1985 – Page 4 – A Life in Words

Cold Weather & A ‘Stranger’ for Tea (3-9 June)

Published on June 29, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 3/6/85

Warmer today. Cool spell has gone – is warming up, now. Pooey! Julia went to doctor’s. She has 2 throat infections. Will not be going to skool 4 the rest of the week. [My sister was often sick, compared to me. Tonsillitis was her ‘specialty’!] Mum wants money refunded 4 julias camp. I got hiccups in science. Couldn’t get rid of them – really loud! Annoyed Fiona, too. At home, I felt sick thought I was coming down with Julia’s Flu. It passed after dinner. Praybon dropped Tina & asked Anna today. She hasn’t replied. No wonder Tina was in a BAD mood in Art…. I told Fi I was going to aerobics & I couldn’t go feeling sick. I just missed her when I rang to tell her → she’ll probably crack 2morrow (unless mim went)

Tuesday 4/6/85

Today it got cool & I forgot my jumper … so I froze. Sold about…5 brooches earned only $1.60 cos’ paid back some people (Lucy & Beka) to whom I owed money. Did hardly any HW & NO STUDY. I must really try to cos’ these exams are important (mum’s not going to Cooktown now cos’ of them!) Anna isn’t going with Praybon yet, but in German, next to tina, she only talked about him. I didn’t know wot to say to her. [One of Life’s difficult moments.] Wizzed thru’ maths 2day. Got a whole ch. almost finished. Tim is a distant person, now. I hardly ever see him & least of all, he appears to not even notice me. Oh woe is me!

Wednesday 5/6/85

A Life in Words — Personally, I don’t see the resemblance.
But I’ll take the compliment!

Cold today. There’s a cold front moving up the coast, (according to Fiona!) Forgot (almost) about speech, but got there early – went to mima’s She was on the phone to Brent (Steven B. was with him) mima ended up setting up Steven with me (describing me to him etc.) Brent said I looked like Madonna!! But, cos I was getting excitedly nervous, she reset him with Lucy who had the guts to talk to him on the ‘phone! I’m sorry, now. [Some evidence of the shyness which those who know me find hard to believe I posses. Having grown up with predominantly female energy around me, merely talking to boys was an unnerving experience.] Started to study tonight, just a bit. But I must do more. Will stay late tonight. Got a book out from book room. TT#3 Mr (Fuckhead) Carter made me go out of archery into “field” for PES cos’ no one would volunteer. I can’t jump or throw for nuts. Fuckin cunt. [Whoa, HEAVY language. I had no idea I knew that word back then, let alone used it.]

Thursday 6/6/85

Glad I didn’t forget a jumper today ! (Not that I would have [well you did on Tuesday, Silly-billy]) I had it on all day. IT WAS COLD!! & tonite, doing study, my fingers & toes, I swear, could have snapped off! [Good to know that my poor circulation isn’t just an old-age thing!] Mad rush to book room after skool to get History & 2 more science texts. Also had art folder & 2 art texts to carry. Thought my bag would break! No lunch-time. Late out of BP & had to go straight into english for viewing test. (which I’ve prob’ly failed) Man came 4 tea [Well, this is random. The only man I could imagine coming for tea, whom would not need naming, would have been mum’s partner Geoff. It’s bizarre to think some other bloke might’ve come over and I didn’t say for what reason, or at the very least, mention his name.] Have still 2 units to go in Science. Probly another late nite. I must do well, now. Is cool …. GOODY!!

Friday 7/6/85

I think I got a high [achievement] (at least) in science and a very high in BP!! Science was quite straight-forward. I think I might have made a few careless mistakes, too. (as well as in BP) My trial balance didn’t work out & I didn’t have time to correct it. Cold!! Freezing!! Is so windy!! Didn’t study at home this arvy – Just sorted out my books. Made Fimo badges.- 3 more – only just took them out – they’re burnt!! Just a bit off-colour. Forgot to put on deodourant today!! Dad was on local news [I wonder what for? I don’t recall, and:] (I didn’t see him – mima rang to tell me – also asked me to come up on Sunday to study) Watching movie about French Revolution. Magnificent costumes!!

Saturday 8/6/85

Today was a big waste of time. I s’pose I got a bit of work done (in art) but NO STUDY. Was cool – I ate one hell of a lot. (mint chocolate custard) Am watching movie. Is good. Listened to tapes today. Discovered I do like Duran Duran – well, their music, at least. But WHAM! rules!! My skin on my face has really dry areas – don’t know how to fix them up. Also, can’t stop squeezing pimp’s & blackheads on my nose & my eyebrows are too thin; I always pluck too much off them too.) Going to mima’s to study.

Sunday 9/6/85

I went to Jemima’s. They weren’t there. I went to Fi’s. They were having brekky. We tried to study, but couldn’t. Went to Jemima’s. I tried to study, but couldn’t. (Ended up only doing Maths – a bit.) Brent rang once. Went home ’bout ½hr after a prank call. Got some songs on Countdown. Went to Diane & Kerry’s for tea. Watched “Trading Places” with Eddie Murphy. FUNNNY!! Studied a bit of maths, too. Today mim told me that Steven doesn’t want to see Lucy, now. He thinks looks are 90% of a girl. [There’s a damn good reason NOT to be interested in a guy like him] Brent must said some terrible things about Lucy!! But I’m not even 2% good looks. [There you have it – another wonderful illustration of my level of self-love.]

The Crown Jewels, a Dead Dog & a Sick Sister (27 May-2 June)

Published on June 28, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 27/5/85

Hotter today. Sunny, too. Exactly the opposite weather to what we had yesterday. Gave brooches to Sarah, Justine & Lucy. Wore my own. At aerobics, Fi, mima, polly and Carla G. came. I moved away from mima so I didn’t flash, then they all kind of snobbed me off for the rest of the night. Legs are weak & wobbly. [Good, that means I was worked hard.] Got abit of HW done, just the essential stuff. Exams start Fri 7th June, stop 4 long weekend, then go on the 11th 12th & 13th. 10 days away! I have science & BP on Fri; English & History on Tues; Art, German & Maths on Wed & nothing on Thurs.

Tuesday 28/5/85

Went to Earlville this arvy to see the Imitations of the British Crown Jewels. Gorrd!! Must be realllllllllllllllllly expensive!!!! Also got Dolly for June (is alright). and had a look at jumpers. (men’s). Found cheap diamonté earrings, too! Today, in English, was lucky that I didn’t get my go for speech. I haven’t done it, but I’ve got it started!! Periods 6 & 1 have been swapped on day 4’s & 6’s now. Walking to PES, Tim came out of graphics. We walked past with Erica. He acknowledged her with a smile & wave – and – a pang of jealousy hit me!! It can’t be!! (But it is.) I must love him (or have a crush) He doesn’t even know that I exist.

