puppy love – Page 2 – A Life in Words

Framing, Fraternising & Fantasising in the Final Week of Year 11 (24-30 November)

Published on November 24, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 24/11/86

A Life in Words — At Trinity Beach. not everyone is in this group pic but I love it because my bestie has her arm around me 🙂

I woke up and attempted to get another piece done. HA HA HA!! Then, we rushed in [to school I am assuming] & back, passing Monique & Thorstein & Justine [on their bikes] on the way (both ways). [We were all cycling to Trinity Beach, and ‘collecting’ people on the way… I think they were heading to my place, to pick me up next…] We left here late going straight past morris st – we thought they’d [I think referring to Jemima & Fiona] left. When we finally got to the beach, they, of course, weren’t there. So we waited (Thorstein had rung & found out they only just left) when they arrived so did Carla & Brent. We sunbaked (I didn’t get burnt – almost everyone else did! Very little fun though) and swam – my hair’s blonder tho! – [swam only] a little cos there were sea snakes. And we hired a cat. (Rage!) Rode home slowly stopped at freshy [Freshwater Creek our ‘local’] for a swim Pigged out – just a few chips, pita bread & yoghurt – cos’ I forgot my food today. All I’d had was (about) 4 cans Diet Coke. [OMG, that poison. I can’t believe how much of that stuff we used to drink. I just hope whatever damage we did by consuming it has been righted (healed) by now…] Now staying at Fi’s. Watching videos then riding to exam in morning. Ragey. Monique can’t get onto her father yet….

Tuesday 25/11/86

Boring. I saw him once, really briefly before exam – close, tho’. Last night we watched 2 videos, Polly, Kylie & Brent went home. Monique was exhausted [fell asleep, while] – mima fi & I stayed up till 2:00 talking & laughing. Uncomfortable sleep- got numb arm! Rode quickly to Monique’s when she got changed etc, rode to school. Saw Mark near my (in, at times) art room (exam room) Art was ‘easy’ but I stuffed it up. Got overall out of 70 mark – 59. Not good enough esp. for how I (might’ve) gone in my test. Got eng. 27/30!! Believe it!! I couldn’t! I thought I’d done really badly! Fi and I waited all the rest of the day till mime had done her choral exam. Had a good talk and etched our names in our area [vandals!]. Hot ride home. Am exhausted. Did no HW (HW? you say) Yes – exhibition works! [ART homework] Haven’t finished yet! Gotta get framed, too. Crikey! “Ohm!” meditation! Gammon [Oh if only I was actually serious about the meditation. For those who don’t know, ‘gammon’ in Australian slang (particularly common to indigenous Aussies) has negative connotations…implying what you said wasn’t true. Here, I’d’ve been thinking “meditation? AS IF! Duh, no way”] 8:30

Wednesday 26/11/86

Chem. Fail 34½/80, but I’m sure I found 9 marks which weren’t added on in process multiple choice Q’s. I PASSED MATHS!! By 2½ marks! 32½/70 … gone up 9% this sem. overall from 46% to 55%!!! [Barely passing would have mortified me a few years earlier… just passing was my hope these days, but improving on the previous semester’s results? BONUS!] English: y’know 27/30 – 82% up by 2%, art, well, I’ll be lucky to get a Very high [Achievement]. Dunno yet. Bio hasn’t finished marking yet, but so far, am 44/63. BAD. I’d wanted to get a V.H. for bio this semester too. Today was boring really. Did nothing besides find out marks. (I beat Cameron in everything – he hates me now) Mark was around. He has a gorgeous face – bone structure etc. Eyes. I laughed at a little joke in biology and he looked at me smiling (not for long – like a glance) Then this arvy I tried to do more art. Just finished crying. I’m not going to get half the stuff I wanted to get in, in. Big Trouble for Lissa. No money [sales = income]. Is 10:45. Going at 8:30 tomorrow to get my work framed. at Upstairs Gallery. Got my fuckin’ periods 2day. [Every woman’s joy]

Thursday 27/11/86

Boring! Mark was there – but left. We sat in Monique’s maths class with about 10 others, then Justine, Fi & I went to the hospital to see Leanne – she’s really sick – they think gall stones. OH NO. Poor Leanne. Back at school, Mark’d left. I got chem. result fixed up – passed! 43½/80!! [It’s a miracle!] Then, walked to Justine’s (saw gr. 4&5 photos of mark! – yukky [!?!] – bit cute, too – very different!) Mrs F took us into town. Spent the rest of the day there. caught town bus home. Did little artwork tonight – umah. [Hang on, you’ve been in tears the night before… but don’t care today?] Tomorrow, everyone (or lotsa people) are going to crystal cascades. I can’t wait! Rang moni – she doesn’t know (she’s shitty – found out Cameron only wants to be a friend) Sharon is, and Cameron is. (doesn’t know how ringing me back tomorrow at 9:00.) Chris told monique last night. Wonder who C. McK does like? Oh, Mark. I want you. Oh Cameron. I love you!! 2 fav. guys! Saw Upstairs Gallery about my framing this arvy – can do it for $100!!! 9:47

Friday 28/11/86

It was a mess. Heaps of phone calls but finally, Sharon & I were about to ride to Crystals, when Cameron, Glynn in Brian’s car all came – gave us a lift. We were the only girls apart from Tanja S and Melinda B. Heapsa guys – Cameron, Glynn, Chris, Brent, Steven, David & Peter S, Brian & others like Mark F, Todd Q Torstein… we swam. and sat. and I got burnt shoulders. No problems with periods. there were 8 in the car home – all the guys came in to my place for cold water. Cameron (silly!) left his shoes here. Sharon rang when she’d ridden home – she’s grounded not allowed to stay here tonight, nor go to the party tomorrow. I’m shitty. I have to work tomorrow, finished my bag, wax my legs & armpits, make my dress, make my belt, which I stuffed up just now, FUCK IT and my fuckin’ hat. [I was clearly going through a phase of making (including sewing) lots of stuff… in the midst of… a lot of other stuff (think all the artwork I was meant to be producing for our exhibition). I am only realising now that it’s a lifelong trait of mine: to take on multiple things all at once: which most certainly holds the potential to conjure Stress, ultimately. Like, for example, having 4 jobs…] Cameron also rang this arvy. So’d monique. She wasn’t allowed to go today – not that she didn’t want to. [I’d assumed she may not have wanted to because Cameron was, potentially feeling hurt and/or embarrassed by his rejection] 9:30?? friggin periods!

