1986 – Page 3 – A Life in Words

A Failed Exam, a Grease Preview & THE Photo Again (11-17 August)

Published on August 11, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 11/8/86

Today was a better day than I thought it would be. See, Mark was away… but in double chemistry (everyone else, it seems, was too – on the musical camp) Mr Lavers was away so I wrote a 12 page letter to Lucy all about Mark!! Then, thru triple art & little lunch, we watched a video – had to do sketches from it. But BIG LUNCH was the BEST PART!! We went in the dark room and soon Mr Short came. He developed (at my request) 2 photos of Mark & me from the dance!!!! The photography was excellent (not bad of me – excellent of Mark, tho!! Except looks as if he is holding his breath & struggling to keep from smiling) [Apparently he was partway through an exhalation, lips pursed and cheeks inflated…kinda like a puffer fish?! Sorry to disappoint: I felt obliged to edit him out of the photo out of respect for his privacy.] I cannot stop looking at it!! I’m really happy!! So now those who know of it are, Sandie, Moni, Donna, Sharon, Mima fi Polly & Judy & of course, Mr Short (Mark & his friends would, too, but they won’t see it!!!) Went to speech this arvy for final tips on work etc. Is 9:20. Gonna stare at the photo so[me] more. [Now that sounds ‘creepy’…]

Tuesday 12/8/86

My speech exam was… average. Probably a “B”, I think. My reading was good, my poem was good, my talk was stuffed and my news report was fair. We had to wait ages (she was running at least 40 minutes behind!!) Mima came round. We spent the morning typing out our work and practising. After lunch we left, riding on our bikes. Got there and changed in the loos [‘loos’ are toilets/bathrooms for those who aren’t familiar with this Australian slang]. Then worked up our nerves for ages. After, we laughed about it – the conversations we’d had were bloody hilarious!! Rode to sly cones [an ice creamery] (did not pass the school) then into town. Rode home – stopped at the Aeroglen park & laughed & sang. Rode on home slowly. Hot day today – couldn’t believe it!!! It’s 8:45 – earlyish night. Exams are over!! CAN’T WAIT for school tomorrow!! See Mark in the flesh. I am still drooling over the photos!! Julia took one to school [she was still attending Smithfield High at this stage]. Most thought he was O.K. Amanda said YUK. 2 girls she barely knew said yum & about me: is that your sister? God she’s beautiful, so pretty etc Can you believe it? [Perhaps you weren’t as plain as you thought, Liss?]

Wednesday 13/8/86

Ha! I knew something’d go wrong today. It was for the best, though. (I suppose). I did take the photo to show Monique (Mark was away yesterday too; not at baseball; he’s in the play – a dancer (was on the camp) Monique said he’s good, too!) Anyway she said this girl (Joannah C’s cousin) in Yr 9 was flirting with him. That made me depressed. But mima told him about the photo. He badly wanted to see it. I said no..way. Cameron asked Sharon She said no, then he actually said to me. I said no. But before Fi & I left for the Trobuk Pools, I gave it to mime & said don’t let anyone else see it. Boring at the Pools. Wanted to rush back & see Mark (why, god knows) Tonight on the phone, mima said Steven, Brent, Cameron & Megan also saw it. They all said it was a good photo. Mark didn’t say much (about me – not that she told me) but he asked her if I still liked him. Mima said, I’m not going to say anything. He is rather worried or is he? Speech on my own. It’s 10:30

Thursday 14/8/86

I think I’ve stuffed my chances now. I was going to make him ‘grovel’ or at least, worry a bit about whether I liked him or not… I don’t know what’ll happen now. In 6th period, biology, I put across the feeling of disappointment, depression cos I thought he was avoiding me. Anyway at the end, before we all left the room, Chris K was talking about Sandie and I said (a bit too loud I think) “So what’s it like to be in love?” If Mark heard that he probably would’ve assumed I didn’t like him. Tricia, in 7th p. art., was crying too.. what about? I think it was most likely about Mark cos after school, he & her sat on opposite bike racks and at one stage, he walked away to Terry & Raymond etc. I watched him talking. What about? Then he came back. Is it all over between them? I hope Cameron says something to me in Chem tomorrow 10:05. Went late night tonight. Then to see mum’s cousin up from Sydney. His 3 kids are nice the 7 yr old boy isn’t. Failed Chemistry exam & mima is having so much trouble with Brent.

Friday 15/8/86

*Cameron said nothing. In fact, he’s a big snob now, won’t even sit next to me, let alone talk to me. I failed chem 13/30, but the great thing is I only failed by 2 marks! [This is a radically different reaction to that I would have had only a year earlier. Exam failure would have gutted me. At least at this point I have found the positive in a negative!] Mark is avoiding me… I’m sure. Today, we walked to the City Place; Grease was being acted out as a “preview”. was great! (Went in lunchtime) got back ½ way thru’ period 6. No one in art noticed I was late. Fi also told me today how Mark & Tricia kiss goodbye in the “arvies”. I really wanted to see them do it [really? are you a masochist?] but we were held up after by talking etc. By the time we got there, Tricia’s bus was there. AND Mark was talking to Nicole C; yes, the same one who was flirting with him on the camp. BITCH. Anyway, At home I rang Lucy all arvy & got ready. Finally got on to Jane [her sister] said she’d be in on the 8:30 plane. POOP!! Fi came around 6:45→ we walked round town. picked up mima & she changed then we spent all the time at Licks cafe [an ice creamery] in Mellick Centre where Jay works. Didn’t go to pancake house at all. Met Justine & Beka. Stayed there till about 9:30… went walking… finally found Lucy..

Saturday 16/8/86

Last nite, we caught a taxi home. Justine, Fi & I stayed at mima’s. Watched View to a Kill on video. Bed at 1:15 – woke 7:15 this morning. After small brekky, Justine & I walked to my place I changed and mima rode in …we rode together into town – mima to get her hair permed – me to work – (saw Heath. & Marge.) Justine’s dad took her home. Worked 4hrs 15 mins. Mima’s hair looks absolutely terrificly fantastic!! (Giles & Andrew D. were working – I immediately thought of what Mark said on the phone that night “we talked about you at Mackay”) We rode, picked Fi up from the newsagency & went to mima’s (mum wasn’t home) Watched music videos and bombed out – rested. Went home around 5:15. Petra’s staying over. Talking a lot about Mark… mima said he also thought I was taller than him she said “as if she’d crouch down for a photo!” Also, she told me exactly what he said that day (I can’t remember, but it was bad. He really thinks I hate him. I’m so depressed – so depressed that I didn’t go to the party tonight. Betcha he was there. 10:55

Sunday 17/8/86

I did nothing today. It was a BIG waste of time. Watched a little TV, drew and looked at photo albums and, of course, I ate. I had maths, english & speech HW to do, too. SHIT, huh? Oh well; It’s 9:00. I’m listening to Take 40 Australia. Will finish at 10:00. Hopefully I’ll get to sleep quickly Been thinking about Mark a lot too. Am really depressed. Why has all this happened? I’ve lost faith in him. (I can’t trust him) but I still want him badly. I’m also very frightened- frightened that if I went out with him & fell totally head over heels in love with him (like mima is with Brent) that what happened to mima & brent would happen to us, except that mark wouldn’t like me. Asking Petra today, before she left, to keep her eye on him & Nicole C at rehearsals today. She also thinks he’s a fantastic dancer & got a cute bum.

Recital, Singing, Study & THE Photo (4-10 August)

Published on August 4, 2014 by Elissa Coxen1 Comment

Monday 4/8/86

Stuff Mark W. Yes, he’s still going, strong as ever, with Tricia. He can lay his hopes to rest; I think he’s gutless. He should’ve at least made some move to let Tricia ‘down’ ‘slowly’ by now. [This is all still under the assumption fed to me by a friend of his a few weeks earlier that he was only in the relationship out of ‘obligation’. Clearly I was clinging to this Hope.] Unless he doesn’t like me anymore. [Oh, little Liss, there are potentially many more reasons than just that one.] Talk about ‘like’ . . . I think no one likes me. Today I was totally depressed; felt alone, hated, an outsider. (Tho Monique & Donna were being (fairly) nice) Fiona was (whether it really was becos’ she was feeling sick or not). grumpy. And mima holding little attention (interest in me). Even Sharon seemed turned against me. And as for the rest of the group, I’ve felt ‘hated’ or just ‘disliked’ by everyone ever since I found out that they all knew I liked Mark. [It’s tragic how one ‘negative’ thing in your life has the power to ‘blacken’ everything else. Your perception is fully tainted.] 9:00. well almost. Did no HW. Nasty habit procrastination. Lucy rang; I’m jealous she has a rage all the time. Is coming up soon for her dad’s wedding.