Wednesday 29/5/85

Fiona lied to me today. I rang her up this morning. She said she wasn’t coming to skool because she had a sore throat & headaches. Bullshit. She just wagged it to be with Jemima again. (Like they did last year.) At speech she tried to deny it. Also she said she wouldn’t ride but this arvy I saw her on her bike (while I was on the bus). Today went skating. Was fun but shameful!! I can’t skate anymore!! Didn’t see Tim all day, but Lucy told me she thinks he’s a snob – I’m starting to see a new light. Mini Olympics today were stooopid!! Stopped (thankfully) cos’ of rain. We’re not going to Cooktown anymore now cos’ mum’s realised how Important my exams are (for my Jnr. Certficate) Early-ish nite. Hardly any HW

Thursday 30/5/85

Today went to oval at Big Lunch to watch Anna play netball. Or did she? No, too silly to play a game. [NO idea what that is supposed to mean.] Sally, Michelle I, Michelle T & Rachel were all there too. God they’re funny! Tim was on the oval, too. Justine likes him, too & so does Sally. I think it’s true wot Lucy said – he seems like a “snob” to me, too. (in a way.) Hot today. Fiona had a temperature, but acted fine. selling my FIMO badges now [and there’s the little entrepreneur again!] (As soon as I make an opening batch) 60c ea. Natalie P, & Beka & Sarah & her mum have already ordered!! Am so tired. Want to work solidly this weekend. Mite ride 2morrow. Will ring Fi now.

Friday 31/5/85

JULIA’S BIRTHDAY. mum woke me early & I got cranky, But recovered quickly. “I” (mum) gave her a jewellery stand like mine & a note pad. She also got a white top & around $80 in cash; A record & bracelet & material doilies (yuk) from Amanda – her friend – & a little bag from Melinda. Sally B. was shamed today; Anna told us how Tim found out Sally liked him!! Good hockey game today, too. Got 7 badges made 4 sale tonite. Went 4 a long walk, too. Melinda is sleeping. Went to town. Julia bought some clothes & pr. of shoes out of some of her money. Leonie & Amanda & Janelle never came ’round after all. Want to do lots of HW this weekend if possible.

Saturday 1/6/85

Today was a waste of time for me. I woke, lazed, made 1 more FIMO brooch, bored myself – lazed – ate – mucked around with broken chains (& incidentally, made 2 necklaces!!) Bathed. Watched Countdown when Fi & mim took me to the shop. Home again – Julia vomited. She’s been off all day. (Max is dead) He was run over on Thursday. Poordog. I loved him like my own. [I have no idea to whom ‘Max’ belonged. We certainly didn’t have a dog at that stage and I can’t remember any particular neighbours’ or friends’ pets by the name of Max.] Bill, Mandy & Heath came 4 tea around 6:15. Cameron did not come (to my relief & more so to Julia’s) [My sister had a crush on him, and was painfully shy] Fancy 3 course tea. Am tired. Trying to watch this movie. Is a Repeat. “the fiendish plot of Dr Fumanchu” Got no HW done today

Sunday 2/6/85

Got hardly any sleep last nite. Julia kept waking up & vomiting I lost count how many times she was up. Worst nite’s sleep I’d had in ages. Today was a terrible day. I felt depressed & bored & a little off-colour & just…. different. Did History & science HW. No more Fimo things made. Running late 2 nite. Is already 8:00 & I haven’t bathed. Julia didn’t vomit today – was just cold, then hot etc, had a headache, sore throat & pains & numbness. I Ate quite alot, too. Fiddled around. Washed my face thoroughly when got frustrated over pimples. Am tired. Skool – oh good! I actually can’t wait!! Early nite 4 me. Julia’s staying home

Plasticine & Perm, Part Two (20-26 May)

Published on June 27, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 20/5/85

Lotsa people liked it! (Or said they did, anyhow. I think Tina S. did cos’ she kept saying things all day & Lucy kept looking at me with a smile on her face.) Fi said it was different. Almost everyone got a ‘shock’ when they saw me! Missed out on heapsa BP HW. Is late. I’m tired. Went to aerobics. mim & pol weren’t there cos’ they had hair appointments. Fi had to ride home ‘n’ most of the streetlights in Freshy were off – noone knows why. Aerobics was good. Went to Annette [hairdresser at the local Freshwater Salon] – got another hair appointment. My hair’s top bits are straight again cos’ they’re sun bleached – (when they’re sun bleached they lose their elasticity so I’m gonna get the top re-permed. Is 9:45 Wanna sleep! Nite!!!

Tuesday 21/5/85

Was colder today – looks like we’re in for a cold winter this year! Boring day today. Today after PES, Rachel (D.) held Fi back (Fi told me this later) & said “why doesn’t Elissa become a model? She’s tall, got a good figure, nice hair & is good looking.” FLATTERY!! and to think I thought she didn’t like my haircut!! Made Fi some little things to give her during tomorrow till I give her her prezzy at speech (Not riding 2morrow) out of german plasticine – FIMO which is hardened in the oven (it is there rite now.) Am tired – my eyes are stinging. Gonna check on those plasticines.

Wednesday 22/5/85

FI’S BIRTHDAY!! Angela & Ms Stevenson’s too! She & angela & ms stevenson were skinted!! Angela & Fi in form talk & Mrs Stevenson in our BP class & Fi’s typing class. Those 10 things I made Fi, I hid in her belongings during the day & she got surprised!! My BP test I only got up to half way thru’ the balancing of the ledger a/c’s. Windy & cool at Beach. Went for a ‘quik dip’ and sat ’round till had to go for a walk. Bus came early with all the squash people on it, too. Our bus came late, but when it did come Tim was on it. I thought he liked me, but he doesn’t even know me. Pity. I think I really like him. Na probably not. At Dianne & Kerry’s mum’ll come soon – she’s at Geoff’s Nat. Trust meeting. Am tired. Gotta science test tommorrow.

