robert7111a

This is a very interesting development and I am surprised, but pleased that the government have been overruled on this one. I am also pleased for Cait Reilly for making a stand. As somebody said on this forum earlier "Going to university makes somebody more rounded and mature". I did not go to university so perhaps I am not a "more rounded and mature person". So what do I know? I just wish people would make a stand and overrule the government on the health service who are bringing privatisation in by the back door (and forcing people I know out of work). I too am waiting for the grim reaper.

Hi there I was in almost exactly your position when I was your age but the difference back then was that AS was unheard of. I knew I was different but could not understand why I had no friends. I definately had social anxiety but had little or nothing in common with other kids my age. I never had any luck with girls and like you, thought I would remain single forever. I could not understant fickle or casual friendships/relationships. But years later, I have come to realise my problems in life were largely down to AS and have managed to overcome some of my difficulties. Joining this forum was a great help, plus observing and learning from people in my job. I wasn't intelligent enough to go to university but am lucky enough to be married. So things can get better for you although you may not see this yet. I certainly didn't see a bright future when I was in my early 20s.

Hi, as far as I'm aware, the new DSM-V will list ASD as an umbrella condition and do away with all the other conditions such as AS, PDD NOS etc

Yes, how many other conditions are described by our government as a "difficulty" so that they don't have to pay benefit etc. Oh and BTW (sorry for going OT), when is the DSM-V out? Can't wait to see how AS is described (I know it won't be a separate condition in its own right)

Hi Helen, sorry I don't live in Scotland...

I think Matzoball is on to something here...

Went out with my 35mm f1.4 today. Made a pleasant change to my 100mm that is usually taped to my body. Although film/slides etc have their place, digital is a good place to start for a beginner as you're not wasting money on developing dud shots on film. But yes, one should think carefully before each shot - not just the technicalities but what makes a good composition. Modern cameras have up to 150,000 shutter actuations and shutters can be replaced.

Hey Nims...welcome on board

I used to love the Dandy, Beano and Whizzer & Chips. I must confess to still picking up the Beano once a year...

ok here goes for trying to post something.... clicked on tree icon....how do I post a URL? They are in My Documents folder....

I still have my two OM1 and a knacked OM30 (I think the electrics have gone) plus a few OM lenses which I won't ever get rid of. I went digital about 5 years ago but you can't beat the latitude of film. I went to see an exhibition of the late Ansel Adams recently and just shows what can be done in black and white. Because it was a murky day photographing in the snow, I converted mine all to greyscale - not true black and white but my images looked much better than in colour. Oh and I've got to try and find a way to upload one to the forum tonight...clearly SmileyK has managed it.

I'm quiet. Nobody is really interested in my type of photography and therefore I don't talk about it. When I used to go out with work, I was the quiet awkward one

Sa Skimrande, how are you storing your DSLR lenses to get fungus....!? I thought this only occurred under very humid conditions...

Dunno about neurological.... Gross neurological function is normal, i.e. neurones/synapses etc fire as normal...but the control is probably different and out of sync perhaps. AS people certainly develop late and then catch up....

Hello Mooni Welcome aboard and hope you find a few cyberfriends here. I know exactly how you feel, I'm a bit older than you but have many of the issues that you describe (so I "do" understand). The question you need to ask yourself...will a diagnosis make any difference or help in any way? Would you achieve anything by having a formal diagnosis? I considered this for myself but decided against the idea. But you are young(er) and may have a different outlook on things. Read through the posts on this forum to get a flavour on things: there are many people on here that give great advice. Only then you can do what you feel is right

I grew up with wine on the table at mealtimes and so started drinking when my parents felt I was old enough. So I have a healthy attitude to drink. Yes I like a drink most days after a hard day's work to unwind etc but am most certainly not an alcoholic. I drive a lot too so would not even think about having a drink. I drink to relax and it kinda helps me in the right social situation

Hey Merry, that's fantastic! When I get time, I'll look her up. Obviously I'm out of area so hope some kind of distance learning perhaps... I still need to sit down and look at the other site you suggested...I started but got distracted...then never got the chance....

Good question Sa Skimrande. But I don't think there is an easy answer The medics would not class AS as a disability. They see a "disability" as somebody who is physically "dis - abled". Tell an AS person s)he is not disabled and expect a smack in the face. The condition is very dis-abling to some individuals. There isn't even the proper help for proper dis-abled people - i.e. those in wheelchairs who have to get about on public transport etc. AS is most certainly a "difficulty" - I think we could all agree on that one. But then...where does the term "difference" come into the equation...? (runs for cover now....)

I'm not a fan of beer (or lager) either. It makes me feel bloated. Call me a snob but I prefer wine and Jack (not in the same glass though!)

Gee whizz...I'll try later tonight if my internet connection works. It's down at present...

Can Rule 16 be updated too please with the names of the present mods. I know a list was published recently but this would tidy things up

Yes I think SmileyK has been able to post images so as and when any mods get the time, perhaps I could post one or two pics tonight...?

To any moderators.... Any easy way of doing this...?

I did indeedie...