Tuesday 5/8/86

A Life in Words — Not sure why I cut it out of the card, but this is the photo from my school ID

I felt strangely happy today: the first day I didn’t feel depressed about Mark!! I was in a really good mood all day!! [Oh my god, Miss Jekyll & Hyde…was I REALLY that moody?] Mima & I rode to school (went to congo’s [a local bakery] – had junk!) Big lunch got our ID Cards… it was the 1st lunch hour Mark did not spend with Tricia. Wow! (I still think he’s a spunk, but I’m still hurt so I feel kinda ignorant when he’s around ie: I ignore him) [Ha!] Bad News: Fi might be away for tomorrow’s swimming recreation. What will I do?? [There’s my clingy side…] I don’t want to go on my own (Trish hates me, and Astia I’m not sure about) megan & Linda are doing it too, but I don’t know exactly what they’re gonna do tomorrow. OH woe is me!! This arvy, mima & I had to get her references for her new job (checkout girl at Coles!!) Took ages. Then took them there, she had to do a test. Rode home slowly! mima having more troubles with Brent, SAD. 9:43

Wednesday 6/8/86

Bloody Dance. Sharon & I were the only ones there, more about that after… cold today. Fi ended up going to town with her mum – I went with Becca G (she’s doing swimming too) was rather fun (Bit upsetting seeing Tricia giving Mark a massage) Mark looked at me a lot today: Sharon & I sat in the sun (to keep her warm and he stood right near us!) Then at the dance… when I said Sharon & I were the only ones; I meant girls. All the guys were there. Everyone (except Cameron, David & Chris K) Sharon’s purpose there was to take photos. She had fun. I was in one with Duane & Nick R then … it had to happen. Mark came up & Sharon said “I want a photo of you two.” How fucking embarrassing. We stood near a brick wall, the light for the flash was heating up) and all Mark’s friends were standing in a big group nearby. They wanted us to put arms around each other but I said No. Straight out. (Didn’t say why) Trisha, dearie. [Who wants to see a photo of their boyfriend with his arms around another girl? I was actually being considerate ….but because it takes “two to tango” there was definitely also an element of self-preservation.] Also Sharon had more problems with Terry. [One of the guys interested in her, on whom she was not keen.] But Mark was searching for me in the hall in the beginning! He stood on chairs to look over the dancing mob. [and you KNOW this because…? Someone actually told you that was what he was doing?] It’s 11:30 one night I will never forget.

Thursday 7/8/86

Fi and I rode today – we talked alot I told her about the dance (only told 4 others; Donna, Sandie, Moni, and Mima) Donna and Sandie were going to develop the photos at lunchtime – but couldn’t. (I want to get that photo so no one will see it) Anyway, I was quite depressed this morning, thinking I’d totally stuffed up my chances with mark until art (my picture’s looking’ good & that made me happy) But in chemistry, Cameron & I were talking; we got on to Mark. He was saying things and I was saying “I don’t care”. He said “if Mark dropped Tricia and asked you to go with him what’d you say?” “No” “What?” “No!” “Why?” “Cos he doesn’t like me” “Bull, he does so” .. “no he- doesn’t” “yes he does” “Nup” “Yes I should know.” “No, he doesn’t” … “Why not?” “Because (I couldn’t – didn’t have the guts to say that about him hurting me). because he just doesn’t. [Oh, the Fear! I want to go back and slap my young self!] 9:40 Is so freezing now finally!!

Friday 8/8/86

Oh I’m starting to feel a ‘want’ for Mark again. . . a real ‘want’, yet at the dance I was frightened (truly scared to death) about going to talk to him. I had wanted to be his friend first & make it go from there, but… it was like he avoided me this afternoon. I didn’t see him at all at big lunch. and he rode out the far gate after school. I really do like him – I think of how he smiled at me before the photo .. they didn’t process them today . . I’ve decided I’m gonna get them to process 3 for me (I’ll pay if I have to) so I can see them. [Three? Why three?] I want a picture of him, smiling. [I can’t help disclosing here it wasn’t the case, but more will be revealed in next week’s post…] It felt good, him standing so close to me for the photo. Felt good – I just wish. . . . Twinge of hope that he might “turn up” at Adrienne’s party. He won’t so I shouldn’t get my hopes up. Speech exam Tuesday I will fail. [Pessimism or Realism?] 11:05. Just watched the movie. Am rather tired. God, I really want Mark W….

Saturday 9/8/86

Ow! My wisdom tooth’s coming up! Woke rather early… after Julia left with dad, I went to Mrs McI’s Did mostly nothing at all, helpful there. At home, I abused my voice I read my chapter out aloud; put on my walkman & sang aloud to the songs, [my poor mother, or whomever else might have been unfortunate enough to experience that] read my poem over & over, and read my chapter over & over again. Finished that utterly stupid english assignment & maths HW. Have only speech, art, english & chem. left now!! Ha! Didn’t go to Adrienne’s party. Mima said she was going at 7:00pm when I rang, Polly said she’d walked to Fi’s and they’d walked there ages ago. Nice, huh? [Feeling ‘left out’ is something that has pervaded my life – evidently more so in my youth – but I now view it as part of the building of my independence in adulthood. While it’s admirable, independence isn’t necessarily always positive: apart from the fact that feelings of loneliness can recur, it can translate to commitment issues – which I don’t think I have, by the way…] So I rang Justine (to see if she was going – she wasn’t) & Beka was there, so we had a very long talk (mostly me, about Mark). God that guy is great. Do I love him? Early night (well 9:45!) Thinking about Mark. He is so gorgeous. Do I love him?? I don’t think so. But it’s a mighty big crush!!!

Sunday 10/8/86

Have now finished preparing all my speech items. (talk? yes!!) Just need to practise & practise & practise; flog myself!! About my othe[r] english assignment, I will ask Mr Grossetti if I can use my divorce survey (that is research) & will be easy for me. Otherwise, I pigged out, yet again. I really don’t know what’s gotten into me; my appetite is enormous. Also, from this past weekend, I have seen my schoolwork in a different view – I realise the importance of good grades & how much I need to work for them. I will (will I?) try to work harder to improve my grades. Also, thinking a bit about the party: wonder if by some chance, Mark was there. Oh, I wish things were different for us. (I really want that photo!!!) Oh Mark!! It’s 10:25. Movie should be finished soon – yes, now!! Gotosleep thinking about Mark. Yum

Rec Swimming, Impersonation & Great Grandma’s Fall (28 July-3 August)

Published on July 28, 2014 by Elissa Coxen1 Comment

Monday 28/7/86

My allergies are comin’ again. My nostrils get blocked & run etc. (It’s not a cold cos I always get a sore throat before the blocked nose…etc) It seems, too, that lotsa other people have it as well ie: there are quite a few others who are having ‘troubles’ besides me..!!!! Also, I have decided that mark shall be only my friend. This is his 3rd week with Tricia. Either he doesn’t like me, or the poor guy doesn’t know when to stop. [hilarious] He’s really stuffing up his chance with me… (yes, I am hurt. Very.) But I can learn to cope with it. After all, I still want to be his friend & (I hope) he’ll want to be mine. Bio test tomorrow. Ungh! Also got new maths teacher (forgot his name) but he’s better than Mr Burger (I think) Poor Mark. I don’t know why, but I feel sorry for him! Comm. Games. Ha! Aust coming tie 2nd with no. of gold medals – 15. Eng 17, Canada 17. We’re going downhill now 9:35

Tuesday 29/7/86

Great Grandma is dying. Mum got a phone call tonight. She had a fall (ie: fell over) and her health is decreasing rapidly. Mum doesn’t know whether to tell Nana or not; she will have to, though. Sad, huh? (Poor Julia – really sentimental – crying) [I probably should have used the word ‘sensitive’ because we really didn’t have enough contact with our great grandmother to be ‘sentimental’ about her. Actually, this has surprised me altogether: I thought my great grandmother had passed many years before this.] My blocked sinuses are giving me the shits. And Mark? Well, I’m finding it a bit easier to go without seeing him. (I still like to sometimes, though) And thinking more about him, I wondered how it would ever have worked; him one of the most popular guys in Yr 11, and me. It’s unthinkable. Not to mention, his looks compared to mine (ie: he’s much more attractive than me) [Blaring lack of self worth there, ya think?] Y’know what I mean …. Judy thinks (said this arvy) Tricia really wants Mark, really likes him, but he doesn’t like her much. Haven’t done any HW tonight. Will hafta (esp. maths) do in the morning. Too tired to watch Comm. Games tonite. 9:55

Wednesday 30/7/86

My cold’s shitting me off. [Ok, so it IS a cold now?] Today, mima & Umico (or however you spell it) [Japanese exchange student that Jemima’s family were hosting] went with all the other Japanese billets & their hosts on tour on the Tablelands. They had fun!! Meanwhile: we were bored. Short lessons, & after big lunch (fi, sharon & I went to town to try and get Fi’s keycard) had to choose recreational sport. Sharon, Donna & Sandie did photography. Astia, me & Fi did rec. swimming. Little did I know (until we got there) that so did Jarrod B, Peter P, Nick R, Patrick O’S, Terry C, Tricia & …Mark. SHAME. If I could’ve; I would’ve swapped (but there was nothing else to do, really) SHIT. Oh well. Also when mime came back, she talked to Terry & Nick while waiting for the bus. Nick likes me, wants me to choose between him and P.P. YUK. Just been to Trinity Bay’s school play, ‘Westside Story’ – PATHETIC!! CHS ‘Grease’ flog that!! [Clearly I was fiercely loyal to my school.] Mark wasn’t there thank god. Lotsa others were tho’! Is 11:10 (Really cold!)