Thursday 23/5/85

Didn’t learn 4 science, after all (not much) but thought it was pretty easy. Cool again, today. No other skirt but my PE, so my legs were bared to the cold. Boring today. Stayed in most of lunch hour doing art. Little rainy today. At home, rode to shop in a misty rain which (when going fast) stung your eyes. Bought m&m’s & a big packet of mixed lollies. & on way home, who should spring me, but skinner. Gave him a musk stick. Didn’t feel like doing HW, so did necessary stuff, then made an ‘apple’ badge out of that ‘FIMO’ stuff. AM gonna take it out now. A TEAM is finished. Nite Nite!!

Friday 24/5/85

Hate. Boring – Yuk. Wore little apple brooch or badge to skool – but gave it to Angela as a Birthday present. Will make others for myself. Bored today. Fiona was gloomy, made me feel tired & gloomy. Going to town tomorrow – me, Lucy, Justine & Fiona. Didn’t think Fi’d come (cos’ of mima) but she rang me tonite, saying she would. When I got my hair re-‘pazazzed’ mima & fiona came to shop ½ way through. Waited till it was finished, too. Anette didn’t blo-dry it, so it looked Revolting. Looks terrible when it’s wet. Mima & Fi tried to reassure me it was nice but I’ve the feeling they didn’t like it either. Late-ish nite.

Saturday 25/5/85

Time in town went too fast. Fiona bought black shoes & I bought black earrings & lip balm out of the $10 I waz s’posed 2 use on a shirt/jumper/jacket for winter. (But wot can you get out of 10$ these days?) [HA! What can you get for $10 THESE days?!] Saw mima, Fran & Erica in town. At home, moped around, then mima & fiona came around, Got out the FIMO. Beka came ’round. After FIMO cooked, pigged out from the shop, moped around, Beka left & we went to mima’s. She complained about how her outfit looked stupid (but didn’t). I raced home at 5:00 & had a shower. Just starting to put on make up when Lucy came. Beka picked us up at 7:00. Bluelight was boring. Back was good – legs were bad. Mark R. was there – I saw him, he saw me. Sean M. was there, but I didn’t see him (Justine thinks she did) Anthony & Jaqui were there too. Tart. I hate her. [I can’t get believe how much I used such strong emotive words. Then again, I probably was more ‘highly-charged’ in my youth. Thank god I’ve mellowed.]

Sunday 26/5/85

Today was a big waste. (of time) Woke around 8:30. Grumpy feeling. Lazed around – Did nothing all morning. Finally got out my history and english stuff. Wrote 1 line in English. It was too hard. Didn’t do any HW after all. Had soup for lunch & spent all arvy using FIMO & playing with make-up. After Countdown had shower, pizza for tea & watched TV. Is 8:30 now. Would like to go to bed. Haven’t done any HW. Have at least science, Hist & German that I should have done 4 tomorrow. Goodnight.

My Very First Perm (13-19 May)

Published on June 26, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 13/5/85

Good to see Tim again – I mean, he’s a hunk. Sometimes wonder ’bout Steven. Bluelight’s on 25th. Rang yesterday. Wouldn’t stop talking ’bout camp. “Putted” around all day & often began talking about it during conversations. It was a good camp. Am bugared. Just rushed my art cos’ this arvy, met mima & fiona when we were at the hairdressers for jules. Went to mima’s. Were going to go to aerobics. They did. I couldn’t cos of periods. Dad bought [bike] tyre back. Can ride Wednesday, now! (Tim rides 2 school) wore jumper all day. Was cold & rainy. Haven’t missed out on 2 much work….

Tuesday 14/5/85

Getting heavy in my periods. Was lucky today that I didn’t bleed on my skirt. Must take 1 pad to skool & change daily at BIG LUNCH. Giggly, stupid mood in double science. Was cool enough to wear jumper all day without sweating. Watched bit of the german camp concert on video at Big Lunch – can’t really hear anything. Are going to ride to skool tomorrow. My bike is better, now. I cleaned it this arvy, oiled and pumped it up. Am gonna try another tampon tomorrow – see if I can go swimming. Mum went to opening of ‘Korvette’ in the Boland Centre. Got me a black, white’n’red checked flannellette shirt. Is great!!

Wednesday 15/5/85

I’ve made an important discovery about myself. I think I like fiona more than Jemima. It explains why I always try to make Fi guilty when she talks about the things she & mime do 2gether. I wish it was me instead of Jemima. Actually did it! First go! Slipped the tampon ‘straight up’! Easy! [EASY!] Yes, we rode. Justine & Beka had their reasons why not. Lucky it didn’t rain 4 us! we beat our bus by 5 mins. Short periods thank god! At swimming, went to loos – I changed tampon (easily!!) & went swimming!! Cold windy, big waves. Fun!! a little boring out of water. Riding home, wasted a lot of time cos’ left skool late – (we were shamed) Don’t know why! [And so I don’t know why now, either.] (At speech, I was only one – went in 5:15 Late!) Lotsa HW 2nite

Thursday 16/5/85

Got away with it this arvy. Had a feeling I should’ve changed tampons at lunchtime but didn’t. On bus went a drip or 2 thru’ skirt – only Fi knew. Got off bus with jumper round my hips! Had bath when got home. Wasn’t sore today [am guessing I meant after riding to school] – tired cos watched movie last nite. Cool today, too, but rain has pretty well stopped. At Geoff’s National Trust dinner. Am tired. Just finished BP HW. 7 Journals, Ledger & trial balance – & after that, my trial balance didn’t work out!! Worked catch up during lunch hour today. I hate science & it (& Mr ‘It’ Howy) hate(s) me. GOOD!!! Poofter!! Am buggared. Can’t remember anything else.

Friday 17/5/85

I took today off and GOT MY HAIR PERMED!! Woke too tired to do exercises. Was going to go to skool, but trouble with BP HW got me in a bad mood, so stayed home. [I wouldn’t’ve thought mum would have allowed me to stay home because of a homework tantrum.] Mainly watched TV. Attempted HW (BP) but still couldn’t find how I lost $2 in the trial Balance. 1:00 – showered & by 1:30 was getting hair washed at the hairdressers. came as a shock, but I think I’m used to it now. Julia & mum think it’s nice – a ‘classic’ bobcut. At home, hurriedly cleaned my room when dad came – hastily dressed & packed. At Freshy Creek anthony laughed at my hair. Too bad! Freshie Hotel 4 drinks – then Roger’s for movies. Nellie & Amanda think my hair looks nice (esp. Roger) & all the other hash people. Movies were funny. Slept a bit thru’ one. Am tired now – is 2:00!! Nite!