Saturday 29/11/86

Before work I collected my art stuff . It’s alright – a bit bent – and NOT vacuum pressed, tho. I was ripped off I think. $90 and even ‘Marilyn’ [one of my pieces] was wrecked. (well, a bit more warped) Earned $14 at work. Mum picked me up. Rushed to pack at home. Chris & Glyn were at monique’s swimming. Camille’s (her sister) bus was late. At 7:30, we were rushing. The ‘Kellys’ took us [to the party – whose it was I can’t recall. In fact, I barely remember the location and the following events]. Mark came with Cameron. I finally sat with him and Fi on the grass (& Cameron & some others) Now, it was hot, to Mark. He asked Fiona if she’d sit and talk in the gutter. Everyone said I said this (I can’t remember ..musta been only a joke) “Leave Fiona alone, don’t try anything on her” [jealousy?]. Anyway, to cut a long story short, he got angry. Walked with Fi [privacy omission here]. Cameron & I went down (so did nicole) I tried to say sorry. He was raving on about how he hates people pre-judging him (& others) I started crying. But in the end we hugged. Then cam & I left Fi & him to talk. They came up after and mark asked me to come and talk…→ [continued on the next page of the diary…]

Sunday 30/11/86

we sat in the grass. And talked. He does like me. At least, he said. “My favourite waste of time” reminds him of me – he thinks of me or if possible looks at me. [This relates to a previous party where I discovered that this was one of his favourite songs. To revisit that episode, click here. There’s also a link to the song on YouTube in case you fancy a listen] And a certain star in the sky reminds me of him. And I’m one of 2 people he’s ever met who he thinks he could settle down & marry & live happily with. We told each other lots about how we felt. Then we talked about general things. And after we walked to the beach (Chris, Cam. Glynn, Mark, Alan B, Nicole, Clarissa, Moni, me, sharon) (Chris tryin on to me – embarrassing!) We talked for ages, then. He loves apricots. Wants to own a ski lodge in Canada – a red ferrari like Magnum’s [that’s Magnum P.I. – an 80’s TV show/character], our house will be in the snow mountains with fruit trees & a big slippery slide down to a tropical beach with a 40 foot yacht!! Anyway, at 3:30, Cameron got his mum to take us to Nicole’s – she made 2 trips. [Good god, mothers can be VERY accommodating to their children – and others’!] Slept very little at Nicole’s if at all. Mark being my friend. (Said he wants to be a friend & more than a friend – he’s afraid of me!) – like I am! He says that’s like mima & brent (their love being deep & strong from ‘fear’ (?)) Walked to monique’s at 7:00. Mark didn’t say anything at all in the morning. Spent day – slept 3hrs, had a swim then went to set up exhibition .. Mark snobbed me. I began to wonder …could all those things he said possibly be untrue?

Six Sea Shells, Water Fights & ‘Hopeless Devotion’ (20-26 October)

Published on October 20, 2014 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 20/10/86

I saw him (properly) once. And he smiled (I don’t know if it was to me but) he was looking at me at the same time. And keith was friendly enough – more so than Mark – but that’s just natural. I spent 3rd, little lunch, 4th, 5th & big lunch in the art room. My picture’s complete but I hate it. It’s boring. It needs something different. I hate it & I left my theory booklet in the art room so I haven’t done the theory (rang Monique to get the Questions) – God he’s gorgeous when he smiles!! (MW) Also started weight watchers today – was surprised how un-hungry I was!! Only got abit near dinner time. Otherwise amazing!! Waking early to do sea shells [the art assignment I was struggling with. We were expected to create a piece with the ‘uniform’ title Six Sea Shells]. Do what? God only knows!! Is 9:55

Tuesday 21/20/86

Got a lift to school again – got my theory part finished just in time. Woke early-ish..did the picture; added tracing paper & cellophane. Am pleased with the end product. My theory I rushed during double bio, art & little lunch. Saw little of Mark, but think he was looking at me. Sharon reckons so, too – as well as Steven. (?? hope!) [← am not certain that that was the word I meant – I couldn’t decipher my handwriting] Big lunch – the first free one (really) since I’ve been back at school. In the Daily Sun in the Library, (Taurus) mark’s starsign read; “You will have a change of heart for someone or something.” Someone!! Me?? Hope! Yummy gorgeous! Stevie’s cute too [“Stevie”??!]. Is 9:10 – coulda bin in bed ages ago fooling round. Travers rang me 2nite didn’t know what to say. Six sea shells finished – now have english oral & assignment + chem + maths + STUDY for exams

Wednesday 22/10/86

Yes! Yes! Yes! I think he dropped Nicole tonight. He was looking at me. Also talked today a bit – great!!! Then tonight we talked even more. I think I can tell!! Did no HW. Sharon’s staying over – late notice. Decided at the dance – so she didn’t have to go home early. Hot it was. Remind me to have a shower in the morning so I don’t stink. [Ooookaaay] Didn’t have much HW anyway. Finally got my bio mark back 35/40 Wo!! Still lotsa work to do. We talked a lot! I think I’ve realised the problem. I couldn’t hack it if Mark didn’t like me ever. I’m hopelessly devoted I think. [Yeah, that sure is a problem. The best news is that feeling changed!] Rode today. Rode home on own to make pants for the dance & I love ’em! Is [here I forgot to actually note the time]

