My Diary – Page 18 – A Life in Words

Year 10 Begins (28 January-3 February)

Published on June 11, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 28/1/85

Boring day today. Wasn’t hot. A little rain. Poured last night. Woke 7:00. Watched cricket (day match) after playing records. Wrote out my thank-you notes. Didn’t eat too much. Will have a late night. Julia is gonna be rushed tomorrow because she’s staying at dad’s tonight. Experimented with make-up & also went over exercise plan for school days. School. What a depressing word. In Jodie’s letter I asked if she got Andrew’s or George’s (or both of their) autograph’s & if she did, she wouldn’t mind sending me Andrew’s? [My cousin must have seen Wham! in concert. Living in Sydney she had a lot more opportunity to see international acts. Cairns didn’t – and still doesn’t – manage to score many of those.] Haircut tomorrow. Last day Tomorrow. Why???

Tuesday 29/1/85

Well, this was it. My LAST DAY of Bliss!! I woke quite early & completed the (my) new exercise plan – an extract from an old Women’s Weekly. “Victoria Principal’s Lifetime Plan for keeping fit.” [Victoria Principal took over from Jane Fonda in the celebs-as-fitness-professionals game. She was best known for her role in the TV serial “Dallas” – which I wasn’t allowed to watch by the way] I started it yesterday & felt a little ill after it again, today. Julia came home, but was gone 10 mins later. She’s in 8b!! I woz in that in Year 8!! She has lots of friends with her – Katherine W, Melissa B, Brendan S, Andrew F & Yuri K. Today, I accompanied mother to town. Got my dolly & the Wham! poster!!!! Lazed in the arvy. Am a little worried about tomorrow

Wednesday 30/1/85

Wasn’t bad at all! No rush or panic or over-excitement when getting ready. I am in Form 10J with Fiona, Rebekah & Justine. Know why? All the above-average kids (or most of them) are in a our form. Yes, that’s Angela R, Natasha W & Rebecca P, too. I hate it in a way – we might get our “goody-goody” label back. [I don’t know whether ‘we’ actually were considered “goody-goodies” (geeks) by others, but this was my self perception, and I held this belief for most of my time at Smithfield High.] Also, I think Sean has left. wasn’t here & I didn’t hear his name called out (I don’t think) in the forms. Got Mr Van Slooten for form, english & history. Today was boring. Just talking (Mr VS) all day. Got home & relaxed. Early-ish night. early tea. Will ask Sharon M if Sean has gone.

Thursday 31/1/85

Today was hot. More boringness – ¾hr parade in the sun. Couldn’t see Sean. I think I do still like him, cause I miss seeing him around. Got Mr Howard for science again this year (in a way I’m glad) Ms Bowelles for PES. Mrs Anderson again for art (good.) Mr “Way” for maths. He’s funny. Ms Stevenson for BP – she can’t control our class. Mrs Westerwald for German again. Today Shelley D came up to me (us) & began talking (at first about my hair) I think she likes us or pitys us for being in a “special” form. Very early night cos’ nothing on TV. Wanna get a new bag, mine’s too big. Chaotic today – all grades were back.

Friday 1/2/85

Did ask Sharon today. She said she thinks Sean’s still on holidays. But she sounded positive!! Extra hot today. Am boiled right now! Will have to get all my books this weekend, as most of my teachers wanted to begin work today. In PES, started gymnastics – rolls! Forward, straddle, back rolls & I didn’t wear any bummies!! SHAME!! FLASHES!! [In case you missed my previous description, ‘bummies’ were a piece of athletic clothing for girls that actually looked similar to Bridget Jones’ giant undies, but not flesh-coloured. They were worn over underpants, but under your sports skirt – unless you were a true athlete in which case you wore them alone.] with nothing In period 5, had sports team meetings for swimming carnival. (Jules is also in Trinity!) I’m not in anything. I hate exposing my figure! When got home this arvy, mum wasn’t home. That got me cranky’n’since Jules has her periods, she’s hostile too, so we fought all arvy – really bad.

Saturday 2/2/85

BLUELIGHT TONIGHT!! Hope I see Sean! What will I wear? Ended up wearing (borrowing) Fi’s black’n’white striped jacket. With that, wore my black skirt & belt, white shoes & lime T-shirt. Lace in one pocket & lots of things cluttering my wrists (like Madonna.) Today read, before going shopping to get school books & other stuff. At home, covered my books & watched TV until went up to Fi’s to get her shirt. Got home & prepared for Bluelight. HATED this Bluelight, tho’ I saw Sean quite alot. (Thank God) Well poor Justine & I had to dance with these hoony guys which scared the bog outa me, then this guy Neville hangs around; likes me. I don’t like him – Beka does. I ended up lying, saying I had a boyfriend in Brisbane etc etc & that Beka liked him ALOT so he danced with her the rest of the night. Fi has a new boyfriend. Greg K. he’s nice, suits her! & Liam & Adam G. were almost bashed up!.. I didn’t like it at all.

