I found a t-shirt that said "I have Autism, my mum needs chocolate not advice" and I nearly, nearly bought it.

I had to take Matilda to the shops today. My helpful friend wasn't able to help today to no fault of her own, but I was counting on it to get the last of the Christmas shopping done (I work Sat 12 hours). So.... I took her. It was the first time to the shops in.... nearly a year for her. She was good!!! She had issues with listening and not running off, but in retrospect it was amazing compared to her last year when I had to leave the trolley behind constantly. I mean in other people's eyes, Matilda was behaving like a naughty 5 year old, but in my eyes she was absolutely amazing.

I went into 5 shops in the hour we were there!!!!

She's still sick and has a slight temp, so that may have helped us. She's got another urinary tract infection which sucks, but at least its not contagious, and the slight temp makes her behave as a "normal" child would.

This time of year sucks for the lack of routine, but I have bought Matilda a clock and a calender for her room to keep track of what is happening next for herself. I hope it helps her!!