Thursday 23/10/86

Yes! I did talk to him today! End of big lunch, before biology in 6th period And yes, I think he really does like me. Had fun at lunchtime today.. Angie, Fiona, Justine, Sharon, Donna, Sandie, Monique all ate mangoes from the big tree in the walkway down the centre of the school (I hate them) [not any more, they’re one of my favs now] & back at our area, Sharon & Kathyanne had a water fight. Got Asti. Were all sopping wet. All the guys & us girls were watching. They were (the guys) going to get me so Travers said. They got Fi when the bell went. Then Mark told me to come over “Fiona wanted to talk to me.” She said she didn’t – but I saw Steven with water so I ran. Yes! I was meant to be that target too, but Fi got it again. She was satched [a slang abbreviation for ‘saturated’]. During 7th p. started raining. Poured till about 6:00. Great rain!! Shoulda had an early night. Is 9:40. Got only 5 or so hours sleep last night. Sharon rode home on my bike at 5:50. Mum dropped me to school yet again.

Friday 24/10/86

Today we went downtown during period 4, 5, big lunch & 6th (& ½ of 7th) to clean off windows. Before that nothing happened except that I stuffed up my oral [english speaking assignment] totally. And I’m not going to repeat it [coz I detest “speaking in public”]. Walked downtown – mark, nev, Steven & keith right behind us. They, (mark, nev & steven) swam at Granada [a hotel] pool. I talked to him & steven. They disappeared then reappeared later. Talking to us, then steven started a fight – Mark & Steven against me with dirty (green) water. So? Who cares? [←not sure what that means] Then, walking back to school, Mark had a jet-spray gun. [Perhaps that’s what they went to get when they ‘disappeared’ earlier?] Chased me now & then Monique just walked. Stayed in art room for remaining school time – went for a walk – came back & mark & Steven had hidden our bags. Found them. Got changed and that was it. SO HOT. Glad I talk to Mark every day. [It had been a LONG time coming…the courage, the ‘opportunity’…] Does he really like me a lot? Beka’s staying over – came over primarily to see me – talking so much asked her to stay over.

Saturday 25/10/86

Beka left early. I spent the whole day writing the letter to Delanie, all about Mark. Get this → 32 pages long! Cherie & Petra (& Amanda) came over in the arvy. I love talking to Petra. I like Cherie a lot too. Got periods today. Anyhow, after I finally finished the letter (in a rush – I was so sick of writing it) I talked/thought about it. Writing that “history” and hearing it all again shed a different light on my feelings towards mark. I think, more like hope, that he really does like me more than other girls, in a different way. It’d be beautiful. I think I love him. He means almost everything to me at this point in time anyway. [Such a ‘romantic’.] Is 10:00. Wanna sleep in. Did little HW tonight. Have an english assignment left to do yet.

Sunday 26/10/86

Not an interesting day. Dad came around 11:00 [to pick us up]. (Before that I did some HW) I watched TV there. Oh! Besides that, I actually went for a walk on the beach [he and Jenny lived at Holloways Beach] for about 1 hour with Jules, during which I ‘leaked’ & I didn’t know till I got back. It was rectified, however. God its hot! Anthony, when I first saw him said to me “Liam wants to root you.” I couldn’t stop laughing (I didn’t know what to say?) [I seem to be stuck for words often. I’ve always been one of those people who thinks of a comeback or witty remark long after the moment has passed.] I always thought Liam hated me! Remembered how the others talked about him .. how he’d also screw [privacy omission here] if he had the chance. well, well…!!! [He’s a teenaged boy – isn’t that what most of them want to do?] Is only 8:00. Am going to bed. Did not even start my final english assignment, nor any study. Boring at dad’s I really really really [the third ‘really’ actually had a double underline under it. REALLY!] hope Mark likes me a real lot; and differently to all the others. That would be love. [Really?!]

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!!

The Mannequin & the Ancient African Queen (17-23 March)

Published on March 17, 2014 by Elissa Coxen1 Comment

Monday 17/3/86

Guess who was a snob today? I walked down to art, passed him (in a crowd of people) he looked but face was the usual scornful look – no’ expression. I smiled partially. [Definitely one of those begin-to-smile-then-realise-the-recipient-isn’t-going-to-reciprocate moments] I had wanted to say Hello. Angie was upset, too. Sandy B said Mark told her he didn’t like her. (I don’t mean to sound cruel but I hope he doesn’t) [Obviously self-interest, certainly no animosity] Also, Keith kinda looked as if he wanted to say hi, but I was too shy. [Surprise, surprise!] In art, 4th period – he came briefly into our class (I was sitting near the door & partially smiled at him as he entered) I do like Mark a fair bit. Got up-to-date (fairly, anyway) in Maths. Actually got my english assignment in too!! Double Bio tomorrow. I wonder if Mark remembered the things we did & said – I hope so. He’s so nice! It’s 9:38. I have the distinct feeling I’m not in Jemima’s good books lately. Wonder if I’ve upset her at all. Heather & Marg esp. H. are being really nice to me now. Same as lotsa others. I’m in good books [I’m certainly not feeling like the ‘goody-goody’ (social ‘pariah’) I felt I was at Smithfield High now.]

Tuesday 18/3/86

M-Mark! Mm-mm! Hunky!! Did I tell you we got the car back yesterday? No? Well it looks good (abit funny tho’, cos all the parts are new & modern i.e. bumper bar, grill, lights & bonnet etc and it makes the car ooh funny – back part old fashioned – front modern!!) Rode today with mima (Fi’s got a flat) First a dog chased us, then got soaked to the bone in a downpour (And I got a bit the same on my way home, too) Beka also called in to give me a belt back Wanted to tell her all about the party & Mark – but didn’t have time. Also did no HW. Hafta wake early tomorrow to do it. Also have to reply to Fran’s & Delanie’s letter, yet. Raining now. I love it. Rain, rain come & stay, never ever go away!! Ha! Ha! It’s 9:36. And I should’ve gotten to bed an hour ago.