Sunday 3/2/85

Today woke early-ish, set out to do HW & book covering, but found I kept thinking too much about last night (which made me sick) so I read all day, to keep me occupied. I hate it – I always attract the wrong guys. Ate quite little today, surprisingly. Is rainy & cool. Want to do my homework now, but also want to have an early night. I can’t wait for school, now. Want to see Sean & forget last night. SEAN!

Hormones & Accused of Theft (21-27 January)

Published on June 10, 2013 by Elissa Coxen3 Comments

Monday 21/1/85

Today woke 7:30. Rang Dad. He said he’d pick me up, but be late. When he came, stayed for coffee, while I dressed & gathered my gear. Started cleaning drums 9:30. Finished After lunch – 1:30. Did 75; 25c per drum = $18.75. Then at 2:00, did 2hrs labelling work = $8. Total – $26.75. Had BIG lunch! Mum came & took us home at 5:00. At home, relaxed. Mandy & Bill came & looked at the house. Heath is bigger & more beautiful, now! After they, left, had a bath (scrubbed chemical-free!) [shudder to think about all those chemicals I was exposed to now…] dins & watched TV all night. Am gonna watch “Dick Emery Show” soon. Geoff had a haircut. Skint! [Skint: the replacement word for ‘shame or embarrassment’. I have no idea how this word, which actually means “lacking funds” came to be used in this context. Unless someone decided lack of ‘face’ (as in ‘losing face’) was an acceptable ulterior meaning?] Rang mima. She forgot to ring

Tuesday 22/1/85

Today was hot because spent most of it out of the house. Woke 7:00 to the sound of a bobcat. Our yard is now quite very level!! Today went to town with mim & Jules. Took my $20. Looked around town for shorts. A few good options, but I didn’t buy. Was upset, [in other words, threw a tantrum] so mum (after getting petrol) drove us out to Earlville, where I finally bought a pair of yellow shorts $9.95 from ambition & a$5 lime green T-shirt from Rockman’s. On the way home, treated me & Julia to a choccy eclair & cream bun (for jules). At home, drew & mucked around. Nana then Petra came. We played cards. She went home. Watching “Prophecies of Nostradamus” [Aha! There it is. This was not the first time I had watched a documentary about the ‘great prophet’…I was fascinated by him or rather, his predictions.] Is eerie. Scares me.

Wednesday 23/1/85

In the bath last night, I cut myself twice with a stupid razor & gave up shaving. In bath just cried & cried for no reason. Kept saying “why me? why me?” Haven’t cried for ages…….[This kind of stuff happened on occasion. With hindsight, I would put it down to those wild teenage hormone fluctuations.] Today, thought I slept in, but woke at 7:30. Went to do grocery shopping & I spent $5 dollars “click” just like that! Bought iced doughnuts. Sickly’n’fattening. After, Petra & Anette M. came around. Later Margie. We just played cards all arvy. Had to get ready to go to Nana’s. I stalled. Rang mima. She wasn’t there. Pol answered. 5mins later she rang me. Not allowed to go to Green [Island]. Her mum said “why pay to get burnt?” Nana minded us while mum was at a National Trust Meeting.

Thursday 24/1/85

Today, Julia woke me at 6:30, to tell me that Oikaze (our biggest goldfish) was dead. [Interesting name…I wonder where we got that from? I don’t remember it at all] Got ready early for Brewers to take me to the beach (Trinity Stinger Net) Was fun there. Did not stay long at all. Went for a 20min walk, 20min swim then walked to the shop for an iceblock, where Mr & Mrs B. picked us up. Went back to mim’s. Spent all afternoon in the pool! Estimated 6hrs swimming today! Came home & ate. Had a long bath, to soothe the ole’ sunburn. Just watched TV. Rang mim 8:30 Are going to movies tomorrow. I must also get a haircut & Kevin Shorey will teach me to change my earrings correctly.

Friday 25/1/85

Mum woke us early. Dunno why but was too early cause was ready to pick up everyone at 8:00, when we were supposed to go at 9:00. Beka came, too. (Bitch) “The Last Starfighter” was a great movie!! Saw Liam & his friend, Adam. Also Toni & Angela Bitches, too. After, walked around all day. Boring! Got skinted 2 times. Williams the Shoeman I knocked over a shelf of shoes & in Sportsgirl I was accused of stealing. [I vividly recall this incident. I had found a dress I loved in a crowded rack of clothing on sale, and ‘hid’ it under another item of clothing on the same rack so that no one would potentially find my treasure & buy it from underneath me. As we all left the store, the manager came running after us & directed me back to the shop where she began her interrogation. I’m non-confrontational so was probably in shock at first but I recall professing my innocence and revealing the buried dress. I can’t remember if the others had come back in the shop as well or waited outside, but I was truly mortified and embarrassed – despite not being technically in the wrong.] BAD DAY. Got home around 5:00 Mum was at Freshy hairdressers. I couldn’t get in the house. Had a bath, watched TV & the movie. Was O.K. Julia went to the doctors yesterday ‘cos lately she’s been getting black marks on her pants. Dr D. said she has her PERIODS. [I truly thought my sister would not want this private information shared, so called her before transcribing, to check. She laughed her head off and said “I don’t care…it’s FUNNY!”]

