Tuesday, January 26, 2016

I can do this.

Well, I've reached a decision. With how lethargic I've been feeling, added to the fact that my parents have been on me about my weight (they NEED to be), I've decided to set a goal for myself: I'm going to lose 20 pounds by my birthday. This gives me two months and 4 days. I plan to cut out fast food for a while, as it has been the bulk of my intake for a long time now, and instead, eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I'm going to do what I did the last time I lost weight before I fell off the horse: look at it as not a diet, but rather a lifestyle change. I need to go on the treadmill every day, and focus on eating the right foods. I can still have a treat here and there, and I'm not going to go overboard with counting calories or anything, but rather be MINDFUL of what I'm putting into my body. If I'm hungry, I'll reach for some carrots and dip rather than chips. I tried this a few years ago and it was really working for me. Follow-through has always been an issue for me, and it's something I need to push for and work on. I need to focus on ONE DAY AT A TIME, as small goals are far more tangible for me than long-term ones, which tend to overwhelm me and make me give up altogether. I can do this. I need to in order to maintain my health, while I still have youth on my side. I'm roughly 315lbs at the moment, so by March 30, I intend to be 295lbs. Wish me luck! :)

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Yesterday was the 19th...you know what that means! :)

It's Wednesday, January 20th, which only means one thing: yesterday was the 19th! Yes, my one year and 10 month Aspieversary! Two months and it will be TWO YEARS since my diagnosis. Boy, does time fly!

What have I been doing in the autism community lately? I've submitted a story to NAMI and answered a few questions for NPR. A few months ago, I did an interview via Skype, telling a little bit about my experiences. I still continue to be active in my Facebook groups and My Autism Team. It's so regarding to connect to other autistics and parents alike.

What do I hope to achieve this year? I'd like to maybe do some more videos and submit more pieces of writing to The Mighty. I'd like to take things a step up and be a more active advocate. I want this to be a meaningful year.

As I think about all I've learned about myself and autism itself in the past almost two years, I reflect with a sense of enrichment. I've come a long way. I've met many, many wonderful people in the autism community. I hope this year brings many good things to come! :)