Wednesday 19/3/86

I had some good news today. Well, I’m hoping it means good. Y’see, at lunchtime, barely anyone was around our seats, except Angie (M) & Astia & the pop. guys up the end. Terry said “elissa” – I look ’round → he said “come here”. I say “why?” “Wanna talk to you” – I start to move up & hear a funny noise from the group→ a laugh kind of. [yes, clearly the boys were getting ‘excited’ & ready for the ‘entertainment’…] I’m sure I went scarlet & I felt great heat creeping up my neck and face. I didn’t hear who he said but Terry said “… is a nice guy.” Shame! But you know who I hoped it was! (Angie M. was away yesterday [here I am omitting something that is not my place to share] ) After speech, fi, mim & I were talking about … mim said she doesn’t think he hates me (cos we were “together all night→ Bull) Fi said she overheard M & Steven in art and said “You remember the manequin?” “Yes” he said (I dunno how he said it though) [I’m surprised I didn’t mention the ‘Mannequin’ anecdote, but then I was limited for space in my diary. It began on the Fitzroy Island biology excursion, when I was ‘caught’ dozing on the boat ride back to Cairns: when I opened my eyes, I saw Mark & Angie & the rest of the group all looking at me, then (naturally) they laughed. I was highly embarrassed (which is another reason I’m surprised I didn’t recount the tale on the day). So at the party, Mark was asked (can’t recall whether I or one of my friends interrogated him) about that moment and his explanation was that they were concluding I looked like a mannequin because I was so still. Hmm, doesn’t ring true with me now, but I ‘ate it up’ then.] M. is tops. It’s 9:33. Wow!! another late night & no HW done. Wonder, wonder, wish (??!!)

Thursday 20/3/86

I am confused. I don’t know whether he likes me or not (to start with) and whether he likes Angela M still or not. (It’s known that he said he didn’t, but maybe he changed his mind. [It has been known to happen!] Hope not. Hope he likes me a lot. If not a lot, then not at all [haha, “all or nothing”!] Because if I did go with him, I’d be constantly afraid of the relationship ending. Cause I like him a lot & I don’t think I could cope with him saying he didn’t like me. [Oh dear, so much Fear at such a young age. So much …Ego!] Oooohhhhh… English exam I think I failed. It was so hard compared to the ones we got from Smithfield. Didn’t ride today – I rode to mim’s in morning to check – caught bus at her stop & watched everyone at gym. Fun? Nuh. It’s 10:01 on the dot. And I am disturbed. My dream last night gave me doubts about ever (if possible) entering into a relationship with anyone. PS: I did maths HW

Friday 21/3/86

Can barely keep my eyes open. Is 10:20. I am so tired. Went to Nana’s to help her with her cleaning and also change around her furniture. After, went to Coles to get some (few) groceries for us. Mark was there – I didn’t see him until the end. Wonder what he thinks of me. It is so hard to tell. Wish I knew. Wish there was another party. Damn, am so tired – my eyes are so sore. Chemistry was O.K. Tanja & I were able to check some answers but I know I haven’t full marks. Got 17/20 for my english assignment, too, which is excellent, considering I wrote it before school & at lunch-time!! [I was always a ‘natural’ in English] Have another one to do this weekend + Maths + Biology study. I am dead. Work tomorrow. Have decided to ask dad if he can give me money instead of chocolate, for Easter. I really want to get my hair permed. I must also lose some weight.

Saturday 22/3/86

Half-hoping someone would ring and invite me to a party, I decided not to spend the night at Dad’s unlike Julia. [This is exactly what I say to people when I’m finding examples of my “un-familial” nature. I yearned for social stimulation (but didn’t actively seek it out- duh!) Funnily enough, I believe I inherited my sociability from my father himself – I have always perceived him as more of a social creature than a devoted family man. Perhaps this is why, to this day, we maintain significantly less contact than my sister and he do?] I worked only a little – there was not much to do – I earned $21.50. When I got home, I wrote letters – 1 to Fran (short-ish) but the 1 I wrote to Delanie was 8 pages: about 6 or 7 of which were all about Mark, the party & Fitzroy etc. Ha! I’m wishing’! (Bloody oath, I am – no joke. He’s got to like me. Got to) Oh! It’s 10:38. Late night again. And I did no HW again as usual. Cram, Cram, Cram. Have maths, bio study & eng. & bio assignments to do tomorrow. Poop. AM starting to feel tired now. Weather is wierd. All my thoughts and writings (i.e. letters & this diary) are concerned with Mark. he is all I think about. Oh dear. [Yes, oh dear]

Sunday 23/3/86

It’s 9:42. 10 minutes ago I finished a letter to lucy. Now, this weekend, I have written 4 letters, sent 2. Started writing out rules for maths exam. Did a bit on bio assignment (found out most of my flowers are now mouldy or brown) and (very little) for english. Spent most of my time Doing my hair, listening to music, reading about classical mythology and eating. [We had a strange little single volume ‘Pears’ encyclopedia that I loved to delve into now & then. It contained some pretty eclectic info, including a great deal on Mythology, which I loved. In it I actually discovered an alternative origin of my name, other than the boring “derivative of Elizabeth”. Elissa (or Dido) was a Phoenecian princess credited with founding and then ruling as first Queen of the city of Carthage (in what is now Tunisia) in 814BC. I’m guessing that predates the very English name ‘Elizabeth’. Perhaps Elizabeth is a derivative of Elissa?] Nell & Amanda came around. Conversation was very weak – couldn’t get one started. But they left almost as soon as they came. Nana came over, too. In all my letters (except to Jodie & Mike & to a lesser extent, Fran) I have detailed about mark – it has been the major subject of the letters. I just can’t get him off my mind. Am I in love? [Nope] Or deeply infatuated? [Bingo!] Or, or what? [Obsessed?] God I wish I knew.