Thursday 31/7/86

Lucy’s birthday and I didn’t do anything for it. Umah! Pretty boring day. (Biology exam was fairly hard; I didn’t do too well) Art was good; have gotten started with my banner & I think it’ll work well!!! And at big lunch we sat in our area; Justine, Marge & Heather & Linda sang soft songs. I almost fell asleep. It was beautiful!!! And, well, I seemed to see a bit more of Mark. I think. But if he was in a position where he could see me, I would deliberately move; hope he gets the message. [Um, yeah. Because guys are that ‘aware’ in general. Pffft!] I don’t want to do recreational swimming. It’ll be stupid & boring. [….and painful having to watch the couple be together…] Why aren’t there more people Fi & I know who are doing it?? (who can do it) Oh, woe is me. Getting sick of watching Comm. Games all the time – only watch the highlights now & then. Is about 9:07. having an early-ish night. Will probably have another boring weekend. Woe is me. [I tend to like this little phrase, don’t I?]

Friday 1/8/86

It’s 12:15. Don’t ask me why I’m still awake… I don’t know. I’m watching the Commonwealth Games and time has flown! I rang Justine this arvy (mum couldn’t get me a hair appointment this arvy – Monday will have to do) and around 6:30 (6:45) we picked her up & we went late nite. Town was empty. Looked around – didn’t find much to my liking.. some was but I still had doubts. Nevertheless, I came home with a pair of white stockings & a black kohl pencil. Today was rather boring. Spent all lunch hour in art. My banner is stuffed. Don’t give a shit. About Mark, either. Mr G thinks I could be another Max Gillies if I applied myself. [Max Gillies is an Australian comic actor, celebrated for his ability to impersonate primarily Australian politicians. He was best known for his ABC television programme, ‘The Gillies Report’. One of my most vivid memories was of Mr G.’s expression when I first recited the part of Juno in ‘Juno & the Paycock’ in our class reading of the play. I was secretly chuffed that he tended to give me lead character roles in almost everything we read from thereon in.] He really can’t believe ‘how good I am at accents’ etc. Thinks I could be a great impersonator. Ha. Ha. Boy I am tired. But I’m going to Earlville tomorrow. Hopefully I’ll be successful there ie: find a great shirt for the dance

Saturday 2/8/86

While All I bought last night was the stockings and eyeliner, [today] I spent about $47 . . . two blouses – a white long sleeved shirt (the one from Jack is too see-thru) Love it!! And also a black & white striped long sleeve shirt – a bit small around sleeve length – and sleeve (wrist) buttons tight but great as well!! And also some black mascara (thick; really great!) Back at home, I messed around; Did nothing in particular; a bit of (very little bit of) HW; dancing; listning to music; little TV; watching My Fair Lady on TV now. Am tired. Julia & mum are in bed; just Geoff & me watching TV. With my new shirts, I actually still don’t know what to wear to the dance; the problem this time being that I have so many combinations with my new clothes that I don’t know what to wear!!! [Oh my, too many options!] 10:30 already; at least 1½ hrs of the movie left yet. Oh I’m tired. Sleep in tomorrow. Haircut monday – can’t wait.

Sunday 3/8/86

Another wasted day. I read my book for speech, tho. Only have 3 chapters left. Also tried my english assignment. Got almost on half of a foolscap done, [back in the day, before computers, we wrote our assignments by hand, on paper. A ‘foolscap’ was a standard paper size. I’m fairly sure you can still find foolscap paper & pads at stationery stores] but I wasn’t happy with it so scrapped it. I’m just not in the mood; I have the ideas; too many ideas cos I want to put them all on paper, then it sounds stupid so I have to start again. [Ah, this. THIS is what I still struggle with today. It’s my major block to writing: too many thoughts leading me off-track. It’s a HUGE contributor to Procrastination. Lack of concentrated thought/ideas + perfectionism = a recipe for ‘disaster’ in the ‘achievement’ stakes] So I’ll have to wake early tomorrow & do it. Otherwise I ate. I am bloody ashamed at the amount, too. Hope I’m not going to grow again. Tall enough. Oh well… this’ll be the 4th week Mark’s been with Trish. I’ll have to shut off now, for sure. It’s gonna be bloody hard. Sometimes he smiles like in Bio, someone talking to/ teasing me. He still likes me, at least a bit, that’s for sure. But.. I can’t hold on. I’m so hurt already. what would it be like later?? 8:45

Bugs, Broken Bones, Bitching & the Commonwealth Games (21-27 July)

Published on July 21, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 21/7/86

Oh! It’s (almost) 9:15 and I’ve just done about ¾ page of my english assignment. I must get a move on (it’s obvious I won’t get it done for tomorrow, even though it was due today.) We’re riding tomorrow, too!! Goody! I love riding. Boring day, really. Almost fell asleep in doub. chem. almost fell asleep in trip. art and almost fell asleep in maths (Nah! I was laughing in maths) Cameron’s so nice. I’m really, really truly glad he is my great friend. Did no other HW tonight (am getting way behind in maths; I just don’t understand it.) Lotsa bugs around [we didn’t have flyscreens on our windows or doors: louvres are hard to fit and french doors lose their charm if you try to fix screen doors to them. Plus, we probably couldn’t afford them] and … it’s quite warm tonight (hold it, I’ll open some windows, I think!!) Believe it or not Trish said hello to me today. Why she being so nice?? [why not?] mima was away – got a wog. [While in Australian slang the word ‘wog’ is a derogatory term for generally southern Europeans, it is also used to describe illness, like she got a ‘bug’] don’t really feel like saying I love mark cos do I??

Tuesday 22/7/86

I laughed a lot today. In Bio, Chris (K) was telling Donna & I all about Cameron’s accidents… he is so accident-prone! Broken bones, cuts & abrasions… car accidents you name it; he’s had it!! And laughing in maths, too!! Funneeee!! I really don’t think I love Mark. I look at him (when I can) but I think that’s all it is – I just think he’s gorgeous. I mean, I don’t feel for him I suppose my feelings could change if ‘something’ happened (when?) I could get properly interested in him, but at the moment, I’m not. Brent was teasing me about it in front of a whole lot of people at lunch time today. Did little HW today but I’m stayin home tomorrow!! Sports Carnival is on (mima & fi are too) I’ve got heaps HW to do → esp. speech. mima told me this morning when we were riding to school that our speech exam has been put forward. We now have 3 weeks to go. SHIT!!

Wednesday 23/7/86

Boy am I tired!! “Mistral’s daughter” finished about 11:30 I slept in though! (I stayed home!!) At speech, mima said she’d tried to ring me but the answering machine was on. I was home, too. Oh well!! (I am very far behind in speech. Didn’t get any done today – I was doing my english. Come to think of it, I got very little of that done too!! – But I did a lot more tonight.) I still have maths to catch up on. Oh woe is me. wedding (Royal one) [Prince Andrew getting hitched to Sarah Ferguson] was on. Watched parts of it while I did my english. Am bloody tired. Could not get my eyes open all this morning!! Took me about 3 or 4 hours to wake up!! Bloody bugs all over the place. Is 11:15. Another late night (SHIT)

Thursday 24/7/86

I’ve come to a definite conclusion. I don’t ‘like’ Mark anymore. Sure, he’s still the most gorgeous hunk, but I don’t really care what happens to him. I mean, he could have made an attempt (he has in the past) but he’s too shy (I’m really one to speak, huh??!!) To begin with, if he likes me so much, why fuck Tricia? [1. He’s attracted to her] And even if he did go with her after it to make her feel ‘respectable’, why has it been 2 weeks? Why didn’t he drop her after 1?? [Clearly it’s not just ‘obligation’] He’s stupid. Does he really think I’d like him after he did that? What a dickhead. [Oh the Green Monster.. it’s ugly isn’t it?] Anyway, I got my assignment (english) done but didn’t hand it in. Will tomorrow. Bio exam tomorrow, 1st period. Cheat!!! [Cheat? That’s not like me!] Is 9:40. Will I get to sleep early tonite??? Rode again today. I love it!!

Friday 25/7/86

I am so tired (watching Commonwealth Games at the moment) Ate a big dinner. Err…!!! In Biol, (we didn’t have our exam as Mr Short was away) our relief teacher gave us all these logic (etc) problems. Was fun. At the end we were doing anagrams, & I got one right, and Duane (Dwain!!) said something to embarrass me (it worked) – (all the guys were sitting near, too!) Donna reckons “guess who was looking at you and smiling?” I said, “I don’t care”, but I had the biggest smile on my face!! Otherwise, a boring day. Nothing fantastic happened at all. The news is on now. I think I’ll go to bed now. I am tired. Not working tomorrow. Don’t feel like it. Lucy’s birthday in 4 days. What’ll I do for her?? Ring her?? Or send something?? I wish, wish, wish Mark cared about me so much that… that he wouldn’t hurt me so. [haha, so fickle! Thought you didn’t care?!] 9:35

Saturday 26/7/86

I did very little of everything today; except eat. I pigged out so ‘severely’! And I wonder why I’m fat (or at least, bulgy) Oh well! Watched TV, did bitta HW (have left maths & english for tomorrow) Am tired – Is 10:10 Comm. Wealth Games are on (Australia leading in medal tally so far!! 6 gold!!! Yay!!!) Dunno if I’ll go to bed yet, or not… I’m tired but I can sleep in (or can I?? I didn’t this morning) Wish things were like they were before. Before I found out Mark liked me; before Sharon knew I liked him. Now, it’s useless. We both know & are both too shy. It’s not fair. Not fair. Oh well…. life MUST go on. 10:20 now. Oh. (winge, whine) why does Mark have to be such a jerk?????????????? [Oh my GOD… never satisfied!]