Saturday 18/5/85

Woke quite early – lazed ’round ‘n’ watched TV, till went to town with Jackie, Jenny, Anthony & Julia. Went to Boland Centre – ‘Korvette’ GOOD VALUE!! I reckon – cheap!!! UNBELIEVEABLE!! Walked back to work at 12:00 (after got an ice cream & running into Toni & Angela who thought it looked ‘great’ & ‘made me appear about 20yrs old!’) [Evidence that looking older when you’re in your teens is more desirable than looking younger.] Worked $6 for dad only $4 to pay back.[My guess is this is the remainder of the debt for the lost $20 from the grocery shopping incident a couple of weeks earlier] Back at (flat/House) had lunch, lazed & did nuthing. Potted a plant. eaten alive by midges. Anna B. was at Korvette today too, but didn’t see (or perhaps recognise) me! Jacki away 4 nite. Bonds over for drinks. Jules & me in water bed till they leave. Then going to crash in lounge.

Sunday 19/5/85

Woke late today – good long sleep last nite. Had brekky of egg, sausages & muffins at 10, then packed and went to Cairns vs Trinity Hashes cricket match. Boring till after lunch when Trinity ‘Flash’ Hash Fielded. I did a bit, but sat out later with Jenny on field border. We lost, but everyone in our Hash knew the others cheated. At home, showed Jenny, dad & anthony Easter piccy’s ‘n’ they took them. Watched Countdown awards (Fuck-the-pus Duran won International Act) [there was a great Duran Duran-Wham! fan rivalry and I was, as earlier evinced, definitely a ‘Whammie!’] wonder wot people will say ’bout my hair 2morrow. Hope I don’t get teased!!

Séances, Black Forest Cakes & A Retainer Brace (6-12 May)

Published on June 25, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 6/5/85

I was bored today. I think this long weekend has gone so slow. It’s cos’ I bin bored – I’m gonna keep saying to fiona (after every weekend) “what did you do on the weekend?” & when she asks me wot I did, every time I will reply “-oh, u know, the usual boring weekend I always have.” – Today I watched TV, ate, an’ even made up a new exercise plan which I will start 2morrow. The Bests came out in the arvy. We went to the park (there’s a slippery slide there 2, now!) Watched TV, went back (they’d gone by then.) Watching TV now. Have had a bath & tea. Did a poo just a few minutes ago. [Too much information? Thanks to “the Coxen Bowel Fetish”] Feel better. Am determined 2 have an early nite 2nite

Tuesday 7/5/85

Only 2 days of skool this week!! Going to the orthodontist tomorrow to get a plate – my 2 front teeth have started to ‘space’ again. I need the plate to hold them permanently – but I don’t need the late permanently!! Felt like rubbing it into Fiona about my lonely, boring week ends 2day, but couldn’t. Was hot. Sleepy, too. Art is due Fri (assignment) so German Camp kids get to hand it in on Mon. Just as well cos’ I haven’t started!! Got clay today. Made last things tonite after HW. a brandy snap, 2 doughnuts and a cream’n’strawberry tart. Is another early nite 4 me 2 nite. Exercises this morning took alot less time!

Wednesday 8/5/85

Was busy today. Had to try and remember so much! German Camp health form, art money, swimming gear, art texts etc – god!! Had period 7 instead of period 1 (don’t know why) BP instead of History. Neither one any fun. Did paintings in art. My clay work’s drying slowly. Tim is a hunk! Mum picked us up after swimming (glorious day the stinger net’s gone!!) [For those who don’t know, some deadly marine stingers inhabit the coastal waters of North Queensland for many months of the year (approximately November-May) so swimming at beaches is only possible where the special stinger-net enclosures are based.] Got my ‘plate’ at orthodontist. It’s called a retainer brace – a bit fits in the roof of your mouth and wires (just one) goes round your smile! At speech mima said “Do you want to go out with Steven? He’s your height and quite spunky”. I changed the subject. Why? I just got nervous! (Jemima said (when I asked her) that she didn’t set Neville & me up. At another National Trust meeting. Have to wake early tomorrow to pack, etc. I’m gonna be soooo tired.

Thursday 9/5/85

Got everything done this morning! Even got a ‘white’ costume – I’ll be snow WHITE! Shame job at skool. I wore shorts (but that wasn’t the bad bit) Everyone musta thort we were crazy to go on a German Camp. [I don’t quite understand what’s SO ‘shameful’ about this. Unless it was considered ‘daggy’…but we were getting time off from school, so…?] But ….got Dorm. 2 again (5 of us + natalie & tania P.) Did activities like wotch slides (boring) & made paper beads (boring) While we did that, fiona’s group did skit & made Black ForestCake. Food was alright. Swam – was cold but very refreshing. Had disco 2 nite cos’ something wrong with Film. Was silly – no one danced. Have a feeling 2nite will be late.

Friday 10/5/85

Late nite got to sleep ’round 12:30. Others told ghost stories, so I blocked my ears & dozed. [Yes I was a scaredy-cat. And I still detest horror films. I don’t see the point of stressing myself with negative images & thoughts.] Fi & Beka on their way 2 loos ran into a snake. Wots worse, when we all called “snake” & “Mr Pudniks” [one of the teachers] no one came!! Were woken early for a walk. Long walk. Practised our concert items after brekky. We (Shane, Natalie, Tanya ‘n’ Justine ‘n’ me) had to perform Bremen Musicians on cards (I drew ’em of course.) After our skits, had free time. Swam – Had lunch then concert (u guessed it – ) on film! We won best act – got choccy! Made & ate our Black Forest Cake after another swim. Lucy, Fi & me talked about what we didn’t like about each other. After Bath’n’ tea, watched Film. Not so gut [german for ‘good’] as last year. Rushed ending. Probably ‘nother late nite 2 nite. The others want to hold a sayonce. [You guessed it – I meant séance] Wish some spunks came. Tim or someone!! !!

Saturday 11/5/85

Last nite had big joke session after unsuccessful sayonces. Then another sayonce (unsuccessful) then sleep. Too tired to look at watches. Coulda been after 12 // No walk this morning, didn’t swim 2day. This camp was good! Wade ‘courting’ Jenny (we think (cos’ we thort we overheard him torking to Ian) [not keen on this ‘cutesy’ phonetic spelling I seem to like falling into every so often. I DID know how to spell ‘talking’…] he thinks “she’s the only one who’d do anything” and “the rest are moles”.) After brekky, packed and rest of morning (Besides session of scrabble & pancake making (and eating) and lunch) was free time. Boys came to our dorm, cos’ Jenny left early. We must be 2nd best! Had a whip fight with sapling branches. Free time – till parents came. Shane is nice – still a fond friend I think! At home, (Julia bought me 3 popsicles to win a prize in this competition. We’re close to winning PANAM HOLIDAY to Disney & Hawaii, or a stereo getto blaster or computer. Then I unpacked, bathed and slept 3hrs! TIRED!! Bests are here 4 tea. I’m off 2 have some baked alaska! [I remember this! Mum’s one & only attempt at Baked Alaska. She did well, but I think the amount of work that went into it was enough to put her off trying to make it ever again.] Lateish nite I s’pose.