Falling in Love on a Trampoline (10-16 March)

Published on March 10, 2014 by Elissa Coxen1 Comment

Monday 10/3/86

Julia is sick. Soon as she got home from school – she was talking irrelevantly [?!], crying, dizzy head-ache and after, (almost) continual vomiting. [Unfortunately, I fail to disclose what was wrong with her, so we’ll collectively never know] Mum took her to the dr’s in Geoff’s car around 8:00 tonight. Got little HW. Did most of it. Got letter from Fran. Wanted to write back to her (& Delanie) but didn’t have time. Is 9:40 now. I am not very tired, but must get sleep for tomorrow. Am excited, in a way (at least Donna & Mark W.* will be there (*I hope)) “Boringest” day I think I’ve ever spent at CH. except that in triple art (& little lunch) we watched “The Breakfast Club” – unreal, excellent, tops! And Neville & I talked on our way home off the bus this arvy. WOW!! My teeth are sore. (Only gamming) [Okay: why I would be ‘gamming’ about sore teeth, I can’t fathom, but for those who are wondering what the hell I man by ‘gamming’, it was local slang for “just kidding”] Have a breakout of tiny pimples all over my chin & round my nose & mouth. Not ordinary pimples – like rash lumps. YUKKY. [That’d be Rosacea. I had it on and off for years, but since I really cleaned up my diet, it has completely disappeared.]

Tuesday 11/3/86

Weather was fair for a fair day. Not exciting – but not boring, either. Is 9:30. Am quite tired – not looking forward to Thurs. or tomorrow, for that matter: I was skinted badly today → we were talking about who we liked (Donna, Angie, Maureen & I) and I said “Steven B…” and Mark W was sitting nearby. SHAME Then I indicated him & I think Angie told him later. [Uh-oh…] She was flirting with him all day. Otherwise – I LOVED SNORKELLING!! It’s fantastic! I even touched some coral!! I think the only time I’ll ever be afraid of the stuff again, is when I have no goggles or flippers. [Wow, I don’t recall having a coral ‘phobia’. But clearly it wasn’t quite resolved, since I’d still need snorkelling paraphernalia in order to find my courage.] Otherwise – I’d live in it!! Nah!! I just realised another favourite Pastime!! SNORKELLING RULES!! Not burnt! Believe it? You better! I’m a bit hot now. Got chaffing. And I don’t think Mark W likes me much.

Wednesday 12/3/86

Boring day. Boring. Boring. Boring. I forgot I had speech → was 30mins late. Had some of the remaining birthday cake from Mrs Marsland’s party yesterday. The mock cream I actually liked. [urgh, really?] Think Steven knows. Am sure of it. Then again, could be my imagination, huh?? So. I haven’t much to say. Except that I missed out on 9 sections of work in maths yesterday and our “prick” teacher only bothered to revise the last 6. So I know nothing. But the main reason for my “boredom” is the fact that almost everyone is going to Fitzroy tomorrow (& they’re gonna have a bigger rage cos it’s Heather & Marg’s birthday & they are gonna have a mini-party. And of course I’ll miss out. Life is dull. It’s 10:42. I am dog-tired. Am allowed to go to Sat. night party. [I love how I keep opening brackets and not closing them…because I’ve clearly forgotten – like a goldfish – that I had opened them in the first place.]

Thursday 13/3/86

Boring! That’s what today was. But I did survive having Mima & Fiona not there. I hated lunch time & before & after school & on the bus, the most. I didn’t really enjoy hanging around Donna (no one else would’ve hung round me) so I enjoyed her company anyway. [USER!!!] Did very little work today. Very little homework, too. But this weekend, I must get all of it done on Friday arvy, so I can do a bit of work on Saturday morning, then catch the train to Kuranda at 3:00 [where the party was being held; one of Cairns’ tourist attractions is the original train ride up there, so it made sense for parents to let us take it, rather than drive up the mountain range], go to the party and sleep in Sunday. Sunday arvy – assignments definitely. Angie is a bitch. [Here we go…. JEALOUSY is a bitch!] She’s flirting so much with Mark. Sat with him in Bio today. I think (hope) Maureen’s cheesed off with Angie. She’s a tart. I think she’s trying to make me jealous. [IF that was the case…. SUCCESS!] Is 9:50

Friday 14/3/86

I am tired. It’s 1:20. We’ve just come from a party (a Hash party) and, yes, dad was there too. It’s quite cool (Has been for a while) Carol B lent me 2 pr’s of Dean’s old flannelette PJ’s for the party. Don’t wanna use ’em but looks like I’ll hafta. [T’was to be a pyjama party…obviously. But I’m fairly sure I didn’t wear the flannels after all – it would’ve been way too hot. From memory I might’ve worn a pair of my ‘home-made’ (by mum) shorts, that could’ve passed as boxers.] Walked down to Limberlost Nursery with mum this arvy. Man gave us 20 specimens (or 16, at least) + all their names & I pressed 17 at home. That’s (almost) one assign. down – 2 (english) to go. So I did not get any set HW done. Am excited about party – will [be] tops – a rage, man! On the train, too! And dad said he’d drop me home early from work, if necessary. So I can work too. Fantastic!!!!! Am pooped. My eye-lids are lead. I’m bugared. tho’ I got about 1hrs sleep at the [Hash] party.