Sunday 27/7/86

Ha Ha Ha. What a bludge. Yes, you guessed it; I did next to nothing constructive except PIG OUT yet again. I can’t believe how much I eat. Went to visit Nana again (we went Friday night, too→ she’s in hospital again – she stopped taking all her tablets cos they were making her sick and got a bad [rheumatoid] arthritis attack again. Poor nin) [‘Nin’ was a nickname we had for our Nana] Boring! Watched Comm. Games ‘Hi lives’ again this morning & are watching live now. Aust has won 5/10 possible golds in swimming so far. Excellent huh?!!! Want a reasonably early night. Is 9:30 now. Probly get to bed around 10:00. Am a bit hot, too. Did only a bit of maths HW today. Thank god for school!! (Started to worry today, again, about my future after school→ it really frightens me. About Mark; well, I just wish it could be different. It won’t work.

An Emotional Rollercoaster & a Shitty Babysitting Experience (14-20 July)

Published on July 14, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 14/7/86

Everyone was talking about the party (or at least, the formal) “Everyone” did something on Saturday night. I feel so ‘depressed’. Donna said Mark was there & when I wondered if he was with anybody she said “I’m not saying anything”. But later said she “truly didn’t know” (Everyone was pissed) And Fiona & them had a great time at the formal (she got home 6:00 in the morning!) And Sharon gave me my present (as did Sandy & Monique) and talked to me again. Nothing has been said about ‘it’. We’re buddies again (…) And Fiona, Jemima, Brent & guess who …Cameron are going to the show together. How more depressing. I’ll go with Sharon & probably never “see” Mark . . . Oh, I’m so depressed. 9:45. School photos Blech. I am the tallest in our form Fuck it [Yep, I hated being tall. After all, it makes you stand out more. And I’m super-shy, remember?] I don’t think I like Mark anymore. I feel kind of “cheated”. [!!] It’d never work; we’re too shy And he probably doesn’t like me very much anyway. [So easy for me to fall into ‘despair’]

Tuesday 15/7/86

Boring Boring Boring . . I’ve decided I don’t care (very much) for Mark anymore . . . I probably really do (actually, I do) but I like people thinking “I’m crazy”. [okay. I don’t understand THAT] I’m tired. It’s 10:30. Things with him are in a different perspective now. Also, because mima & Brent wanted to go to the show on their own, Fi, Cameron & me (and Sharon & Adam G too, I s’pose) are going together (Gonna ask Fi to hint to Cameron about Mark…!! Ha Ha. Very funny. It’s raining. And it’s rather hot. might sleep in-the-nick tonight!! Probably not. Boring day. Did no (only Chem.) HW. Umah – I’m too lazy (and HOT) Bloody tired. Big black bags under my eyes, betcha!!! SHOW!! I love it!! Feel, in a way tho that I’m still intruding on Fiona & Cameron. Monique left at big lunch to go to Townsville for her ballet exams 2morrow. GOOD LUCK MONI! Feel Jemima’s not happy with me either OH WELL 8:45

Wednesday 16/7/86

Officially declared BAD DAY. (1) And most important … Mark is going out with Tricia D. I told you I knew he’d been with someone at the party… the problem is, he’s still with her. Why? What a bastard. This proves one of 3 things he either didn’t like me as much as everyone reckons, or if he did, he’s being bloody selfish in going out with Trisha just for [one reason] or (3) he’s trying to make me jealous (which is stupid & wouldn’t work anyway – I don’t get jealous – I’m sensitive – I get hurt) SO NOW I’ve plastered “Mark W; bastard” etc all over the place. [“All over the place” would have been in non-public places. I still wouldn’t want to burn my bridges…] Fuck him. I like Cameron. . he makes an effort to talk to me. And he’s funny & I’m going to the show with him. [?!!! but he’s not into you!] But I’m not gonna try’n’make Mark jealous. [psssh! ha ha ha] It’ll probably turn him off like he did to me (as you can see, I still care) And Donna did know .. she just didn’t want to hurt me.. (2) mima had a big fight with her mum & ran away but when I rang there around 8:15, she was home but in conference with her mum

[In the Notes section at the back of my diary, I added the following – as an ‘answer’ – to some thoughts I had penned a week or two earlier (nothing here is dated other than the month) when I was in a more positive frame of mind about Mark:]

Whoa, girlie!!! With all this about Tricia, you really can’t be so sure anymore. Could you ever trust this guy enough?? Is he the answer to your dreams? No? Yes? What are you??

Thursday 17/7/86

Now I don’t know what to think. (we rode to school late this morning: 8:15 & took it slowly..) mima was upset & Fiona went with her fo[r] console they missed Yr11 parade & ½ of pd 1. So Cameron sat next to me. We talked. Got onto Mark. I said something like “Dickhead” C: That’s not nice me: I know… C: He likes you… me: I’ve known that for a long time. He went on telling me about how he likes me, and is only going out with Trish cos he feels obligated [Omission of facts about others, here] Also.. I find out from Becca G that everybody knows I like Mark. [With hindsight it’s easy to condemn myself for being so naive..] Great, huh?!! Sharon is so unreliable. I know it was her, even tho she denied it. [..and then to blame someone else for something that would have been so easily perceived by others. She was also not the only person who knew…] Also Cameron rang about Fiona – he really likes her a lot & is worried about the show. I eventually convinced him to still go. Is 9:35…!!! I maths, Cameron & Chris told me how much they hate Sharon. So many people do. It’s unbelievable!! Cameron also knows everything about how I feel about Mark – I’ve “begged” him not to tell [Ha! Who’s his alliance likely to lie with, Elissa? You or his best mate?]

Friday 18/7/86

♥ It was alright!! (The show, that is…) Firstly, today I listened to music did a bit of HW and got ready. I was bloody excited… would Mark be there?? If so, with or without Tricia? Picked up everybody, swapped into cars at Monique’s and went. Big group… but soon Monique, Sandy, Chris & Glyn left. So Cameron, Fi, Sharon & Adam G, me (& mima and brent later on) went on everything [amusement park rides]. we (cameron, adam & I) stood off while the others went on the zipper [That ride – pictured right – was always my most feared. I think to this day, I’ve only ever been on it once]. Then he came … all night I wanted to see him, but was too shy to talk (or even look at him) Yes, Tricia was there, but at the end she wasn’t and we went on dodgems. (not him & I – all of us) And walked to the gates together. Mima told me the things he said about me. Mima: Isn’t Lissa gorgeous? Mark: (without hesitation; very hastily answering, determinedly) Yes! (And then Trish came. Gave mima very dirty looks all nite) Also ~~mima~~: cameron: where’s elissa? Mark (quickly) up there.. mima: keeping your eye on her. Mark: you bet.

Saturday 19/7/86

I will never babysit again in my life!! Screaming babies I just cannot hack. Don’t go telling me I’ll never be able to cope with children, tho… [I just don’t like loud noises in general…] we finally got her to lie down & she’s going to go to sleep I think. Poor kid; I understand how frightened she is. Mum (& her mum) are at a National Trust Dinner. I’ll scream if they’re too late. I wanted an early night in the first place. Fuck that. I did nothing today. I just didn’t know what to do (in the way of an english assignment… my maths is driving me up the wall) And, of course, my day wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t spend some time thinking about Mark!! It’s 8:50 now; god knows what time I’ll get to bed. I am bloody tired, too. Last night it was 12:05 when I turned off my lamp!!! I’m thinking a bit about Mark & me. I don’t think we’d be very good… to start with, we find it hard to talk to each other….what next?

Sunday 20/7/86

Got to sleep around 11:45…. that baby …oooh! We only managed to make her happy (& occupied) in the last 45 mins or so. Otherwise we ignored her & she cried (screamed) or (mostly) sat on the couch keeping quiet. She also shit herself & even when mum came home, we didn’t want to try & change her nappy in case she kicked up another stink (it was too late in the night for that) I fell asleep just after mum & julia had successfully changed her nappy & her parents came. [It’s no surprise that my sister assisted in the nappy-changing; she was and is very maternal. Me not so much. Obviously.] Today I did big fat NOTHING. I had maths & english but I did none of both. What a pisshead. I kept thinking “what will I do?” for my english ..I have no idea. So I haven’t even started. Mr G will have fun revving me tomorrow. Getta move on. Just watched the movie. Umah!! Is 10:45 My, my, my …. think a lot about Mark. Would it (us) work? Really?

