I'm sitting at my desk, being unproductive (except that I have gained tremendous value from reading your blog), because I have to be in a particular place and ready to do duty at 2 o'clock, and I can't think of a suitable way to use the intervening time ...

Another great post, which I could totally relate to. Thanks so much for quoting me!

I, too, have had my share of anxiety dreams about being lost or late—probably because I have had plenty of upsetting real-life experiences of the same. A lot of the dreams harken back to college experiences because that was a really tough time for me, trying to figure out how to organize my own life for the first time. I remember how confused I used to get, trying to find my classes in one particular building. I would frequently get turned around, completely disoriented sometimes, even after attending classes there for years!

This kind of thing is still a problem for me. Having moved to a new city a couple months ago, I have still missed the exit I take to get home from work more times than I’ve found it. Losing track of time is a lesser problem for me now that I’m older. Multiple alarms and posted schedules help. For getting places on time, I over-prepare (well, it would be over-preparation for most people). My advice for my fellow Aspies is to post maps as well as schedules in your home, definitely have more than one watch, put a clock in every room, and keep a good local map in your car.

My family tends to see the humor in my time malaise, I had a mentor that introduced me to a calendar/planner. She said this way I could write down where I need to be and the time; hint- I just have to write it on the right day. I have to color code each event I still find it overwhelming at times. I have shown up with the right child or the wrong child on the wrong day or the right day for appt. Sometimes the wrong appt... I have the dreams of missing the appointments. I don't care for those much. I get so anxious over new places and new appts. I get all worked up and I find I have to look at my calendar. I think my husband finds me comical and is annoyed at the same. Myself and my son have Aspergers and not sure that husband knows what to do with us. The doctor said that one of our other son’s has PDD-NOS and if you ask me I think he is right there beside us. Your post are a reassurance to me.. lost in time Shann

As always your stories are laden with beauty, Great work! Sincerely,David

I've actually had the schedule thing happen to me in high school over 2 months into the year. I kept my schedule with me in my binder, but for some reason could not find it. I had lost my schedule and couldn't remember where I needed to be next. In a panic I asked my friend to help me find it, they gave me a funny look and said, "you don't know what class you have next?". She helped me look, but we couldn't find it. So now in a panic and embarrassed I had to go to the office and ask for another schedule. Where they asked me the same question my friend did. It makes me anxious just thinking about it.
Also, I'm constantly afraid that I'm going to be late for everything. Even with a clock in front of me.