Saturday 15/3/86

My room’s been changed around and, Jeez, it’s different! I definitely love Mark W. He is the best! [Here we go…] I made friends with a lot more of the guys tonight (including him) but I think Sharon likes him too. He’s a spunk, he’s funny, he’s nice, he’s lovable. Angie is so jealous, too. [Really?] Sharon, him & I (mainly) spent a lot of time together sitting on the trampoline singing songs. He’s fantastic. And I hope he remains friendly even when he is sober. [!!!] Cos, to me, he’s special (but something strange tells me not to bother (he’s taken or likes someone else, etc)) [It’s called “Gut Instinct”, Liss. You’ll learn to follow it, One Day…] (I earned $16.25 at work today – almost missed the train) He came and sat next to me on the train too. I think he likes me – but it’s probably just my IMAGINATION (again) It’s 12:45. I’m exhausted. Mark W – is the only thing on my mind. Kissed me – not proper tho just a kiss on lips! [So this was it. As close to an ‘official date’ as one can get, to falling for a ‘First Love’. Note: I didn’t say TRUE Love!]

Sunday 16/3/86

Couldn’t stop thinking about last night → Mark & the stupid things I said. Mark, oh, Mark, I wish you liked me. A lot. Very much → nuts about me. I woke at 9:30. I couldn’t believe it myself!! over 8hrs sleep! Today I did work for my Bio assignment. Stupid, huh? It’s not even definitely due Tues. And english is due tomorrow And I HAVEN’T STARTED. I’M DEAD. I’ll hafta wake early & write something crappy I SWEAR, over Easter break I will do at least 2 assignments. I’m so glad I went to that party – I made friends (got to know people better) esp. Mark, Keith, Ann Marie, Heather, Tarquin, Tricia mostly Mark (& Keith I s’pose) Is 8:40 early nite please! Fixed my room properly today → heaps more room!

A Mauve Outfit, a White Swimsuit & an Inferiority Complex (16-22 September)

Published on September 16, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 16/9/85

NO tests. Mrs B drove us home today (Anna, Jay, me & Fi) cos’ she does voluntary work here (at skool) when Julia got home, we drove into town. Walked around.Worst luck imaginable. All the shews [me being deliberate in my misspelling here, sometimes for phonetic reasons] I liked (weren’t many) were either not in ~~that~~ (my) size or colour. Then, I couldn’t find any shirts or anything. Didn’t do any Homework. Am just bugared. [Actually, I have only just realised how much I use this word, which has a much different meaning to the general public! In our family it was a standard term to describe being very, very tired or exhausted, not unlike the other ‘awkward’ expression some use; “rooted”. Is this Australian slang only?] Can’t wait for the holidays. Eventually (finally handed my selection sheet in) I chose chemistry out of that & economics. Someone told Fi it was just like history so I’m definitely not going to do it. Last nite I dreamed about Tim. I flirted with him. He liked my eyes. Was beautiful. [ ..the dream, the scenario or the guy?] Today Fi told us about her dream that she’d failed english test – said her dreams came true. Wished mine would. I have no chance really. [Great Liss, a lot of compassion shown there to your good friend, by lack of commiseration!]

Tuesday 17/9/85

Very late night. German dinner was fun. Got a new shirt from Ambition colourful almost exactly what I wanted and ($30) Diana Ferrari shoes leather ($40) Am happy. At German dinner went for a walk around Woree. Feet a bit sore but no blisters. Was quite fun – not excellent. Guess what! Adrienne & Erica want us to ride to school with them on Friday. I don’t believe it And we’re s’posed to go to the beach after school together. FUN! [Well I clearly felt a social hierarchy at school. My reaction to this invitation reminds me of the Hollywood teen flicks where the Geeks get sucked into nasty pranks by students of the ‘upper echelon’. Of course, this never existed in my time at Smithfield High – at least not to my knowledge or in my personal experience. Erica actually lived in Freshwater and had attended the same primary school as us anyway. I suppose in my eyes she ‘fell in’ with the ‘right people’ once we began high school.]

Wednesday 18/9/85

Quite boring today actually. Ate quite more than I used to (ie when I cut out snacks) In other words I had a big snack this arvy which was NOT NECESSARY. [passive-aggressive self reprimand?] What’ll I wear to the free dress day? I have no clue at all. Shorts? Wot? Went to art room at lunch & finished off my work there. Then went back to L Block & started ach.[achievement] test. Art test tomorrow & maths extension. (Wanna get a hair cut, too.) Got maths back yesterday & guess – 26½/30. I couldn’t BELIEVE IT! Still I deserved it cos I studied. English however 6½/10 & 5½/10 for english response. Umah. Today’s BP test (exam) was easy but I didn’t study enough theory, I don’t think. Am bugared. Nite!

Thursday 19/9/85

Got 61/65 for BP & Art I found stupid but once I started I felt quite pleased with the results. Maths extension test was easy, but I’ve made careless mistakes set. mark is 20-22/30. Went & got hair cut (is much better – keeps out of my eyes) and after went to KMart; found nothing so went to Earlville. Got a great new purple (mauve) skirt & top (earrings too) for $30. Almost lost $20. Almost lost suit to another woman – who picked it up after I tried it on – luckily she didn’t buy it. Went back to KMart to see Dad. (selling tickets) Went home. Have to have my camp menu in tomorrow. I quickly wrote out my choices 2nite but will probably change. Teachers are only going to refrigerate our meat, so I might have to buy a mini eski for my salad, milk, cheese, butter, yogurt & poppers. Also Asked Mr Carter. if I could swap into group 2 said no. I don’t mind. Gotta go to sleep now.

Friday 20/9/85

Rode slowly (I thought) but still beat the buses. Did no work; was a total BLUDGE! Almost wagged german but sprung by Bancroft (lied & got out of it). Art exam 8½/10 Maths 28/30 Excellent! I freaked! Riding home, Erica & Adrienne went to Smithfield Heights to see a friend said they’d catch up to us. Didn’t tho’. I left Fi at Railway Stn, went to shop & bought lollies. Nana came round. She left & we went to Mandy’s. Heath talks a lot now & Matthew is so big. Night at home. Just watching TV. Going to town tomorrow.