Saturday 26/1/85

AUSTRALIA DAY. Had a dream about Andrew Ridgeley Last night – yes, the spunky partner to George Michael in Wham! It’s funny – I could actually see his features clearly. Normally you don’t see people’s faces, you just know they’re them in the dream. And now, when I look at the poster, I feel I know him thoroughly, like an old friend (I think I love him.) I’m nuts. [You said it!] Today, mum went to the Cairns City Place for the Aussie Day Celebrations. I went to Fi’s, then mim’s at 10:30. Watched “Sahara”. Lazed around until Glenn came. Went to the spare block on the top of Blue Hills Cres. Liam & Adam came up. After, went to Fi’s, then Freshy Creek, then the spare block again. After, went home. Clarke’s came for drink. early nite

Sunday 27/1/85

Woke late, lazed around. Got 10-11 hours sleep last night. Good, huh?! Went to Tinaroo Dam today. Invited mim & fi. Laughed & talked on the way up. When got there, saw Rachel & Kate C. Felt the water. Went & sat in car, mim read while fi & I changed radio stations looking for good songs. Had lunch then continued in the car. Was windy & overcast, but eventually decided to swim. Strong rip in the dam, but had great fun. Was freezing out of water. Packed up when got out & went to a ‘maze’. [I only vaguely remember this maze, and have no idea where exactly it is/was. If anyone else can recall it, please let me know.] Was treadly. Got lost, but eventually got out. Really dudish! [Another new word! I don’t even remember this one. I can only guess that it’s another word for …cool?!] After, went to a pub, but we still sat in the car. Laughed had fun on way home. Early night again.

Rain, Puzzles & Crusher Dust (14-20 January)

Published on June 9, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 14/1/85

Woke quite late cause I had another late nite. After reading for awhile, left for mima’s where fi & I ducked to fi’s then back. Finally, we were ready to go to town. In town, saw hardly anyone except David D. (blech) wonder if he still likes me? Was hot & exhausting in town today. Got home at 5:30. Just read the Smash Hits magazine (which I bought for Jules). Had a small dinner and an early-ish nite. Is overcast now – now raining: hope we get a good flood. Rang 4AM this morning. Bluelight:- 2nd Feb

Tuesday 15/1/85

Has been raining all day. I think we are in for a flood (I hope) It is much cooler now. Today woke at 7:00, then decided to go into work and earn some money. When Jenny dropped Julia back here – she had been at Dad’s Last nite & the night before – we set off. Once at Dad’s I felt no more like working. [So fickle!] So As Mum had an appointment with the bank manager, Julia & I went to Earlville & browsed. Got home at Lunchtime. Yard & carport are flooded But later Mr F. lent a hand in digging drains. Just lazed about all arvy. Am having an early nite.

Wednesday 16/1/85

I’ve been thinking about people who don’t like me. You know who they are, but I now know for sure that Beka hates me. Before we went to see ‘Ghostbusters’ Fi asked Beka what was wrong, I moved away & Beka said, “I can’t stand Elissa.” I hate you , too, Rebekah!! [Clearly this had been weighing heavily on my mind, since it’s the second time I’ve recounted the story] Today it did not cease raining for one second!! Pouring or sprinkling all day! I just wrote out (began to) my 1984 diary. It’s too messy to read, all squashed up in that planner. Petra, Auntie Leonie & Nana visited today. Jules is at Petra’s tonight. TV is bung. Mrs B.’s Birthday!

Thursday 17/1/85

Sun; I don’t believe it! It has finally stopped raining but now it will become hot again. Today I continued on with writing out my 1984 diary before & after we got back from Town. Mum just paid bills & got our address changed at various places. I went back to Kevin Shorey, finally. He put my proper earring back in. Seemed not worried about the earring & didn’t accept money for the disadvantage. Nice guy, eh? Petra came with us to town. I Bought a pair of white earrings ‘Button’ studs. Sorted out some junk before having a bath. Went to Di & Kerry’s for tea. Barbra & Darren are leaving tomorrow. Watched “We of the Never Never” (Again!)

Friday 18/1/85

Today was hot. Geoff was still here when I woke up. [Meaning: he stayed over and I disapproved.] Rang mima before going to town. She hasn’t found my copper bracelet yet. I also mentioned a trip to Green Is for, perhaps, Wednesday next week. After doing various things (getting Julia’s school shoes, port & blouses) went to Nana’s. Passed the take-away in the Plaza & two boys were there. One waved. I smiled & waved back! I have Confidence!! Got TV back, when got home. It was fixed for the 4th time, now. Lazed around at home. Did some puzzles in a puzzle book, made a pencil tin etc. Late-ish nite. Julia’s staying at Dad’s tonite & tomorrow night

Saturday 19/1/85

Today was boring. Woke around 7:30. Did some puzzles in the puzzle book, then had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After more puzzles, I continued writing out my 1984 Diary. Played records all day. Mum cleaned paint spots off the louvres. Had a pie & sausage roll for lunch today. Mr F. gave us some (a lot) fine gravel to even up the ground. Mum & I levelled it out, while a big thunderstorm passed quickly. Mum kept up until the whole 1st pile was gone. We just had baked beans for tea. Late night. Am about to watch the movie. Night, night!

