Autism and My Breakfast of Champions

If there’s one thing I’m committed to, it’s routine — especially when it comes to breakfast. While most people experiment with avocado toast or smoothie bowls, I’ve been loyal to one breakfast and one breakfast only since I was a toddler: raw oatmeal. Yep, you read that right. Raw. Not cooked, not fancy, just good ol’ crunchy oats. Some people have comfort blankets; I have a comfort breakfast.

Now, I did try to switch things up during my Paleo CrossFit days. Because carbs were apparently the devil incarnate, I said goodbye to my trusty oatmeal for a while. It didn’t stick. Turns out, when your body is screaming for the familiar crunch and mild blandness of raw oats, no amount of paleo protein shakes can fill that void. So I came crawling back — oatmeal in hand, ready to face the day like a true breakfast champion.

But it’s not just food where I stick to what works. My music playlist? Oh, that’s been on repeat since high school. No kidding. It’s like a musical time capsule that’s somehow survived every questionable phase, hairstyle, and fashion trend I’ve ever had. And guess what? Apple Music recently informed me that I’m one of the top streamers in the world of Les Misérables — (Alain Vouvlil, Paris 1991). My household has weekly sing-alongs to the soundtrack, whether the neighbours like it or not.

I had this cassette tape.  Then I got the CD.  Then I started streaming it.  My son recently got the vinyl record and it felt like a full circle moment.

It’s funny how comfort and routine work for me. While some people crave variety, I crave the familiar—whether it’s the texture of raw oats or the soaring notes of “On My Own.” Autism means my brain thrives on predictability, and honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

So here’s to raw oatmeal, repeat playlists, and being the world’s unofficial Les Misérables superfan. If consistency is key, I’m basically holding the master key.