Saturday 21/9/85

Doesn’t even feel like the holidays! Went to town with Justine & Kim (her braces are off – looks nice!!) when I got on bus, sat next to Erica and talked to her until Kim got on. In town walked around – I tried on togs & found a really nice pair of white ones which actually “strengthened” my figure. Didn’t look at the price. Pigged out at Sunny Oven Bakery – had a huge slice of Vanilla slice. [I always seemed to go the vanilla slice. I think it’s because I’ve always had a ‘thing’ for custard.] At home – quickly changed & rode to Justine’s. We sunbaked for a little while, then swam, had lunch (watched grandstand – they all taught me the rules etc.) [Not sure what that was, but have a feeling it was something to do with Australian Rules Football, which was foreign to most Queenslanders. Queensland was – and still is so far as I know – a ‘Rugby League state’ in terms of football codes] & swam again. Rode home. People here. Thought they’d stay for tea but didn’t. Is now 12:50. Just finished Trivial Pursuit I WON for once!! YAY!! Mima works in Kaffa – we saw her. She asked me if I was going to the INXS concert. told her I might & she said “well ring me cos no one else wants to go. THAT’S A CHANGE. huh?!! [I clearly held the perception that I wasn’t an important figure in her life, and that in a respect she was of an upper class socially as well – even though she attended a different school. I think I had always ‘idolised’ her, despite having been friends with her for almost a decade by this stage!] doesn’t even feel like the hol’s – YES it does!

Sunday 22/9/85

Today I did nothing – mostly I read the play book nana gave me, watched a little TV & cont’d writing out my 1984 Diary. Dunno if I’ll fit it in the book. [I did!] Ate little, but quite frequently & it was choccy buscuits or smarties or ice cream etc which is terrible. Did I tell you when I was in town yesterday I tried on some white togs which really looked good? Forgot to look at price. There was a blue pair cut legs up to waist made my torso & stomach look lovely but not my legs. [Oh the 80’s! High, high cut gym and swimwear, but low-slung & drop-waisted clothing!] Gonna work tomorrow. Played Triv. Pursuit (T.P.) again. Not too late 2night. Every time I write in this diary (or any) I feel it my duty to fill each page up. I do alright huh?!! In fact, I need more room – [Not wrong there. Almost every entry spills over onto the next day’s space, which in turn pushes the next day’s on, and so on. This transcription involves a fair bit of page-turning.]

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

Published on June 28, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 27/5/85

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

Tuesday 28/5/85

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

Wednesday 29/5/85

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

Thursday 30/5/85

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

Friday 31/5/85

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

Saturday 1/6/85

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

Sunday 2/6/85

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

Tests, Exams, Assignments & Essays (25-31 March)

Published on June 19, 2013 by Elissa Coxen2 Comments

Monday 25/3/85

Dad told mum yesterday how good we were, ironing our own clothes, washing & drying up & making our school lunches. Guess what we have to do now?!!….. Ran late this morning. Woke at 7:00! Rushed around (at a leisurely pace) [kinda oxymoronic] and made it in time! (to the bus stop.) Science was boring, BP test was synch, German was easy too (but I muffed it up) Maths stupid & boring & english fun! (Bag was heavy 2day! Also still rainy’n’overcast!) First day home. Feels different, somehow not as nice as Dad’s… NO HW, really. Laughed at this set of excuses (a joke sheet which I got from Megan W.) that some people have given their Insurance Officers in their ‘crash’ reports. Talkabout funny…!

Tuesday 26/3/85

Today was a little less wet & a little more hot. Got ready at a leisurely pace this morning. Got my History assignment. Bludged in double art cos’ I didn’t have a plastic bag (or an idea of what to make) for my clay. Maths boring, English 2 to 4 assignments, now. Didn’t get my PES routine etc done so I might ‘hafta’ do it in a lunch hour! BP was fast! After school, read my Dolly – is packed with Fashion, this one! Watching academy awards (57th) Stupid! Never show any clips from the movies

Wednesday 27/3/85

Had a dream about Tim last night. Fiona was going with him & I was jealous, but he seemed to like me better, but wouldn’t drop fiona. It was good. I could see his face clearly too… Today; science test – I mucked it up. German listening test I mucked up, too. Got 28/35 for my reading/writing test. History assignment – I got started – will be easier than my english assignments. Art – I can’t shape a pavlova out of clay! English – 3 assignments. all hard. Maths so confusing! Speech was boring. Jemima seemed un-interested with me today. Brent (a new one) asked her today. Went straight home after speech – then to Geoff’s for National Trust Meeting. Did HW. Got some History assignment done. Very Late night. (‘Horse’ geoff’s cat, loves me! sat in my lap for ½hr) [Impressive…that I let the cat sit in my lap at all. Felines have given me hay fever many a time in the past.]

Thursday 28/3/85

Today was rainy – overcast & cool enough to wear a jumper all day. Science: had Mr McIntyre (Irish teecher) “Had to do wee questions!” [I think you mean Scottish, Liss?] English – comp. test – I’ve failed it! (Was hard) Other period did our reading aloud. Was shaky but got 5/5! Double maths – understand a little, now. History; struggling with assignment. German – went over our test paper. Lazy, gutsy afternoon. Started HW late (around 8:00) Another late nite I s’pose. Probly won’t get all me HW done either….

Friday 29/3/85

Today was cool enough to wear a jumper, too. Bought my new PES shirt today. Is big, but not big enough, I think. Science, marked HW sheet. PES – picked hockey as our new subject unit. German – got 12½/15 for Listening test. Extended little lunch. In form, picked our recreation topics for Wednesdays. I picked swimming at the beach, aerobics secondly, then craft. Sooooo many people picked skating – there’ll definitely be cut down. Art – started different thing. Pav. was too hard. BP – got 34½/40. History – Mr VS made me start again, but I’m on the right foot this time. After school watched TV. ABout 5:45 went to park. Mucked ’round with Julia on swings etc. Good place to think…..Early nite.