Sunday 20/1/85

Movie went on for years!! Got to sleep about 12 last night. Woke at 9:45!! Yes!! I slept in!! Was tired today. Ate like a horse. Continued on with rewriting diary. Made lotsa mistakes. Wore an old, ripped petticoat today & that red & white polka dot blouse which I cut the sleeves off. I cut off the collar, & wore it as a hair ribbon/tie. [Ever the fashionista. And oh, those scissors again, that mum hated me touching…] Watched cricket, too. Australia was put to shame again by the Windies. We lost by 65!! Rang mim tonight. Going to think about Thurs. for our Green Is. trip. She’s gonna ring me back tomorrow night. Going to work tomorrow. Feel guilty about how much I ate today!!

Memories of Poo & Dead Pets (7-13 January)

Published on June 8, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 7/1/85

Was our last nite. Tonight are staying in the house in the dark – bar 4 or so candles. Fiona did not call back last night. (I stayed up late to watch the movie) Neither did she call today. I think it was Mr D.’s fault. He has a poor memory (so Fi says.) Today was busy. What with carrying the last few loads to the house, then scouring out the flat, to make it shiny & clean (as possible). [One of my favourite stories relating to this exercise was mum’s experience of cleaning out the toilet; she discovered something that had hitherto been imperceptible to us all – that the result of my grandmother’s daily explosive bowel movements (with thanks to regular consumption of Epsom salts) – had somehow lightly spattered the walls. Mum, Julia and I were in absolute stitches!] There are some boys who have moved in where Diane W. used to live. They whistled (well, one did, I think he’s 15 or so, not bad looking. I’m writing by candlelight.

Tuesday 8/1/85

Last night while having our Kentucky Fried Chicken the Skinners came to the Fishers. Skint!! Me in my frilly nightie!! I don’t think we are gonna get our bond money ($200) back – Today was hot, but quite a lot cooler in the house. In the morning FNQEB & Telecom came so we now have electricity & a ‘phone! Rang Fiona around 6:15. Had to ring back 15 mins later. When she answered, she was bright & chirpy and didn’t at all sound guilty about not ringing back Last Thurs. Are both coming tomorrow. Petra came up after lunch & is sleeping. She has given us 3 goldfish, from their pond. Hope they don’t die. [Our track record with smaller pets wasn’t too good. Mutliple fish had died in our care, most often jumping out of tanks when we weren’t around to put them back. One summer we accidentally killed a pet budgie by leaving its cage in the garage on a day that temperature soared. We came home to find it on the bottom of the cage with its eyes hanging out of its head. Terribly upsetting. We have had much more success with dogs as pets.]

Wednesday 9/1/85

Had a late night last night. Ate ice-cream as a midnight feast. Were sprung! This morning, playing cards with Jules & Petra when Fiona & Jemima came. Got a photo frame from Fiona (brass) & notebook, room card (vacant or home) & sticker from mima. Then went to mim’s for a swim. WAS STINKIN’ HOT TODAY! After a quick swim, danced to Madonna (great exercise) then we had to go home cause mim had to go to art classes at 1:30. Fi rang when I got home. We went to shop & looked at new railway [‘Freshwater Connection’] I came home & went to the dentist. Very quick tightening. Came home & relaxed.

Thursday 10/1/85

Jemima & Fiona asked me if I’d like to see ‘Ghostbusters’ with them tomorrow. I think they do like me; they are trying to start afresh. Being as best, best friend to me as possible. Today, mainly waited for mima/fiona. Woke quite early after a late night, then went out to do some things before lunch (getting things for the house) then just read, played cards, ate & lazed around all afternoon. I rang mim & fi about 20 times, finally mim answered. She couldn’t stay tonight but I was to go to her house at 8:30, along with Fi & Beka to catch the 9:00 bus.

Friday 11/1/85

After a late night last night (10:30) woke at 7:00 & began the rigmarole of deciding what to wear to the movies. Actually it was easy. Got to mime’s a little early, but got going (Polly, Beka, Fi, Mim & Me) at 8:45 When got in to town, got off near Coles & bought our “supplies”. Got a seat in the theatre (by the look of the que, didn’t think there’d be any room). Glenn came.. Ghostbusters was terrific! No other word to describe it. After, walked around town then took bus to mim’s at 2:00 Swam all arvy. Wanted to sleep somewhere but weren’t allowed. Had to go to Yacht Club for tea.