Sunday 12/5/85

Today had to do English Book Review talk & art assignment. Wasn’t in the mood, but struggled and got English talk done in between reading magazines, eating and lazing ’round. Had shower and we went to Dad’s new house Is nice! Pretty big too. Got ½ art assignment written – rough copy. Today was MUMS DAY gave mum only a home-made button bracelet but dad bought round a plant 4 us to give 2 her. Lateish nite

Recycled Carpet & a Metal-Free Mouth (29 April-5 May)

Published on June 24, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 29/4/85

Anna is going with Prabon. It happened at the Bluelight & Megan is too embarrassed to sit with Anna while she’s with him. Anna’s feeling guilty. Had science test not too bad. Also got maths test back 20/25 Best in maths so far this year! Got form for german camp – it’s next week. I know I want to go, & Justine is but I don’t know ’bout anyone else. Jodie T. had a bottle of perfume which she shot Fi & me with at B. lunch – smelt 4 rest of the day. At home, read Dolly (May, new one) until carpet ‘witch’ aunty Hilary sent up, came & mum began laying out 4 the lounge & dining room. [Because mum didn’t earn a great deal, much of our Simon Street house was built with secondhand materials…which these days would be considered VERY cool by the Greenies. Mum had procured all the french doors, the whole kitchen, and some of the external building materials…as well as, evidently, recycling my aunt’s old carpet. I’m so proud of my resourceful mother.] Didn’t do any HW. Man came 2 fix washing machine. Is 8:50. Mum’s starting to carpet her room, now. She won’t stop!!!! [That was SO my mum. She was a real worker, never stopped. If she did, it was lights out!]

Tuesday 30/4/85

Windy & cool. Is definitely coming into winter cos’ its starting to get dark at 6:30. Mr Van Slooten wasn’t here today, thank god. Got on bus (this morning) 2nd last & there were NO SEATS LEFT. Everyone was barred or taken. Julia eventually let me sit on the one she had barred 4 Philip & Brendan (so that they wouldn’t take Anna’s again) [Ah, Hierarchies in Everything. Bus seats?] Have only just realised that my English letters, due tomorrow, I have not even thought about. It is 8:35. Can I get 2 done? Stay tuned folks…..

Wednesday 1/5/85

A Life in Words Good day today. Happy!! (most of the time) Wore white sandshoes – yes, they were white! We cleaned them last night in power clean & they’re white! [‘Power Clean’ was – and still is – one of the best products my father sold. I’m not sure what its active ingredients are, but it DOES do a great job on most things! It’s probably one of his best known and oldest in his product range.] Got science test mark – 15½/25 OH! OH! In german, doing work on adjectives an example was Elissa hat ……… schwester. [In English: “Elissa has ______ sister”] and everyone had to add adjectives – told Jules some ‘o’ the words were nice, some bad. Are doing fantasy drawings in art – have to listen to music from “War of the Worlds” to help ideas. Wish we could do our own dreams, tho. Beach was good – overcast and cold, but warmed up. Went 4 that walk – everyone had to. (Puffed) only got ½ way. Speech was good, mima talked to me! about Bluelight, Brent, kissing Brent…….. At Geoff’s for National Trust Meeting – tired!!

Thursday 2/5/85

TODAY WAS THE DAY!! I GOT MY BRACES OFF [In my original diary, this text was handwritten over three lines. Excited much?] Looks so different (my teeth are too nice for my face!!) [Hmm, there’s a glaring hint about my degree of self-love] Feels funny, like I have wax over them – they’re so smooth! Penwarden, Jenny, Petra, & Marney & Noela didn’t notice at first!!! (Dunno how they could’ve missed it) Beka found out at school in maths today I wrote it on my maths book & she saw – she knew but didn’t tell. Big Yr9 fight today. Anna cried co’s anne & agnes hate her 4 spending so much time with Praybon so she told him she wouldn’t hang ’round. How sad. Paid money for German Camp. Robbo’s (- Peta had work) came for tea left 8:45. I did get my english letters done. Bed at 10:00.

Friday 3/5/85

Today – I liked this day very much. Woke early – teeth feel like I’ve still got braces, but are covered in wax. Hardly anyone noticed my teeth, without my help in making them notice!! Fiona knew (straight away, almost) that I was lying when I wrote that I had Larangitis. [There was never any ‘pulling of wool’ over her eyes.] Double religion was boring (but Tim’s in Anglican too) think he was watching me, sometimes. English did spelling & handed in. Finished painting plate. Must do 5 articles in clay over weekend. Cross Country Run I came 23rd in age group & 2nd in age group for Trinity. [Well this is a surprise to me… I didn’t think I could run.] Went with Deyanne. Lucy was 2 far behind 4 her & Fi & Beka were too far ahead of me. Got home quite early slept! (about 1hr) Yacht Club 4 drinks then take-away pizza at our house. Watching movie – weird. Lateish nite.

Saturday 4/5/85

Woke 7:00. Lazed till 7:30. After Brekky watched TV till ’bout 10:30 when started HW. After “Air waves” [a locally produced TV music video programme], finished maths & all HW, then got clay down from “attic”. Was hard – dismayed me. Won’t get my clay work done, now. Made some more bracelets – another bead one, and a safety pin one. Countdown taped most songs. Julia left for Catherine W’s party 5:30. Watched TV. Am watching movie, now “Tim”. I reckon the ‘movie season’ has started. Good movie last nite, 2nite & “Voyage of the Damned” 2morrow nite! Yesterday I thought mima would come ’round 2 c my teeth cos’ when she waved on her bus I pointed 2 my teeth & she got really excited. But she didn’t come. Shouldn’t have gotten my hopes up.

