcome and I hope you like it here. Everyone’s really nice. 

O.M.G 35 years how did u cope that long? It's only been 16 4 me but felt like a hundred billion years! For ages I felt like an outside and so much confusion and now I feel I belong and understand things better. I'm glad ur have your own assessment soon. It will make u feel a lot better

Yes it really is amazing. I've lived in constant confusion for 35 years pretty much, not knowing why i was different but constantly searching for why. I haven't been assessed yet but will be in the next few months. It will just confirm what i already know (that i'm a high functioning autist) 

Hi thx! Nice to meet you. 

The relief is amazing feels so good and a big weight of. So glad you are diagnosed now. 

Hi. I've not seen that will try to tho. Stranger things is so good it's my fave.

Hi Pookie, 

Wishing you a belated happy birthday  

That feeling of relief i know very well as i realized in December myself

Anyway welcome to the forum, nice to have you with us

Jamie

Hi Pookie,

Welcome!  I like the username.  I liked Stranger Things too.  Thinking about it reminded me of 'The OA', which was equally strange and great.  I'd recommend it if you haven't seen it.

Jay 

Hi thank u! It was the best pressie ever!  

Hi Pookie, happy birthday for Tuesday. What a great gift you got. Welcome to the forum.