Saturday 12/1/85

Quite a late night last night as well (10:30). Have decided to sleep at Fi’s tonight, in the garden, under a tarp… Hope we’re allowed tonight..!! Got to Fi’s at 9:00, she only just got out of bed! When mima came, we played cards till Lucy came at 10:00. Then walked (after lunch) to mima’s got her stuff, walked to my place (stayed for lunch) walked back to fi’s. Set up the tent. Looked like it would rain but did not. Rebekah came late. Fiona told me what Beka was upset about before ‘ghostbusters’ – she didn’t know I was coming – she “can’t stand Elissa.” Stupid bitch. Lucy was bitchy too.

Sunday 13/1/85

Last night got to sleep around 2:00. Had 3 smokes only for fun, ate & played cards. Have a sore throat. Have had it since I woke at 8:00 this morning. [Not the ‘fun’ smoking the night before, poten After clearing up, we all decided to go Freshy for a swim. Was cool & overcast. Lotsa guys None spunky (x-ept one) who, from a distance, looked like Sean (my spunk) on our way back (Lucy was picked up) these “toughies” wanted us to come back & swim. We didn’t – who would. Then, came to my place. Lazed about, Beka left, lazed about, went to shop, picked up mim & fi’s gear. Late nite AGAIN!

Resolutions & A Brand New Home (1-6 January)

Published on June 7, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

This piece of handiwork actually appears in the final pages of my 1984 diary but I decided it would be a fitting introduction to this post.

Tuesday 1/1/85

Well, hello ’85! I’m afraid to admit I made a bad start to the year, but I intend to correct myself. Today, after writing yesterday’s diary, got ready to go to bed (it was about 12.30) when Peta & Marney came. They had been at someone’s house & were late cause their car was pranged. We walked down the road (all of us, parents too) & swam at these people’s pool. Got to sleep 4:30. At about 10.30 got to Barbra’s for brunch. Boring day. Made tea tonight. Am tired.

Wednesday 2/1/85

I had no room yesterday to mention my Resolutions. So here they are –

Fit and healthy (exercise & healthy diet)
Gain Confidence (rid of my shyness) and in smaller print: (mainly towards boys)
Be Nice to Everyone (helpful & kind to mum & everyone)

Today woke up worrying about mum’s red, black & white bikinis. I lent them to Peta when we went to those people’s place. I rang dad (cause Robbo’s have left for New Z.) He said he’d drop in to those people’s place & get them for me. Today packed my clothes into my chest of drawers. We are moving about Saturday! Early nite; so tired.

Thursday 3/1/85

Yesterday in cricket, Aussies won the 5^th Test against Windies! They broke the West Indies record of wins in 27 tests! Aussies strike again! We mustn’t be that bad a team after all! But today, got positive news about the house. Water is running & we will start moving out tomorrow. Tomorrow night will (unless there are sudden problems) be our last nite in the flat. This morning rang fi to ask her to come down & open her xmas prezzy. Said she’d ring back – she didn’t. Petra came over at lunch. House was a big mess while we tried to sort out bits’n’pieces.

Friday 4/1/85

I think I’ll tell you now – I love this day-to-a-page diary. It beats squeezing in the day’s happenings into a calendar planner!! Today was the hottest day ever!! I woke up & got brekky then felt wet under my arms. But, I didn’t feel it much later. I spent most of the day cleaning out & packing up things in Nana’s room (the coolest room), then when Petra came up after lunch, we went to tidy up the house. We swept it all up (the dust & dirt) & took out all the sawhorses, wood , & tools etc. Came home & had shower. Am now ready to go to Diane & Kerry’s for tea.

Saturday 5/1/85

Late night last night. I think I might have only gotten 8hrs at the most!! Was alright (the BBQ tea). Diane’s (& Geoff’s) sister, her husband & her son were there. I used her son (13) as practice on my confidence. I did well, I thought, but I was still not talking. We had to play doubles in a tennis game. I should have talked then. Today was hot. Last nite was not our last night in this flat. The electricity hasn’t been turned on so we can’t of course, move in. We think tomorrow night will be the last night. Today we just shifted 9/10 of our belongings & furniture up – was tired out. Diane & Kerry came for a drink (& everyone else) HOT!

Sunday 6/1/85

Gosh, this flat looks empty now. You can even hear an echo in the rooms when you speak. I’ve been thinking about Fiona & Jemima a lot lately, wondering if they like me at all. They must have enough patience to put up with me all this time. I wonder if they’re always deliberately trying to hurt me. I don’t think they like me at all. Why me?? What’s wrong with me that I can’t get them as best friends? It’s not fair. Nobody likes me. It’s around 7.45 now. I rang Fi to ask her again if she was going to collect her Xmas presents She hasn’t rung back yet. Today was boring. Just unpacked. The water pipe has a leak. Think tonite is our last night here.

Farewell 1984 (24-31 December)

Published on June 6, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Here’s your “Bumper Christmas Issue”! Just over a week’s worth of entries to round off the year cleanly (I do have some OCD tendencies) including a christmas present list and the emotional musings I randomly scribbled in the final pages of the diary. Enjoy…

Monday 24/12/84

Woke late again. Did nothing till 11:00 when (after shaving cream, towel & water fights) went & delivered some chemicals. Stayed at Keane’s for a drink then after lunch at Jenny’s came home, watch TV & had quite a late night.