Sunday 5/5/85

Woke 6:00. Read ‘1984’ till about I don’t know when! But went to Raintrees Sunday Markets & (shame’n’shit!) guess who was there? The one & only Master R, himself. Tried to dodge him much as possible, but at the National Trust stand, I was under the impression he was trying to be seen. He’s grown one hell of a lot taller – brought up some old emotions oh! & of course Julia embarrassed me in front of him. SHAME!! Rest of the day, finished ‘1984’. Around 4:30, bathed (& shaved) ‘Nother late nite – at Dianne & Kerry’s. Watched countdown. Saw footloose on video.

Girlie Things & Noisy Birds (22-28 April)

Published on June 23, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 22/4/85

Couldn’t wake up. Ran a little late. At school, didn’t see Anthony or Jaqui. Must have conned a day off, from Jenny. Today was cool & fine. Science was boring – german was boring. History was boring. Art was orright. (Worked on clay at big lunch. Dunno wotta do.) Maths boring & English, too. Boring, plain day today. I hate Mondays, Jeez!! Late nite – 10:00 now. Didn’t have much HW at all. Bluelight 27th. Wot the shit’ll I wear? Hafta make something. Chris (from National Trust) did [fashion] Designing Course ‘n’ said the first year (½) u hafta make 2 articles per week. I CAN’T SEW!!!

Tuesday 23/4/85

Today got in a shit cos’ (I wanted to go swimming &) mum’s tampon wouldn’t fit me – it hurt. Went to school in a bad mood. Boring day. Science more work. English – sick of hearing Rebecca P’s posh voice and stupid reading in the play. Double maths more work. History dictation and German BORING. Jaqui & Anthony were here today. Anthony talked to me, but Jaqui didn’t. Anna sprung her smoking in loo’s. Another shit this arvy, when after mum bought smaller type of tampons, wouldn’t go in again. Later, however got in quite far. Still can’t get it, though. Early nite – eyes stinging when they are open. Lost a lot of moisture ‘cos of all the crying this arvy. [Womanhood – it’s not all it’s cracked up to be? I’m sure I can’t have been the only girl to have this kind of brilliant menstruation experience.]

Wednesday 24/4/85

Today was – oh I can’t describe it as usual. Ran very late cos’ tried again to fit a tampon in. VERY UNSUCCESSFUL. Forgot money but Justine saved the day 4 me! Science – quickly, no HW:- pes hot, fun – no HW:- German – late (10mins) picked on me, boring – no HW:- History – boring, long – no HW. Checked pad before getting on bus. Appear to have finished today’s period. Went swimming. Had triffic fun. Beka didn’t – had her periods, too. RAGE! Speech was simply – boring EVERYONE ‘sides Mrs McI. was tired (me too) Found out she’s been pregnant since ‘afore Xmas. Takeaway dins going to Geoff’s for National Trust meeting. Am tired. Is hot now.

Thursday 25/4/85 (Anzac Day)

Today I ‘guts’ed out. Ate ‘n’ ate. Umah! Woke early to next door’s galahs skwaking. Lazy – read through Dolly ‘workshops’ looking for sewing patterns. After cleaning my room & fussing around with materials & patterns (I gave up &) wrote out my ’84 diary again. Did that til Nana & Nancy (1 of her sisters) Had to show ’em my art & skool work. After they left ‘n’ Jules ‘n’ I mucked around, had a bath & am wotchin’ TV! Early nite I hope. ‘S’morning thort it was Sat & in the arvy & nite, kept thinkin’ it was Sun – BIG mistake!!!! [Another Anzac Day goes unacknowledged. While transcribing, I had no idea at first that this day was even a public holiday, let alone for what reason.]

Friday 26/4/85

Today was (oh! I’m sick of starting off like this.) I didn’t like today. Cool wind so didn’t get too hot during hockey. I failed my maths test on surds, I’m sure. Bought my leather shoes today & didn’t even have science in the lab! Fiona bought my tin of Kool Fruits. Ended up eating them all today. Also got another english assignment. Just a letter. Want to get it done this weekend. BLUELIGHT tomorrow night! Petra F is going! Thought she wasn’t allowed ’till she was 16! Late nite wotched ½ of 1984 Logies & Dave Allen

Saturday 27/4/85

Fucking birds next door screeched & squawked all fucking morning, waking me up at 6:30 after going to sleep only 7 hours earlier. I wanted to sleep in. Went out this morning. Bought lace & tartan ribbon. Looked at materials, too. Came home & watched TV & lazed about all arvy. Rang mima (didn’t want to ring Mr D – (grumpy-bum)) Got ready 4 Bluelight. Couldn’t use blowdryer – exploded. The cord just ‘teared’ or ‘broke’ or ‘split’ Am now soooo nervous. [I often felt nervous prior to certain social events and indeed, still can.] Oh!! They’re here!!

Was terrfiic!! (Saw Sean 2 times briefly) Neville only stuck ’round ’bout an hour. I Didn’t sit down once – sore back. I think now that mima set Neville & me up in the beginning. Mainly danced with Fi, Beka, Justine & Greg K. John C was there, too.

Sunday 28/4/85

Slept in to 8:30, cos got to bed 12:30. Today was very lazy day. Woke up to birds squawking at 6.00 or so, but managed to sleep in longer. Read old Dollys, did depilatories (creamed off the hair under my arms, & bikini line) Did most of my HW. When that was complete, showered’n’shaved etc, and went to Clarke’s for drinks. Took science books & english Didn’t do anything, tho. Watched TV – countdown’n’muppets left around 7:20. Early-ish night 2nite. I hope It’s about 8:45 now. I must learn for my science test tomorrow

Australian History, British Comedy & Breakdancing (15-21 April)

Published on June 22, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 15/4/85

First day back was long and boring. Fiona (& Tim) has a hair cut. Looks good (fiona’s I mean – I’ll have to get used to Tim’s. However, I don’t think I like him much anymore. Thinking about Sean again – dreamt about him last night!) Science was boring. Physics, I hate. [This attitude has changed, for sure.] English – Mr VS gave us till Wed to hand in extra work (got the book out at Big lunch) Maths was complicating. Doing surds again. HATE IT. History – started on WWI. German – more work & ‘picking’ Had to go to movie. National Trust thingo for Heritage Week. Saw 1st version of “The term of his natural life”, made 1927. Silent movie. Was alright.

Tuesday 16/4/85

Last night after movie, Beverly Hills Cop was screening. While tidying up, listened to it – sounds funny! Tonight was a late one. Rushed to get essay done & (unsuccessfully) got upset in the progress. Didn’t get it quite finished. Have part 4 to do & to write the essay out neatly! Science was boring!! PES was tiring, hot but fun. German got HW – picked on us again. History started WWI – dictation!! Art – watched video in library. BP – catchup lesson. While talking to Anna today, Matthew (that Yr 9 boy whose quite popular) told me (cos’ he was there last night) that his grandfather was the boy in the movie who was crying before jumping off the cliff.

