her intense hatred of loud noises, her ability to hear a ticking clock, her various facinations over the years , her inability to deal with sudden changes in her routine, and her dislike for strangers, strange situations and crowds

Could be me.Having read about Aspergers I realised I had about 9 of the 10 signs, as do many of my fellow artists.I do anything to avoid the above and make life very difficult for my wife. We hardly ever eat out (music) and I've decided I really don't want to cope with flying again (crowds, noise,). From my reading I would hazard that many creative people verge on Aspergers, and maybe it's that missing one criterion...communication difficulties,that saves them.I know I can do it on stage, but I can't party and I'll fight anyone for the Gunfighter seat..the one in the corner where nobody's behind you and you can see all that goes on. And strangely, most of my performing friends do the same. It's hell when we get together! I suppose if we can put on a persona that isn't really us we can cope, but in real life, when we take the persona off we have difficulties. I think this is why actors, musicians etc find their way of life such a relief from the everyday problems of being who they are.Maybe mild Aspergers is the leaven for their bread.