Tuesday 25/12/84

CHRISTMAS DAY. Woke early & tried unsuccessfully to sleep in. Dad came & we opened our presents. Wasn’t too happy with all of them. (the list of things is on the 3rd last page of this book.) [I have photographed said page but also transcribed it for ease of viewing, below. In defence of my ‘ingratitude’ with regard to gifts received, it actually stems from an inherent abhorrence of Waste. It upset me that people wasted their money on something I didn’t want, would never use/wear. This kind of sentiment underlies the anti-materialism attitude I developed in later years. Suffice to say, my ingratitude became an indelible mark on me, because my father & stepmother still bring it up on the odd occasion…] After Dad, Jacki, Jenny & Anthony left, went to a Xmas (dinner) lunch at Dianne & Kerry’s. Came home early & watched TV. Went to bed at 10:20 but just couldn’t get to sleep.

MUM – nothing, but I understand our/her financial problems

DAD – other ½ of bike!! silver chain bracelet

JULIA – lemon yellow jewellery stand [which was actually a kitchen cup/mug holder!]

NANA – lead pencils, rubbers, ruler, sharpener, soaps, diary-type book, school sox & a writing set/paper [a very typical style of gift from my grandma. I’m surprised there weren’t any handkerchiefs as well]

PAPA – big yellow beach towel

GEOFF – $25 voucher for Sportsgirl

JENNY & CO – eyeshadow

JODI & CO – baby pink shirt, $10 & 1 (crappy) ←(naaaah!) make up set

PAM & CO – bright necklace

BEV & CO – bright bracelet/bangle & nailpolish

DIANE B. & CO – blue & yellow polyester/cotton mini-dress

MRS M. – pen & watch set

MANDY & CO – one strap T shirt

Wednesday 26/12/84

BOXING DAY. Went to Robinson’s for a Christmas drink & ended up staying all day. Watched a video, played pool (Billiards or whatever) when they dropped us home, we gave them a tour of the house. The Skinners were at the Fishers. Had an early-ish night.

Thursday 27/12/84

With Geoff’s Sportsgirl voucher, Jules mum & I went into town & got some gear. I bought a hot pink singlet with Sportsgirl written on it & a red & white striped Tshirt with a collar & front buttons. Julia bought a pair of white shorts, a white Tshirt & a red cap. At home, mum ironed while Jules & I played records. Went to Clarke’s for a Christmas drink, ended up staying for tea. Got home about 11:30.

Friday 28/12/84

Woke early & went to work. Finished all the remaining drums (67 = $14.50) then dad said he’d pay me $4 per hr for labelling drums. I did 3hrs so my day’s total was $26.50. After, went to shipyard – wharf saw Glenn & Lynn C. for drinks

Saturday 29/12/84

Woke early-ish & went to Earlville. Looked around for a while but finally bought a neat pair of white with pink pinstripes shorts, a 1985 diary, record “Make It Big” by WHAM! and the January “Dolly”. Went to dad’s after lunch. That night Jenny, Julia, Dad & I went to drive-In. Gonna see “Muppets Take Manhattan” at the cinema but at Drive In, saw Footloose & “Indiana Jones & the Temple of Doom” Were both terriffic.

Sunday 30/12/84

Went to Gordonvale to deliver some products today then spent the rest of the day at Peta & Marney’s. WAS VERY HOT.

Monday 3/12/84

Well it’s about 12:10, so I shouldn’t be writing in this diary. I dunno why but I’m extra sad this year. When I mentioned I forgot my 1985 Diary to Dad my eyes began to water. Luckily no one saw. Today, I mean ‘yesterday’ Dec. 31 I just read books all day. We had a New year’s Eve Party at Dad’s. I don’t know why I’m so emotional. Last year wasn’t my favourite year.

It wasn’t a very good year at all.

On the inside back cover of the diary I had written the following:

at the top, and at the bottom:

Christmas Shopping (17-23 December)

Published on June 5, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 17/12/84

Went to town with Justine at 12:00. S’posed to try to buy some shirts – couldn’t find any. Got Julia’s chrissy present also got some pale pink nail polish, grey eyeliner, 3 butterfly hair clips (1 4 me, other 2 for mim & Fi’s chrissy prezzys.) Julia found her present tonite. Stupid bitch. I’ll have to refund/change them now.

Tuesday 18/12/84

Julia has some sort of wog, Poor girl. I went to work for dad. Cleaned drums and earned $20!! [Some of the work I did for my father would be illegal in this day & age. My primary job was to wash out 10 litre cube drums that had had chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, ammonia, sodium hypochlorite with a hose, for recycling. No protective clothing, footwear, gloves, eyewear or respiratory masks. OH &S and Risk Management were non-existent in the ’80’s] Oh! I forgot tot tell you yesterday I finally put up the christmas decorations! After I’d come home from town that is.