Wednesday 17/4/85

Slept with mum last night. Needed comforting cos’ so upset about stupid essay questions. This morning was rushed. Got recreation (swimming at the beach) Was fun!! S’posed to do lifesaving etc, but Howy (our guide) says we can just laze ’round sunbake etc! [I wonder how this attitude would be received today? Blasé about sun care?] Shorter periods. Lucy caught bus – thought we had speech – we walked to mima’s. All went to shop – ate redskins – at home ready to go to another, smaller film night. Late nite, boring. Another spider

Thursday 18/4/85

Today was boring. Day 5 – had science; funny experiment, BP – new work. Actually got a break during double periods! (Never have, before with BP!) German – Westerweld was away!! Had big, fat relief teacher. Heapsa work – made a bracelet out of used staples!! Maths kinda understand & Eng – no essays left!! NO HW YIPPEE!! Don’t think I love Sean anymore. Nor Tim (not that I ever did.) I still they’re both hunks, but I don’t get too fidgety near Tim anymore. ‘Sarvy beat mum home. Nana came ’round. Went to Nin’s for tea – home early. Early-ish nite for once (last nite we all slept – very restlessly – in mum’s bed cos’ we made that gigantic spider sick ‘n’ Jules’n’I were scared it would drop on us in tha nite.

Friday 19/4/85

Today did nothing. Bag was very empty & light. No History HW, no art HW, learn for little maths test, no english HW, no pes HW, little BP ledger HW. Melissa Y’s last day at Smithfield today. Is going to live in Nambour. Got her hair permed. Looks terrific – s’posed to go to movies tonite, but didn’t. Went to Ben B’s Bday party at Balaclava Hotel. After, had cake at their house.

Saturday 20/4/85

Later nite last nite. Sleep around 12:30. Woke to find mum away. Was at Rusty’s Bazaar. Got muchHW done as possible – nearly all of it. Cleaned chest of drawers when dad came. Frantically packed in a silly costume for Roger’s party – the theme was “Faulty Towers & Monty Python”. Went as Sybil – all jewelled ‘n’ dressed up. Was orright. Home at 2:30.AM bugared. Watched 3½ videos – 2 dad rented “Breakdance” & “Beat Street” [we really are in the thick of the breakdancing era here] & Roger’s “Various Faulty Towers” & ½ of “The Meaning of Life”. At work all day beforehand.

Sunday 21/4/85

Woke early (damn it) Sat down and did Last of German HW – then learnt for maths. By that time it was 1:00. Anthony & Jaqui are coming tonight. that meant that we had to go home to mum at 1:00 (cos’ it’d be too hard 2 fit 4 kids in the flat.) They are starting Smithfield High tomorrow. Got home – mum’s car is pranged – some bloke backed into the left front side. Not too bad – but the bloke has to pay 4 it. At home, had to dress 4 BBQ at Geoff’s. Was alright. Yummy cheesecakes. Am tired. Is 9:45

Holiday Homework Procrastination (8-14 April)

Published on June 21, 2013 by Elissa Coxen2 Comments

Monday 8/4/85 (Easter Monday)

Today. Woke quite late. Ate last of my egg. After brekky had a ‘dip’, and proceeded to pack up. Finished at 12. Had our last swim and left, on the right track! Took us 4hrs to get back to the Walsh River. At 7:00, we were around Mareeba. Got home about 8:00. Mum told us what she did – I think she had a lonely weekend. Our whole trip saw about 20 kangas & wallabies, 2 dingoes, 2 ibis(es), a brolga, “major mitchell” cockatoos, 3 freshy crocs, a ded goanna. It was hot inland. I ended up only seeing Karen & Co on fri. Didn’t see Wade S. & Co or any one else. Was truly fabulous. I’m tired Goo’ nite.

Tuesday 9/4/85

Today was a big waste of time. Woke up tired. Ate, drank, watched TV, lay down, read “Dolly”s, mucked around with make-up and generally bored myself. Am sooo tired it’s not funny. Felt sick; headache. Am sure I’ll get the usual ‘wog’ after Easter like I do every year. Chocolate is my big obsession, but too much always makes me ill. Rained on & off. Felt like ringing fiona – but didn’t. Rang 4AM. [It would seem I was not mistaken the last time I mentioned commented on this (thinking I must have noted the wrong radio station in my diary). I cannot fathom why the Atherton Tableland radio station would be the one you would call for a Bluelight Disco in Cairns City. Why not 4CA?] Next Bluelight 19th April – but – that’s a Friday! (Wonder why?) Anyway I’m tired so nite, nite.

Wednesday 10/4/85

Boring day. Woke around 7:00 with a headache. Went to work while mum went to some appointments etc, then she picked us up & after lunch, Jules & I finally got our BACKPACKS. Except that Julia didn’t have to pay for hers. After some ooey, gooey food & look in the op-shops (unsuccessfully) went home and lazed about all arvy. Mainly read ’84 Summer Special Dolly. Early night. Julia’s at Melinda S’s surprise party. Is sleeping there. Wot am I going to wear to the Bluelight not this Friday but the next? I have to have something….

Thursday 11/4/85

Today was cool again. Mum went to work & I set out to do my English Essays but didn’t do a thing. Drew & watched TV most of the day, Julia came home about 11:30. Mucked around. Ate a lot. Mum came home for lunch. Felt sick after chocolate milk. Late arvy, mum & Julia went to Hayles, Fairweathers & McKenzies (Bill & Mandy) about tickets to the original production of “For the Term of His Natural Life”. Julie H came round. We talked. She knows (it’s obvious) (to her) that Jemima & Fiona are ‘neglecting’ me. She saw them, Polly, Liam & Cameron (Pol’s boyfriend) in town today. Invited me to town – might just go!