A Water Fight, a Doppelgänger & a Half Leg Wax (7-13 July)

Published on July 7, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 7/7/86

Purritty embarassing! Ha! Apparently cameron was there when he rang… shame… so I’m sure a few other people know now too… Cameron, Keith, Mark, Brent & probly Steven. Girls: Sharon (mima told her; she’s totally ignoring me!!!) monique sandra (P) mima, fi, me & tanja S. I didn’t want ‘anyone’ to know… I felt terrible… (kind of) Fi & mime kept telling me to go & talk to him … as if!! Walk up sit down & start talking. I don’t have the guts, sorry. [Have to say, I still wouldn’t do it now either. Yes, I am still THAT shy.] Otherwise, fairly boring day. Think Mark didn’t mind the call. Thinking a lot more about it … he left his dinner, talking to me & the more I think about, I realise he did ask me some questions & talked too. [It’s amazing how well our Minds can ‘warp’ things…] Dad came round this arvy [it was his birthday] – gave him screwdriver set, copper beer mug and socks (& lotsa hugs & kisses) mima & fi went to town after school to get my prezzy!!! 9:35 (miss my digital watch!) can finally do [understand, I assume] my maths!! Hip Hip HOORAY!

Tuesday 8/7/86

Got a bit depressed this afternoon. I feel so dumb – I HATE my shyness. Yet, that is what they all say Mark likes in me. But it also means I won’t be able to talk to him (at school anyway) I am so confused…. Watching the mini-series now “Mistral’s Daughter”. (Besides being a little corny, it is a beautiful story.) 9:50.. gonna crash soon. Did no HW this arvy. [Removing name here for privacy reasons] went home with [and again] (and guess what? . . . yes! She said she had to tell someone. She said it was “great”!! !!!) so walking home, she stopped in at my place. We talked. Sometimes about Sharon…a fair bit about Mark. If there was a happy medium between shyness & “bravery” If I could just be able to say ‘Hi’ now & then & talk casually in class etc. it would be perfect. I am tired. And kind of depressed & confused & unsure & insecure. [Heavy]

Wednesday 9/7/86

We skipped athletics trials again this week (and with my luck, they’ll have cracked-down on those who “skip” it so will get into trouble on my birthday…) Went to town at big lunch… looked for [cassette] tape [of the album] “Little Creatures” by Talking Heads (no one had it) then got Fi’s (formal) shoes off lay-by & got lotsa food. Stopped back at Dunphy’s newsagent for the rest of the arvy, reading mags again. Polly & her friend Selina were there this time too. Also today realised just how much work I have for art and, all over, how much more I’ll have to try to achieve my goal of at least 3 VHA’s this semester…→ A LOT!! And Mark? Well, I didn’t see much of him. Going to Nana’s for tea tonight [it was her birthday…within the space of 3 days, my dad, my grandmother & I all celebrated our birthdays], on our way to Newmarket Drive In bottle shop, saw a person with blonde hair riding along. Thought Cameron. And it was. And Mark was there too!! YUM YUM! Did no HW. Is 8:50.

Thursday 10/7/86

MY BIRTHDAY…WOWEE. The biggest, sorest pimple on my nose… PAIN! And it’s bright red! Fairly good day. Woke up to phone calls galore & ran late!! From Fi & mima, I got make-up (eye shadows!!) and cards + 1 from Donna. Not much of a fuss at school Thankful, in a way. Pretty boring day except that I missed double art for a bio talk (only to be near mark – otherwise I wouldn’t have gone) Quite fun & I think Mark’s looking at me a bit more again now. (??!!) Upset after school – the CHS & saints footy clash was on & no one had invited me. After a lot of tears [oh dear, not a happy birthday?], I scabbed a lift with the Brewers (felt absolutely terrible) mark wasn’t there. But Cameron (2nd best!) was. Got $100 so far [total birthday cash, that is]. Dad & Geoff & Jenny yet to go!!! [Expectant little thing, aren’t you?!] (Hoped Mark’d ring or something) eyes are so sore (from crying I guess) stinging – must shut them & get some sleep!! 9:45.

Friday 11/7/86

If there was any doubt, that can (again) be rid of; I have new again, straight from “the man” (Cameron. McK) Fiona said “does mark like Elissa?” In ~~biology~~ dance practise. Of course (loyalty to his friend) he didn’t say but she bugged him & he said (something like) “Mark really likes Elissa. He’d really like to talk to her but is too shy. He’d like to walk up & talk but wouldn’t know how to start a conversation.” FREAKY!! I’m happy! I LOVE MARK!! (I look at him and wonder “that (meaning gorgeous hunk) likes ME?” How can it be? Anyway (I had a good time in chemistry with Cameron, even had a ‘waterfight’ (which Mark witnessed the middle & end of) Went to town with Julia & Justine tonight. Saw so many things I’d like that ended up only buying my shoes – which I adore!!!!!!!! ♥ Mark! 10:45. In town in Chandlers [THE eminent music store in town at that time], saw a guy (not really good looking) had looked so much like Mark ie; his features so closely resembled mark; wonder if its his brother. Unbelievable how similar he looks!

Saturday 12/7/86

I did nothing. (I mean, after I went clothes shopping..) I got a pair of white leggins/ski pants and a heavy cotton jumper/dress… soft pink. Also got white & soft pink socks (cotton, knee-hi) and mum bought Julia a colourful shirt. But this arvy, I did barely anything. Waste of a day… could’ve waxed my legs or something. . . (eg. HW) But finally got thru’ to mima’s around 6:15… she said they’d come at 6:30 to take me to see the Yr 12’s going to their formal. I wish I could’ve seen Fi . . apparently she looked beautiful [dolled up as an usher for the function – the privilege I had also been offered but declined]. I really felt stupid … why didn’t I go? I know why & in a way I don’t regret saying no. [Well that’s a relief! Acceptance of the outcome of my choice, and a hint of the presence of some degree of self esteem!] Anyway, I’ve already started planning my dress etc!!! 10:10 Hope Mark will be my partner at our formal. Hope so. Yummiest Guy out!! I love Mark W!!!

Sunday 13/7/86

Boring! I did my set HW (and I didn’t even start my english assignment) – well, (what I could do of maths) I didn’t have much. Then I waxed my half leg (shins) I’ve washed & moisturized them a lot this time so the hair follicles will hopefully not get infected; feels better!! (Missed a fair bit!!) Also played lots of records [yep, black vinyl – the original recorded music medium!]. But it was rather boring. Love thinking about Mark….. spunk. Also this arvy, experimented with my hair … made it wavy or crinkly & have decided to do it like that for my school photo tomorrow. Looked good! Also have decided how I’m gonna grow my hair …. Length to my lips (all the same; a bob) and get perm solution combed through it; push in some kinks so its slightly wavy or more “bouncy” – “curvy” !!! [Uh-huh and that’ll work. I had fanciful ideas about how things worked!] 10:15 Tired! Got big red dots & pimples all over my face. Will hafta use coverup so they don’t show in my photo.. unless they miraculously heal tonite!!!

[Although I didn’t date it, I’m fairly sure the following spiel I wrote in the ‘Notes’ section at the back of my diary happened sometime in this week – the mood and tone seem to correlate:] Mark is the biggest spunk. Want to make friends with him (at least) Am so upset. How the hell can I do this? Let’s face it; I am far too shy. He has to make the first move. I think he does like me a LOT. I think. (I hope) well, the way it’s going I know I am liking him LOTS more all the time. Just have to look at him and I feel elated knowing he likes me; that beautiful, tall hunk likes me, in all my plainness. It is inconceivable. [It’s inconceivable that I had such an incredibly huge inferiority complex. But, I was what I was!] But I love (??) him or at least have the biggest crush on him ever. . . .

Adoration, Shyness, A Fight & THE Phone Call (30 June-6 July)

Published on June 30, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 30/6/86

Actually felt sick & didn’t want to come [to school] this morning, but, if anything, this was an excellent day to prove Mark really does like me!! He was always up in my line of vision (and me in his!!!!) [oh dear, Elissa, that is not reliable ‘evidence’] Sharon & I made some goofs! At big lunch, he wasn’t around so we decided to go and watch the volleyball. got halfway down & saw him there. It looked so sus[picious]→ we stopped walking, stood then turned and walked back up (cos he (& Cameron & Steven) were too!) We then went around under N block, waited till they’d gone & walked down to volleyball (which ended up not being on) so spent rest of lunch hour at [our usual] spot, right in his vision. I was kinda avoiding him cos I felt embarrassed. WHY? Well, that’s just me!! [Massively insecure, which I labelled ‘shyness’ because I had no idea how else to describe it.] 9:02 Fairly early night. Not much HW. Mr Grossetti was away for english – we had no teacher!! Talked with Donna

Tuesday 1/7/86

Mmmm. What a hunk♥ Yum Yum Yum Yum! Stayed as much in view (as I dared) today. In Biology, we were in G block. He sat in front row, we sat in 2nd front – I was right behind him so there was no way he could see me, but, he turned and sat sideways on his chair!! [Wow!] (Cos Mr Short was talking from the side of the room) [Oh. That casts one helluva lot of doubt on your idea, Liss.] But also at lunchtime, I got some good ‘long’ looks at him.What a honey – what a hunk the best body & perfectly gorgeous face – spunk ♥♥♥ Yum Yum Yum! [Vomit bag, anyone?] Did only maths HW – all I had. Am ashamed I have done nothing for speech. Is 9:37. Yet another late nite?? Hunk of the year!