Wednesday 19/12/84

Went to see “Gremlins” with mim, fi, polly & anna. stayed in town after. Got Geoff’s Julia’s & Dad’s presents (couldn’t refund Julia’s records.) Nana left for Sydney today so I didn’t have to get her a present after all. Thank God! I can’t afford any more!

Thursday 20/12/84

Worked at Dad’s again today. Was quite hot. Am tired. (I earned exactly $20 & a pair of sunburnt thighs!)

Friday 21/12/84

Spent the whole day at Earlville with Julia. Got mum’s, Jodie’s, Michael’s, mim’s & Fi’s prezzys. Have no money left but no more presents to buy!! At home, I wrapped them all.

Saturday 22/12/84

IS SO HOT!! Lazed around today. Finished wrapping all prezzys then watched TV all day. Ate too much. Going to dad’s tomorrow.

Sunday 23/12/84

Woke late, actually. Can’t believe I have not woken up before 7:00 one day of the holidays so far! Packed bag & watched TV till dad came. Julia went with Jenny. 10 min delay at Oak Beach. A van had rolled no one was hurt, tho. Just watched TV at Jenny’s.

Last Week of Grade 9 (10-16 December)

Published on June 4, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 10/12/84

HOT got home at 6:45, to our flat at 7:40. Got to 1st busstop & saw the bus. Panicked but found out that the bus always sits at the stop if its too early. In double BP, had to move typewriters to L7/8. Heat! But at little lunch a giant downpour & wind cooled off. Not hungry tea & toast brekky, choccy thickshake lunch cereal for arvy tea & 2 sausages & sultanas for tea. Sean M. is a spunk. I think he’s terrifically good-looking. Hope he’s seen me. [Meaning, I hope he’s noticed that I exist] Can’t wait for the excursion tomorrow. Maybe something good will happen…?

Tuesday 11/12/84

Alright. Hot on bus, headache at Brewery. (also a free soft drink!) 1hr at the esplanade, then got bored at the Waterworks. Sean didn’t go on the slides. Kept my eyes open – scanning, but found he spent most of his time on the video games. Hunky, brown trim body. Went to Fi’s tonight while Julia went to her Presentation/Disco/Graduation Night. Late nite. Lysarne P. won the “Citizen of the Year” Award. Jules had been working hard to get that one & bitch features won it. [My opinion of that entire family was evidently tarnished following the attack her mother made on ‘us’ in the previous week]

Wednesday 12/12/84

Boring day. Did nothing in most classes. Di & Kerry are minding us. Watched “Superman” It finished around 12:00. Got to bed about 1:00

Thursday 13/12/84

Great day!! Big bludge. At lunch there was a cricket match – YR8 & teachers vs Yr9. Sean was in the team so I wanted to skip 6th & 7th periods but Ms Clayton kept a few of us in (me, of course) to polish desks & had to go to BP. Just bludged anyway (Talked) In both lessons ¾ of the class were absent. NOT FAIR

Friday 14/12/84

Am not excited, really. Today doesn’t seem as important as it was months ago, i.e. I wish it was still school. Why? Cos I won’t see Sean for 6 weeks, unless he goes to the Bluelight. In PES, sat with Tina, Shelley & Melissa in B4. Mr Martin’s science class was in B1 so I got to see Sean. Left school at 1:00 after a wierd form party & litter parade [enmasse student rubbish collection]. Bored at home. Going to Jay’s party at 6:30. Wish (He) was invited I [some indiscernible word] him. Party was different. Justine & I stayed by ourselves (I had the feeling Jemima was till angry with me) Mum came 2HRS late. (12:30) Anna knows I like Sean now – she thinks he’s up himself. I don’t!!

Saturday 15/12/84

Very boring day. Mum finished my orange skirt for the Bluelight. Looks great!! Can’t wait! Rang mim & apologized myself (Polly told me that was wat she was really waiting for) Fiona could have told me earlier. Bluelight – little boring, very hot. Saw Sean 3 times (very shortly) wearing dark coloured clothes.

Sunday 16/12/84

Hot & boring. Made some bikkies, Jules & I basked under the sun (& hose!) Got a little burnt here & there.

Bullying & a New Heart Throb (3-9 December)

Published on June 3, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 3/12/84

Maths was quite easy but I know I definitely have not got 100%. Science was ‘simple’ too but there were some questions and history too was easy but I didn’t know if I expressed myself correctly, in words. Otherwise, am pleased. Carol B. dropped mum’s plants over this afternoon. Had a late-ish nite & haven’t studied any BP …. UH-OH……..

