I Use Emoticons Like Tone Tags

If you've interacted with me at all--or even just looked all about this website, you may have noticed my somewhat excessive use of classic emoticons. :)
I have always had an afinity for them--as well as their Japanese counterpart--kaomoji （かおもじ）(^－^)／♡.
Emoji never quite spark the same joy in me. 😕 I couldn't tell you why.

I just realized today though, that I've been using them like tone tags! Which makes sense, I am neurodivergent. I have ADHD--my therapist is also suggesting autism. I don't know how to feel about it sometimes. Either way I'm just me. And I like emoticons. :D They are cute little guys with feelings. :3

They can express so much! I've written up a list of how I use them personally, of course this isn't a rulebook! Just my feelings through the lens of emoticon.