Wednesday 2/7/86

Not-so-much drooling over Mark today→ in biology tho, I (Maureen, Donna & I did absolutely nothing! Big Bludge) told Maureen everything I did on my holidays. Mark was sitting in front again in the lab (Talking to Dwain -or greg?? I think !!?? Dunno!!) and when I was talking about Crocodile Rock, mark briefly turned and looked at me. Wowee kazowee!! Biggest hunk out!! [Oh my God. Really?] Then, everyone disappeared at lunchtime→ finally came back as mima, fi & I took off to Fi’s news agency – skipped athletics try-outs. That mightn’t sound bad (we sat in the back room reading magazines & eating food!!) but we missed a parade where we were marked off. Hope we don’t get into big trouble. [I’ve never really been a Rebel] Justine just rang; been on the phone for about 40 minutes. Is 9:07!!

Thursday 3/7/86

What a bloody hunk!♥ Sat in the same row (1st row) as him today in biology. I was on the end & there was Maureen, Donna & (then) Greg between us but he was unperturbed. He has such a penetrating gaze. Sometimes I was caught out and didn’t know what to do. He is such a hunk. I wish things would speed up. [Hmm, ever heard of ‘being proactive’?] Sharon’s not talking to me for some reason. She hurt me (not physically) today. Cutting remark about my shyness “If you want to blow your chance then I’ll have nothing to say about it.” [She’s clearly exasperated by my lack of initiative.] Bitch. That hurt me cos I know its true. [Exactly] I am shy & I probably will lose my chance cos of it. Otherwise it was a fair day. I try to tell myself to keep looking at him often as possible but… easier said than done. 8:33. Early night cos the bags under my eyes are getting bigger & blacker

Friday 4/7/86

Fat lot of good going to bed at 8:30 did me: didn’t’ get to sleep till around 10:30.. then slept restlessly & woke around 5:30-6:00 And Sharon has pushed things too far. Bad day today. So weak & tired this morning; then I was the only one standing on the bus. But worst of all: I (still hurt about what she said) ignored Sharon this morning so she got shitty. Then mima asked me what was wrong – I couldn’t help it – the tears sprung up & Fi told her. Mima saying how much of a bitch she was Linda & Justine ‘comforted’ me too. So I didn’t say another word to her all day. After last period chemistry, Linda told me how, in 6th p. choral music, Sharon told her everything. EVERYTHING – I like Mark, Mark likes me etc. After talking Linda said she wouldn’t tell. I know she won’t but if Sharon told her… there’s no doubt she’ll spill the beans to everyone to hurt me more. 8:53 See if I can get some sleep tonight. Julia went to see Police Academy III with some friends; Cherie & Melinda are staying over. Big Bitch Sharon. [It’s great to look back at this now and see how I brought the entire thing on myself. Sharon’s comment the day before clearly struck a raw nerve: exposing one of my ‘flaws’ to me – which I actually acknowledged! I should hardly have blamed her for that…wasn’t she in fact doing me a favour? And the rest of it is Karma. I reacted poorly, setting of a chain of reciprocal reactions… that’s how it works. Ya gotta break the chain where you are involved in order to stop the ball rolling!]

Saturday 5/7/86

Earned $39!! Did 96 drums in exactly 3 hours!! (9:24-12:24 = $24) then 3¾hrs making new labells = $15. Not bad eh? Mum took me home. But the big event was… I was getting ready to go to mima’s and the phone rang. Mum said “It’s for you…it’s a male!” I got “excited” a bit .. but I practically knew it’d be Brent…but what for? I said “Hello?” “Hi, it’s Mark.” I FREAKED!! He said “You wanted me to call you.” I wondered who said that.. “nope” I was embarrassed. Apparently he got a message “Mark ring Elissa 552143” I hung up after a lot of embarrassment saying “ahh…sorry…I’m so embarrassed” ..and giggling. Rushed round to mima’s & told her. Then YOU KNOW WHAT?? SHE MADE ME RING HIM BACK!! At first it was hard to talk but I talked for 1hr!! TO MARK!! (And by that, I mean I talked… he barely said anything I thought I was boring him then after watched Fletch.. slept at Fi’s – waited til 1:00 till Brent came….got to sleep around 3:00.

Sunday 6/7/86

Woke around 9:00 – thinking alot about Mark. Wondering whether that phone call will benefit me or not. Hope it does… hope he can say hello to me, or at least smile at me. Hope, I hope so much… we had brekky around 10:30 then mima & I went back to her place (Fi had to work) And went to Ellis Beach. Was fun.. got burnt (but it doesn’t hurt at all!) Thinking about Mark….. Fiona thought that “message” was made-up, ie: an excuse for him to ring. [Either that or one of my girlfriends – possibly even Sharon – rang masquerading as me and left a message with my details. I never found out regardless.] The only thing is.. it’ll be so obvious to him, now, that I like him. It’s not that bad; but I didn’t want him to know initially. [Again, with so much hindsight, this is hilarious. Naive little me! Many people had worked that out a long time ago.] Oh, I’ll be freaking out tomorrow especially… worried about going to school and seeing him.. I am already Sheeitt! I’m watching “Blue Lagoon”. It’s almost finished. Almost 10:30. Lost my digital watch at the beach & Anna’s coming to CHS now!!

Eyeshadow, Music Videos & the Clubbing Fail (23-29 June)

Published on June 23, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 23/6/86

Boring! Boring! Boring! I ate and watched TV. And that was about it. I also got my haircut and love it! All the long bits are cut off! I have a very short bob and the right side is layered short – blending into the bob [making it the true ‘asymmetrical’ style that was the 80’s]. The very first hairstyle I’ve ever been completely happy with! Jeez, I’m gonna be a Norm if I keep this up→ Watchin TV & eating Boring. [“Norm” for those who don’t know, was an animated character – representative of the ‘normal’ Aussie bloke – central to the governments’ physical activity campaign “Life. Be in it.” which ran for many years, attempting to educate the Australian public and encourage changing to healthier lifestyle habits.] M.M.MM Mark! Can’t wait to see him again!! Talked to Petra (she came over) she thinks he’s spunk too. Mrs W also came over to pick up Sharon’s bike HOW BORING!! 9:30 Gotta hava shower yet. Gord!!

Tuesday 24/6/86

Today, after a lot of phone calls, it was decided we’d go to town (some people had specific things to do) and also see “Crocodile Dundee”. Was a great day! Beka, fi, Mima, lucy & me (And Brent sometimes too) walked around and had fun. I walked down to dad and got $90 for schoolbag, jumper & 2 shirts. (But didn’t buy any thing after all cos I couldn’t find anything I particularly liked.) Croc. Dund. was fabulous (again!) for everyone except fi (& Brent I think) it was the 2nd or 3rd time!! Kept hoping Mark’d pop up from nowhere. But it remained→ a hope. Went to Lucy’s after. (mima, Fi & I) to discuss tomorrow nite. We’re staying over – Mr W shouting us to dinner→ we’re gonna sneak out to Crocodile Rock!!! [A popular nightclub in Cairns that was strangely not even located in the CBD, but in a heritage building – called the House on the Hill – in the suburb of Mooroobool.] Ragey!! Hope Mark’ll be there!! Is 9:13

Wednesday 25/6/86

Boring until nighttime!! Made a new glass bead bracelet, watched a bit of TV, visited Lucy and got excited!! Went to Lucy’s again around 5:30. Got hair fixed. Looked great but felt like straw!! [That means there was an abundance of gel used…] Then started make-up when mima, fi & Beka came. They looked so much better than me (not more grown-up just prettier – better clothed etc) Rushed round. Down at Freshy Connection [the local ‘Kuranda Scenic Rail’ station, which includes a restaurant in which you dine in 85 year old ‘retired’ train carriages] we laughed and carried on in our carriage (had wine & mim & I had Kalua & milk) Caught a taxi after (all packing it) [the phrase “packing it” means “really nervous” – similar the phrase “packing shit” which relates to being ‘scared shitless’!!] But the guy at the entrance knew we were only ‘kids’ still we filled in forms [in those days if you didn’t have any ID, you simply filled in something like a statutory declaration before entering the establishment. Too easy.] with false names and addresses [that’s exactly what everyone did, and most likely the reason why it was abandoned eventually] and let us in…. there were only 11 people in there!! Martin G

[….here I had crossed over onto the next page (Thursday’s entry) in order to continue my story. This happened a lot in the future, when I didn’t fill out my diary until some time later – usually the next day – and had so much to tell…]

Thursday 26/6/86

said most had chosen Nighthawkes that night so when we were waiting for him & his (cute) friend to finish their drinks & take us there – up comes Mr W!! God help us!! [Hahahahahaha, That was SO funny. We were MORTIFIED!] He hadn’t told any parents but had been thinking ’bout it & decided he couldn’t take the responsibility in case we were found out. [He had knowingly allowed us to go in the first place] So we had to go. SHIT. Back at Lucy’s, we brooded about it, & stayed up till Brent and Martin G came over. (Told us how packed Nighthawkes was) upset us more, then we all stayed up til 3:30, talked, walked and sat on the gutter huddled up against the cold. Then we woke at 10:45 this morning & got out of bed at 3:00 to go grocery shopping with Jane & Lucy at Coles. Stayed at Lucy’s for tea then went to mima’s. Slept there (got to sleep around 1:30) Watched rock videos Ha! Ha!