Tuesday 4/12/84

I don’t think I did crash-hot. Around 55/65 I think I’ll get. Gave Rebecca P. more hell than ever today only to find her parents coming down to ‘scream’ at me. At first I packed shit, but then relaxed. Feeling guilty now about having to tell the ‘truth’ ie, naming mim & fi as some of the troublemakers. [I can’t remember exactly what kind of treatment we – because it certainly was not just me – dished up to this girl but it clearly affected her enough that her mother (I don’t recall her father being present at all – if he was, he was definitely silent the entire time) flew into protective mode and was on the proverbial Warpath. I remember standing on our drive-way with mum as Rebecca’s mother verbally let rip at me & my mother. No one in our family is confrontational and our usual reaction is one of shocked silence, so I can’t really recall our ‘defence’.] Early-ish night. Haven’t studied much art…

Wednesday 5/12/84

Art was easy. Got History back 44/50 I couldn’t believe it! I went from 63% last semester to 83% this sem! Not as good as I thought in science: 56/70 OH WELL! Everyone knows about the P.’s coming to see me now. She will cop more shit than ever, now. (Apparently her parents only came to blow me up. Said they were going to see everyone else but didn’t.) Mrs P., they’re all Bitches. Today (generally) was a bludge.

Thursday 6/12/84

Another Bludge. Am so glad exams are over! Got art back 37/40, same as last semester. Fran told Fi in their german class today what Rebecca P. actually yelled to me when we got off the bus. – “Poor Elissa, lives in a flat.” If her parents broke up, I’d like to see HER mum cope – OOH thats so mean. Makes me SOOOOO MAD. (Now everyone in the popular group knows). I think everyone does. [I have concluded that this girl’s parents (or parent, namely her mother) targeted me and my family simply because there was no ‘man’ around to defend us. In a pack of wild animals, I guess we would have seemed to be the ‘easy kill’?! They certainly did not confront any of the families of the other girls involved in the ‘bullying’ so in a respect, Mrs P. was a bully herself. With hindsight, it only serves to illustrate just how strong my mother was; to survive a marriage breakdown, work, build a house and rear two daughters. How can I not feel anything other than gratitude?]

Friday 7/12/84

Is BOILING the heat is suffocating. EVERYONE hates Rebecca P. Tina & everyone in the popular group talks to us more often now the others have left. I think I like someone else. I don’t think Mark is good for as SM would/could be. Tell ya who he is later … Late nite.

Saturday 8/12/84

God Sean is a spunk! I dreamt about him last nite (SM is Sean/Shaun M.) In 9G. Has been at Smithfield quite a while but I’ve only just woken up. I love ‘im! Was disappointed when dad rang to say we couldn’t go to work & had to go to Jenny’s. Went anyway. After shopping & housework (I got $5 for it!) went. Watched TV – very bored. Very late night.

Sunday 9/12/84

*Fuckin’ hot today. Naaah! Forget that* Just hot & boring. Late outta bed. After brekky, sketched & played chess till ’bout 5:00. Went to pub. Staying tonight.

Exams & Old Man Time (26 November-2 December)

Published on June 2, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 26/11/84

Quick day. Got December “Dolly”. Stayed in art all lunch hour. Hard in maths (got stuck in algebra) Have decided now to earn as much money as possible to spend on the Xmas holidays.

Tuesday 27/11/84

Another quick day. History assignment due Friday & I haven’t started, yet. Watched most of final part of “Bodyline”. Is an excellent series. So hot…. Nin came around for tea. BOOOORRING!! English Drama exam tomorrow. Am tired. Know I will not do well.

Wednesday 28/11/84

Another fast day. In fact the whole week is going fast! I s’pose old man Time knows I have exams & wants to make me suffer them sooner. (!!) Very hot. Hate Lucy, the bitch. Wouldn’t let me sit on the very edge of the seat on the bus. Greedy bitch. Just as bad as Justine’n’everyone else who I hate. [Whoa! Such strong words & intense feeling. Glad I’ve grown out of THAT.] Mandy & Bill are ‘minding’ us tonite while mum goes to a National Trust Meeting. English exam was quite easy but I didn’t have enough time, I thought.

Thursday 29/11/84

PE exam was HARD. Actually, I guessed most of it so I suppose I wouldn’t have done too bad. Am tired – my legs are aching (OH NO! NOT MORE GROWING PAINS?!!??!)

Friday 30/11/84

History assignment must be got outta the way tomorrow morning. YOU MUST STUDY, GIRLY. Today went quickly Was bored. Kept getting headaches similar to yesterday’s. Late-ish nite. Hope mim or Fi ring & ask me to study with them. Will be so much more fun. Hot-ish day.

Saturday 1/12/84

Rang Fi in morning after Mum went out and Julia left for the school’s mango stall by the polling booths. [This would have been at Freshwater State School, and it was for a federal election, the result of which returned Bob Hawke as Prime Minister for his second term] Left for Fi’s at 1:00. Went to mim’s at about 1:30. Went for a swim, then rode the motorbike to Fi’s and back. At home, Ben, Trent & Diane were here for tea. Had one hell of a late night. Today Mrs B., mima & Polly dropped in when only I was home to give Julia a brand new white jumpsuit. It didn’t fit Polly so Julia got it for FREE. I got to draw up an invitation for Stereo World Xmas Party. Hope she pays me!! NAH

Sunday 2/12/84

I showed the invit to Mrs B. & she gave me $5!! Went to mim’s around 10:30. Studied maths, had lunch, studied micellaneous, had a swim, study history. Mr & Mrs B. came home & Fi & I went. Had an early-ish nite.