Bronze Gateway: Week 9 Update! 🌟

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​It’s Sunday, which means it is time to check in and see how I’m progressing with my Mencap Gateway Bronze Award. Week 9 has been all about movement, reflection, and staying organized.

​Here is a look at what I’ve been up to this week:

​1. Volunteering: Walk for Autism 👟

​I’m currently in the planning stages for the Walk for Autism. I plan on joining a walk with friends from No6 one stop shop in late April as well as my virtual walks. It’s exciting to see the logistics coming together!


​2. Fitness: Nature Walk 🌿

​There is nothing like a bit of fresh air to clear the head. My fitness focus this week was more nature walking to get those steps in. Spring has sprung! 


​3. Hobby: The Digital Parish & Daily Office 📖

​My hobby continues to be a source of quiet reflection. I have been practicing daily prayer using the Northumbria Office.

  • ​Activity: I’ve been documenting my reflections right here in relation to my faith connecting my digital life with my spiritual practice.

​4. Personal Challenge: Complete! ✅

  • ​Status: Submitted. It feels great to have this milestone ticked off the list.

​5. Lifestyle: Sensory, Advocacy & Routine 🎨

​This category covers the "behind the scenes" work of managing daily life and standing up for what I need.

  • ​Sensory Regulation: I’ve been using my Squiggle Society and other art supplies, fidgets, and planned sensory snacks to stay regulated and focused.
  • ​Other/Advocacy: I have signed up for a Prescribe Nature course that starts soon and booked our family an Autistic Friendly holiday for Easter break. 
  • ​Routine: My Finch app is still my go-to buddy for making sure my daily routines actually happen.

​Weekly Reflection:

Week 8 has felt very balanced. Between the physical activity of the walks and the mental work of advocacy and prayer, I’m feeling tired in life in general right now, but happy of the steady progress toward my Bronze Award.

A Highland Theological College graduate and non-conformist follower of Jesus living at the crossroads of neurodiversity and faith. Writing on the wild grace of the Gospel.

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