Friday 27/6/86

Woke late again today, but not like yesterday! About 9:00 this morning I think. We watched music videos this morning after fully waking up. Lucy left early then after cleaning up, mima fi & I went home, when Justine turned up SHIT!! What the hell could I do? I talked (trying to lie about what I’d done (well, not try)) [I’m amazed that I felt I had to lie. Upon reflection, I wonder if it was because I so often felt left out of things myself, that I just assumed others felt the same too, and I couldn’t bear to hurt their feelings so chose to cover it up instead? Hmmm. I’ve definitely matured in this regard] Jemima & Fi went home and I went to town with Justine – it was boring. Saw Becca G & Anne Marie → they said Brizzy trip was a rage. Saw mima (didn’t see me) so I went home around 6:00. Fi & mima rang mark today while I was talking to Justine!! Shame! But he wasn’t home. I’m also doubting a bit→ could Greg have lied about Mark?? Hope not. And what does Steven B know? About 9:00?? [this last question is unrelated to the others – I would have been trying to guesstimate the time it was]

Saturday 28/6/86

Boring Boring Boring!!!! I spent the day at home. But thank goodness I didn’t eat so much!! I lazed around – bored shitless. Got over 9½hrs sleep last night – but will take more than that to get rid of these bags under my eyes!! Geoff, mum, Fi & I went to Drive In to see Police Academy 3. Was “fair” not as good as the others. Fi & I talked on the way home. she’s not sure but thinks Mark does like me ie: Greg told the truth (there are so many factors that point to that) Also said she’d try’n’ask Steven what he knows. Is 11:03. Sleep in tomorrow (my last time!) Also went shopping this morning. Got a grey shirt!! Hoping to bleach or fade it. And also make-up kit with blush & eyeshadow Green pink purple yellow brown blue white & dark grey UNREAL!! (Haven’t done a scrap of speech HW these holidays) UMAH

Sunday 29/6/86

Well, school tomorrow. I’m a bit nervous believe it or not. Today went rather slowly… it was boring too. I didn’t eat very much but what it was, I ate a lot of. No! I mean what I ate was fattening (and sickening) Oh dear me! It was so boring today that I have nothing to say. Nana came over. Julia (who spent last night with dad) was at work today. Is 10:16 → Trail of the Pink Panther will be finished soon. I can’t watch it – it’s too boring cos Peter Sellers isn’t in it anymore. I s’pose I’m also tired & kinda nervous about tomorrow. After all I haven’t been to school (& seen Mark) for 2 weeks …..

Talking Heads, Don Quixote & Cookaburra’s Corner (16-22 June)

Published on June 16, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 16/6/86

Woke a little later today… about 8:00 These late nights really make me tired. Today we went to the beach. I can’t believe how long this ‘stint’ is continuing [the continuous sleepovers: in the past our parents (collectively) hadn’t ever allowed this many consecutive sleepovers] Mima & Monique are staying tonight too. Mrs B drove us into the Gumtree Corner (after we’d cleaned up etc) where we caught the Northern Beaches bus to Trinity Beach. It was excellent. We sunbaked, swam (very little) and occasionally went to the shop to pig out [that i, stuff ourselves with rubbish]. Tim S was there with Gary & Chris C, Jason M, Rachel D & some others. He’s a reject [noun, negative connotation] (tried to get mima’s phone number…) went back to mima’s (caught bus to “Talking Heads” [one of the trendiest hair salons in Cairns at the time]) mima packed and Mrs B dropped us here. We got ready (& mucked around) then went to the Eisteddfod. Marge got 2nd hers was better tho, I think. Otherwise it was bloody boring. After we were to meant to catch a taxi home, but we all (M& H too) walked around looking for a cafe; were followed [?? by whom? what? I don’t know what I meant here] but soon found Don Quixote Really neat. Got home by taxi – just enough money. SUNBURN!! ouch

Tuesday 17/6/86

Woke rather early again. The beds I made up were bloody uncomfortable and slept badly. Today, Sharon rang. mima & monique went home around 10:30 the time sharon was going to come. Thank god she came after they went (I’d told her a stack of lies about what I’d been doing “lately”; she’s bitching about mima & monique especially) Anyway, we played monopoly rather boring and dragged out (esp. cos I lost) then ate big scrumptious lunch and went to shop to pig out. Sharon rode home around 2:00 (athletics training) I lazed round at home. Rang mima and she said we couldn’t really meet Lucy at the airport so around 5:00 Mrs B dropped us at Monique’s. Beautiful house and really great parents!! [Although I didn’t realise it at the time, this was the inception of a new and very special friendship for me. In the coming months, Monique & I became, as her parents even put it, “inseparable”. She was the first ‘best friend’ I’d since early primary school. My very own best friend, so I no longer felt I was playing ‘third wheel’ to Jemima and Fiona] Walked to vid. shop convinced monique not to get a horror [movie]. Another lateish nite again. Shit. I’m worn out! Has definitely not been boring Hols so far!!!

Wednesday 18/6/86

Woke fairly early (about 7:00) Boy was it good to sleep in a bed on my own for once!! We lazed round, reading etc and got ready to go to Earlville after bacon & eggs brekky. Almost got eyeshadows there, but couldn’t decide between 3 sets. After, went to town (mima was shopping for clothes for Japan) met Brent. Dropped monique home & my stuff home. Got out at Lucy’s; mim, Brent, me, Lucy & Beka walked up to mima’s and watched a video. Initially it was strange seeing Lucy again; didn’t know what to say! But was good – told her about Mark!! (she seemed “pleased” enough) Walked home. (Mum’s been sick – but is on the road to recovery and I think I have caught Julia’s cold) Fi came shopping today but stuck close to polly in fact did everything with polly. mima actually talked to me ’bout it on the way to her place (when no one else was there) she said what a bitch fiona was today [only words of hurt]. I’m thinking Jemima’s not so fussed on Fi anymore. [Just a phase. Teenaged girls!!] Clues (??) that she likes me more?? (than before) things like “Mark and Brent are good friends….” [which I don’t think was the case]

Thursday 19/6/86

Slept badly last night. Woke up all the time – throat extremely sore. Not quite as and now, but it’s definite that I have a cold. You can always tell – I start off with mucus→ sore throat from sucking it back → nasal congestion or “runniness”→ (perhaps) a cough. Woe is me! Sharon came round quite late this morning. We played monopoly again, had lunch then both had to relax. Sharon was sick (said she’d caught wog off boy over the road: they trained together) So we drove her home a lot later. Poor thing -she was quite pale. Wondering what Jemima did today was going to ring her, but never got round to it → also had sore (still have) throat so not easy to talk. wonder if she’s talking with Fi again. Also wondered [1] what Lucy did today, [2] when I’ll get my haircut, [and 3, when I’ll] go raging with Lucy & everyone etc 9:39 Uhoh! mucus again. Please God no!! When will I go to work?

Friday 20/6/86

Well, the sore throat is no more → now comes the nasal congestion and ‘tightness’ in the throat→ tendency to cough which makes me talk funny. (my voice that is) [Some – in fact many – would say I talk funny anyway. Now. I have a ‘distinctive’ (nasally) voice, I believe.] Today was my first really boring day of the holidays. Yes, I finally resorted to watching TV. Played cards with Julia. Looked at magazines Did everything “trivial” and totally boring. But, while cleaning (dusting) my furniture this arvy Lucy called and around 6:15 we went to dinner at Cookaburra’s Corner -new restaurant was alright→ fairly expensive. Had entree and main; couldn’t eat more so left early. Went back to Lucy’s for 1½hrs. Talked’n’watched TV. Cold seems to be getting better! (??) Julia almost went to court today about Jenny’s car crash last year. [?? I don’t remember anything about this either] She was a witness. 11:22. Wanna go out and rage. Gonna work tomorrow! 1st time in about 4 weeks!! UMAH!!!!

Saturday 21/6/86

Work! Yes! I worked! Believe it or not. I got there early but didn’t start work until 11:00 or so cos’ I spent time playing computer games on Dad’s new computer. Got $20 for (approx.) 5 hours work. And after; got home around 6:30 mum had gone with Geoff to the Clarkes for dinner (and Julia was gonna spend the night at dad’s) I rang Lucy she and Beka walked over & I grabbed some gear to stay the night after ringing mum about it. Went to Mr W’s girlfriend’s house for dinner then went straight to sleep once at ‘home’! Played a lot of cards!!

