Something magical about ADHD and Autism (myself being diagnosed with both) is that some part of us stays way more childlike than your average person into our elder years. Something playful lingers in us way beyond its expected death from bills, disappointments, and tragedies. It can often be seen in the mischievous glimmer in our eyes, the fact that most people guess we're younger than we are, or in our uncontrolled glee at tiny things when no one is looking.

We have trouble focusing on what we need to sometimes, yes, but much of the time we are actually fixated on a beautiful little moment the world is missing from all its seriousness; light dancing on water, a new way to combine ingredients, or the fascinating book someone across the room is reading. We may not be watching the clock, as ADHDers are often late for everything, but we are watching. 

One of the glorious moments of childlike freedom for me was two weeks ago when I discovered an extremely beautiful treehouse made with

Today I spent an hour and a half in the bookstore looking at agendas. Not to buy one, since my planner is still good until January. But to start the process of looking at my options. It's good to have a four-month lead.

Choosing an agenda is an important decision. It's something I'm going to look at every day (dozens of times per day) for a year. It can shape my mood, can put me into a certain head-space, or can be filled with quotes or questions to contemplate each week.

Guest Author:
Jennifer Scott knows how difficult it can be to live with anxiety and depression. She has experienced both since she was in her teens. Today, she writes about the ups and downs of her mental illness on SpiritFinder.org. The blog serves as both a source of information for people with mental illness and a forum where those living with anxiety and depression can come together to discuss their experiences.

Bipolar disorder affects millions of people in the world., but many sufferers go un-diagnosed because of their age or because they have another mood or developmental disorder which masks it. It is especially difficult to diagnose in children, because young people who have not reached maturity don’t show the distinct emotional cycle that adults who have been diagnosed with the disorder do. This cycle can range from mania to anxiety to depression and can include bouts of rage or violence.

Much has been studied regarding the link between bipolar disorder and Asperger’s syndrome, which have very similar symptoms (one can also be diagnosed with both). Those diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD generally have problems with processing stimuli in social settings and can become obsessed with a particular topic, which they may be vocal about despite issues with language. People suffering from bipolar disorder may also become obsessed with a singular passion--such as art or music--but will often close themselves off from other people while they work on it. They will enter what is called a hypomania phase, which gives them a positive, energetic feeling while they are being creative. The difficult part is when that feeling begins to fade, and they are left with doubts about themselves and their passion. This can in turn lead to depression or violent episodes.