Friday 12/4/85

Woke up determined to get my essays done. Got out my gear, but didn’t even make a start. Watched TV while mum was at work. Julie H. came around. Talked and agreed to go to town in the arvy. After lunch, mum dropped me at Julies. After her completing getting ready, got to bus stop at 1:30. Talked 2:00 talked 2:30 The bus came at 2:40. We had just over an hour in town. Got some beads. Am going to make a bracelet like Jemima made fiona. (They were in town again today. Saw another movie. We didn’t see them. Late-ish nite. Went to nana’s 4 tea

Saturday 13/4/85

Julia stayed at Petra’s last night. I had 2 go to Geoff’s with mum. Watched movie there. Began animal farm essay. Began it again & again. Watched TV – Dad came at 1:30. At Dad’s drew, mucked about. Jenny & Anthony were there. Got ready for Leanne’s & Tony’s engagement after Countdown. Designed dad’s invitation for customers to new roof-wetting. Wrapped the engagement present. The party was boring. We stayed away from the crowd at beginning. Had a swim (Jules & me) then showered. Played cards. Mucked about. Anthony fell off the bonnett of a car. Big egg on his 4head.

Sunday 14/4/85

Got 6hrs sleep last night. Made everyone tea. Once awake, all went to work to photocopy those invitations then went to Far Nor AG where dad painted out his old sign. After that, went to Leanne’s to pick up Julia’s togs. Stayed a while. Anthony cracked a darkie, and on the way home (when we stopped to satisfy our sweet teeth) Jenny & Dad blew him up. At flat things were tense. Walked on the beach Anthony stayed behind. Watched Countdown. Had sausages for tea. Late-ish nite. Haf to write out essay yet. Couldn’t get other 1 done cos’ didn’t have my correct reading book to use for reference.

Easter at Elisabeth Gorge (1-7 April)

Published on June 20, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 1/4/85

Maths was hard. Didn’t have hardly any time to learnt before skool – no one (I don’t think) got it finished in time. It was hard. In PES, took notes cos’ of the weather. Science – marking stray HW. History – understand the last part now. Almost finished it 2nite. BP – new topic. Practical, too. English – started Animal Farm essay. Continuing Yentl essay. (Hurry, Liss!) Art – made a vanilla/custard slice looks nuthin’ like it. Rainy today again. Tim – I get nervous and self conscious when he’s near. Never know just how to stand or sit or what to do with my hands. I’ve tried to control it but I can’t. Late nite.

Tuesday 2/4/85

Really worried today that I wouldn’t get my work done. I have my PES to complete tomorrow, 3 assignments due Thurs & my art clay work. Got my History & 1 English assignment done & worked out my art. PES I dunno – & Animal Farm (the otha’ english assign.) tomorrow at school & prehaps after. Today was cool. Didn’t take me jumper. DAY 5 – Science ›blech‹ BP ›blech‹ -er! German ›blech‹ -est! Maths Mr Way was absent. Maths puzzles & english worked to my capacity. ‘S’arvy finished Hist. Dunno if I’ll wear shorts on our Free Dress Day on Thurs, now.

Wednesday 3/4/85

Today was terrible. Couldn’t sleep last night – mozzies buzzing in my ears. When I did sleep my whole body was under the sheet. History is done! Double art – did theory instead of clay work will tomorrow, too. Have to work in lunch time. Maths – got test mark back Below class average. 17½/30. Class AV 18.5/30. [This would no doubt have caused Perfectionist Me undue stress for a few hours.] English – Mr V.S said we only have to hand in one english assignment whichever one we want. Great! Lunchtime – did PES testing – skint! In PES played hockey. fun but hot. BP got all work done in class, so no HW 4 Hol’s. Watching movie – “Xanadu”! Dunno wot ta wear 2morrow.

Thursday 4/4/85

I thought Tim’s family would be comfortable financially cos’ he wears Tab shorts to school but today he wore daggy black jeans like Shane S. used to wear…. Still I don’t look at his clothes – just his spunky face. Wore my red’n’white Sportsgirl shirt, sweatshirt & sanshoes. Took my Sportsgirl bag. All of us were allowed in the science lab, today (only 2 boys had correct leathers on.) German had competitions. Natalie P. won. Art, watched boring video. Didn’t get clay done. Eng. & Hist finished up essays’n’mucked around. Maths – won an egg! packed this arvy. Haircut just a trim. Saving up for perm! [OMG, yes. It happened a number of times in my youth…] Lateish nite

Friday 5/4/85 (Good Friday)

Woke 5:30 today. Didn’t do exercises. Finished packing and went to work. When eski was packed at work, we came home cos’ we forgot somethings then left on our 3hr journey. Tried to sleep while travelling. Sick tablet helped me stay awake. [We often took travel sickness tablets as a precaution. My sister had – and still has – a weak stomach for travelling. She was invariably always the one we stopped for.] Got to Chillagoe 11-11:30. Drove to the Walsh River, saw Karen M & the Holletts ‘n’ everyone. Didn’t see the Strikes. Was too crowded there. Drove on, looking for Elisabeth Gorge. All those who gave us instructs were wrong. Finally went to the “Bellvue” Station Homestead. A real ‘bloody’ Aussie gave us directions. And we cross-countried all over the property, 4wd country alright!! Had to look for certain things e.g.: windmills, dams etc. Like a treasure hunt. When we finally made it (6:30) was already people here! Still, camped a bit away. River’s alriiiight. No trees where we camped. Don’t really like it. Feel homesick already. Jules bedded early. The rest of us went down for a bath/swim. Bed at 9:30

Saturday 6/5/85

Woke quite early 6:30. After brekky cleaned up & set things up totally. Then went for a dip. All of us got Aussie [my stepmother-to-be’s German Shepherd] in & she began enjoying the water. Then went firewood hunting. Got heaps, but dad wanted this giant log – trying to get it, we staked it. The back right wheel punctured BADLY. After changing it & getting back, we all drifted down to the creek & spent most of the arvy in it. Everyone else but me got burnt badly – or visibly bad. Withered the arvy away. After tea I had a half’n’half enamel mug of range & reisling. Anthony the dickhead [stepbro-to-be] was trying to convince me I was drunk. Dad was the only 1 (I think) who knew I wasn’t. Late nite.

Sunday 7/5/85 (Easter Day)

Dad came in at 7:00 singing “Peter Cottontail”. [He pretty much rolled this one out every Easter, since his first performance on a camping trip a few years earlier had delighted all of us kids. You know the way Dad’s do, once they think they’ve hit a ‘winning formula’.] Julia ended up eating all her eggs today. [That was usually MY trick] Hot X Buns for brekky. Lazy, swim about morning. Went walking up the gorge & found a beeauutiful hole. All swam & fossicked until around 1:30 – 2:00. After lunch, lazed ’round – swimming, photographing, playing games. After the last swim/bath, had tea and sat by fire. Am tired. Talked & quizzed each other. I had more wine 2 nite & didn’t get ‘pithed’. Am going to sleep out 2 nite – hope it’s cold.