Sunday 22/6/86

Woke rather late (think I got almost 8-9hrs sleep!!) We had late brekky and just played cards’n’watched TV. I left just after 1:00 after we’d been to the shop (!!) Got ready for beach party back at home. (I ended up being too dressed up and split my white skirt→ so I borrowed Erica’s denim shorts) Was alright. Lotsa ‘couples’ – was depressing. But the fire and moon kept me dreaming. [You know the trance you can fall into when fire- or moon- gazing?] One time, Steven told Polly to say “Elissa, how’s Mark?” I said “who?” “Mark” “Mark who?” and Steven said “Good one Polly!” What does that mean? [I think it means you were being baited Liss] Does Steven know I like Mark or Mark likes me? How embarrassing. that got me wondering. I thought mark didn’t want anyone to know. Late nite after all. about 11:30. Maybe Mark told Steven at the dance maybe mark does want everyone to know [oh so innocent….naive!]

Stuck in the Mud & Love in the Air (9-15 June)

Published on June 9, 2014 by Elissa Coxen1 Comment

Monday 9/6/86

Woke at 7:15 (got 9hrs sleep) did my art, hung out the washing, made my bed, finished my art, cleaned my desk then 11:30 went to see mum. She had just gone into theatre [for the ‘curette’]. Geoff took us home, mucked around with Fiona & Christopher (F) & watched TV. Went to see mum again around 2:45. Boring! [This apparent ‘coldness’ towards my mother’s situation simply borne of a lack of understanding…which most children have. I completely empathise with my niece and nephew for their sometimes ‘naughty’ behaviour during the final weeks of my mum’s life: the poor kids were dragged to hospital EVERY day, so it would have been torturous for them, even though they knew ‘Nana’ was ‘very sick’…] Sat & read magazines etc. Went home, Geoff stayed. About 15 mins later mum rang and Geoff went to get her. Had pies for tea (after mucking around with Chris & Fiona again – playing stuck in the mud etc) [Old ‘Stuck in the Mud’! I’d forgotten about that game. Great physical exercise for kids…but I couldn’t remember the rules of the game, so Googled it for a reminder: Stuck in the Mud ] Is 9:11. I’m surprised at little amount I ate. School tomorrow Hip Hip Hooray! Dad came around to see how he’d set the Hash run (they’re gonna go through our yard & down the gully.) [In the Hash House Harriers, there’s a ‘fox’ who sets the ‘cross-country chase’ each time they run.] Dad & Sharon (when she rang) both asked about mum. I told them she was having an operation on her stomach. Hated lying to dad. [I’m sure he was told/found out in good time anyway and would certainly not have held anything against me for it.]

Tuesday 10/6/86

10:35. I’m not tired. Did no work today (except art.) Got test marks back. BIOLOGY I am so pleased I passed both exams – theory 80/110!! and prac – 50½/80. HOORAY! But, gulp, maths. I failed. 28½/70. My overall % was 47% still SA [‘Sound’ Achievement]. but still not good. I must do a lot more study for maths from now on. Art, I got 24/30, but sposed to add on 4 marks for something so I got 28/30. Got 20/30 for my problem – worst in the class. And 80% overall. Depressing – I could’ve got a VHA [Very High Achievement] if I’d done my problem better. Spent lunch hour in art rushing to finish my mural but alas & alack not quite → she marked it before that. I gave myself 43/50, Dunno what she gave me. But I spent rest of double period tryn’ to finish it. NOT QUITE. Went straight to mima’s this arvy. Made a cake & made masks for the dance→ mines orright not finished. MARK WAS AWAY so was Cameron McK; probly baseball.

Wednesday 11/6/86

Mark was barely there for the day. Saw him in the morning up till art. After that who knows? But he was at the dance…. Got 25½/50 for ENGLISH. I AM ECSTATIC!!! And 19/20 for my assignment!! Unreeeeal! [English turned out to be my best subject overall in senior high, which is kind of funny considering I was doing the special Art Course (CAD). Meant to be better at Art, you’d think…] Chemistry 49½/80 Pass by 9½. Pretty fair overall mark for semester was 59%. Boring day, really. After school, rushed down to Dunphy’s shop, mum got me & went into town (rang Mrs McM & skipped speech) Denim Jackets too small.. got a white small skirt from Sportique. & Mink hairspray [oh yes, the 80’s were definitely a decade of hairspray…in the same-but-different way from the 60’s..]. Rush at home wasn’t ready in time→ mum had to take me instead. OH well. At first didn’t think Mark was coming. But (my imagination of course) later on it appeared when Sharon & I went for a walk, him & greg k were following → probably cos of Sharon, not me. 12:40. Steven hit it off with Erica S (she’s not too sure…) ♥Mark♥

[I had detailed the dance in another notebook:] … Sharon & I went for a walk around the back of Croswell hall, and sat on the stairs around the other (unpopulated) side, to talk. then, Mark and Greg appeared…they’d followed us, we were certain; though I thought it was most likely for Sharon, I didn’t say. Really, I was hoping Mark was following me. When they saw we’d stopped and sat, they sort of hesitated for a moment then coolly walked past and around to the front of the hall. At another moment, they appeared to be watching again, as well. We’d decided to try and get up to request a song, so took the back stairs into the Hall. We hesitated at the top, outside, for some reason… the door was locked? And I glanced down and who should be standing below, looking up?

Thursday 12/6/86

Woe is me. Y’know about last nite→ supposed following by greg & Mark, well today Greg said (in 3rd or 4th period) “I know someone whose got the biggest crush on you.” I instantly thought of Mark. My attitude was kind of “brushed off”. “Yeh, Yeh, Yeh….” He wouldn’t tell me. And it happened – I got my hopes up only to be let down. I pestered him in last period (in Biology, before, I was sure it was mark, he sat in front, but turned round to talk to Greg next to me) and he finally said… “Cameron K”. Shit. I mean I like Cameron a real lot→ my best male friend – but I said “bullshit.” Perhaps Greg was lying. Seemed like Mark was paying abit more attention (i.e. looking at me more!) to me today. Ha! Wish 9:35. Mark you spunk Don’t you like me too? Not really cold winter weather Damn! Quite warm actually

Friday 13/6/86

I felt sick when I left for school this morning. Had a feeling it’d be a bad day. But it wasn’t so much that → more “spectacular”. I felt very uncomfortable around Cameron (Mark came very late & I only saw him for a very little while all day) went to hall watched choral music practise (Mark played volleyball) then went to civic centre (got in free (lucky) fi didn’t) CHS got one 1st & a 2nd. Then back at school Sharon Monique & I watched volleyball (Mark must’ve gone→didn’t see him at all after that) sharon dragged Greg over to the trampolines (I’d told her my “prob.” on way back from Civic Centre) And she squeezed the truth out of him. Took me (& Monique) outside. “MARK HAS LIKED YOU EVER SINCE YOU CAME TO CAIRNS HIGH!!” I AM ELATED! He was too shy to ask me to dance at the dance in case I’d say no & too shy to talk in case I’d ignore him MARK LIKES ME!!!!! Said he couldn’t wait till Angie’s party to talk to me!! LOVE! Rang Beka this arvy too. Went to go to Croc. Dundee. Spent about 2hrs in town but movies were booked out – Julia & Cherie got in tho. also went to Coles but couldn’t see Mark anywhere. Also poor mima got shocked today. At civic centre Brent & Cameron wrote notes to each other mima read one & went hysterical, cried & left school caught town bus home. [I have no idea now what that was all about…]

Saturday 14/6/86

Well this morning I didn’t do much.. Jules & I had a lip sync competition [we loved our music!], then I attempted to wax myself. At first it didn’t work (too much bloody wax) then (I got cranky) it did (but not completely) I also sunbaked when mima rang. Then I packed and went to her place. Watched the end of a really “hacked” [hmmm, don’t recall using that descriptive much, so can only guess at it meaning something like “not good”!] movie (on video) then “mucked around”. Got ready for the movies (Hoped Mark’d go…) Saw Youngblood and it was excellent. After walked to “Sly Cones”, where we waited (well we kinda went for a walk) till the B’s (Mr & Mrs) came.. After an ice cream, Polly, Monique, mima & I went back to Brewers. (Are all – mima monique & I) gonna sleep in one double bed – Ha!!) Laughed a lot before going to sleep/ mima’s made up with Brent (kind of… still unsure) And I CAN’T STOP THINKING ABOUT MARK!!

Sunday 15/6/86

That was the worst night’s sleep I’ve had in ages!! Barely any room at all!! Had to wake early for the door knock appeal – got in there early. First area was Manunda. Not too good. Mooroobool was a bit better but Bayview Heights was the same as Manunda. Went had so many encounters with dogs.. it was unbelievable!! [A great example of how they are great thief deterrents] Also heaps of people who pretended they weren’t home – when the house was open & unlocked etc. [I recall us doing that once or twice with mum but hiding from bible-bashers rather than charity door knockers] But overall, our team (car – Mr B., Polly, anna, fi, jay, brent, me, monique, mima, sharon) raised $450 overall. Not bad but not the best either. Oh well! After, we wanted to get back & have a shower before the BBQ but Mr & Mrs B were gonna stay so we got [a different] Mrs B to drop us back. Got ready & mum & Mrs W dropped us all back in (to a house in Richardson St) near kind of to mark’s street McManus. That was so bloody boring. Went home really early. Mr & Mrs B stopped at Banks’s for coffee so we took the house key and walked back. There (anna polly sharon monique mima & I) listened and mimiced sings on Take 40 Aust. Another late nite!! in the bloody double bed again