In the post about Martin’s disastrous Disney morning, I also mentioned buying him a black coffee, hoping it would help.

In my effort to present an honest picture on this blog, I keep my readers abreast of my application for Autism Parent of the Year. Remember when I started my kid on glasses and Heilkunst the same day, then couldn’t figure out which made him puke? Or when I denied him the chance to connect with a boy at church? How about when I vacationed in Jerusalem while Martin pined and threw tantrums at home? Way to go, me!

Let’s add coffee to the list. Months ago, Martin asked to sample an iced coffee I was drinking. I drink my coffee black: There wasn’t any soy milk or commercial almond milk or carrageenan or whatnot to worry about, so I let Martin try a sip. I thought he would hate the taste. Instead, a practice began, wherein Martin drank my coffee. More and more coffee each time, until finally I was buying him his own black iced coffees and giving him hot coffee at home.

My reasoning? Brewed coffee is GAPS-legal, and the stimulant effect seemed to do Martin well. He seemed more focused. No harm done, right?

Not so much, is MAPS doctor informed me when I mentioned the coffee habit (and convinced her to believe me). A stimulant isn’t really so good for Martin, and I should stop with the coffee, ASAP.

Which was my honest intention, until things ran amuck at Disney. Coffee! I told my brother Rudy. Grab some coffee! It helps!

Except when it doesn’t.