Saturday 30/3/85

Today made myself sleep in till 8:00. I must have gotten around 11 hrs sleep cos’ I fell asleep about 9:00 Last night! Anyhow, changed my room around and had a MASS clean up. Then did vacuuming for mum. Finally began my History essay around 3:30 I think. Worked until 6:00 went to tape songs for Countdown but when turned on the TV it was just finished. Watched TV all nite. Movie just finished. Going to bed now

Sunday 31/3/85

I am having a blue bedroom now. My room looks’n’feels just too hot in the arvy sun – so I need a cool colour. I’ve been thinking, too, that I don’t know if I like Sean that much. Tim is such a spunk, I think I’ve taken a liking to him. Anyway what’s new, I’m always dreaming.. Today I attempted (as soon as I woke – 6:30) to do my english essays. Can’t start the animal farm one, tho’ its a little easier & the Yentl one is too hard to continue. Lazed around. Painted my first 3 toenails on each foot & gave myself a quick manicure. Plucked my eyebrows & put some “hair stop” on them. [Again, wonderful examples of my power to procrastinate.] Lateish nite – haven’t learnt for my maths exam. I’ll fail it.

Love Lost & Duncton Wood (4-10 February)

Published on June 12, 2013 by Elissa CoxenLeave a comment

Monday 4/2/85

I’m SO upset!! Sean has left! Yes, he’s gone to Cairns High. Miss him!! Looking forward to seeing him today, but when I asked Jay, who asked Wade, he told me he’s left – oh, woe is me!!! Were all so talkative today. Got our day 1 timetable. In German, Tina was really nice! She asked us to sit next to her & after the lesson, we walked out together, talking. I really think she’s nice!! Shelley is quite, too! She says hello a lot too! [These were some of the ‘popular girls’ so any kind of attention from them was encouraging for my little Ego] Boring in lessons. Was sleepy. Hot at lunch time. Boring on the way home. At home, covered some of Julia’s books. Did HW, while watching “It’ll be alright on the Night – 4” Funnee!! Late-ish nite ……!!!!

Tuesday 5/2/85

Wet, today. Must be missing Sean a great deal more than I thought, as I’ve almost decided to change schools (to Cairns High, where he is) in Year 11. Got today’s & tomorrow’s timetables today! Science first period days 1, 2, 3!! OH NO!! Excited today, in the pouring rain. I love it!! Excites me. Cyclone has passed by Cairns. Poop! I would’ve loved one! [Would have loved a cyclone for two reasons: the first and most significant would have been time off school. The second; they were kind of exciting affairs – Mother Nature in all her furious glory. Mind you, we had never, and I still haven’t, experienced anything nastier than a category 3 storm. My father has and swears he wouldn’t wish it (Cat 1) upon his worst enemy.] Double English was – boring! Nothing-special-day, today. Neville (that guy at the Bluelight) has Beka’s phone no, now. He likes her, THANK GOD!!! Not much else, today!! Early – no! Late-ish nite. Will take some money to school tomorrow I think!! Raining heavy, now!! GOODY!!

Wednesday 6/2/85

Today was boring, again. I really hate school, now. Or, at least, Smithfield. Wasn’t hot – rainy, a little windy & cool. Got a hay fever attack at the bus stop, which changed my mood completely. Love this book I’m reading!! “Duncton Wood” about the history of “the Duncton moles”. Is excellent – have to read 6 books per semester in English. This is my first. Assigned seats in German. Double History was boring as ever. Bought a choccy milk for little lunch. The guy in front of me in the que [this is the second time I’ve spelt ‘queue’ in this way; strange (& disappointing) considering English was one of my best subjects] was the one who I always (used to) mistake for Sean ←(Miss him.) Geoff bought a friend round for tea.

Thursday 7/2/85

Went back to speech yesterday. Are not gonna do our theory exam, just drama. Told mim about Sean yesterday. she said she hasn’t seen him, yet…. Today wasn’t ordinary – started off – the heavy night rain had caused Freshy Creek to go over, so we had to turn back (on the bus) and go over Thomatis Creek. And at school today, didn’t do any work! Volunteered to cover textbooks. There were many girls at first, but the number dropped greatly after lunch, as the work ran thin. Was fun – talking!! One guy (have I told you?) [yes, yes you have] looks like Sean at a glance. I’m keeping my eye on him!

Friday 8/2/85

SWIMMING carnival Trinity won!! AGAIN! 3rd year in a row!! Ran a little lat today. Wore my red fullpiece. Took red’n’white striped Sportsgirl shirt & the book (“Duncton Wood”) I’m reading. Couldn’t afford to take any money to spend, but ended up borrowing off Lucy – 50c & Fi – 40c. Found 10c!! Was quite good today. At least, hardly any rain & even a few glimpses of sun!! Wore jumper almost all day. Was actually quite boring. At the end the teachers had a relay against the kids – they wore flippers and won [cheats!]. Ate my apple on bus. Read book at home. Late nite. watching “Pot Black”. After will be Dave Allen!!

Saturday 9/2/85

(Gordon dropped Danielle yesterday at the carnival. God, was she upset) Horrible day, today. A complete waste of time (I think) and a little energy. I JUST READ ALL DAY!! I finished my (thick) book “Duncton Wood” [THIRD mention of the title, in case you missed it in the previous entries…] It was EXCELLENT. But I hated it – I couldn’t stop crying. [Similar to Watership Down if I recall correctly – a bit of death.] Actually, I could, but it was very depressing. A lovely story – you should read it one (or two!) day(s). [My God, anyone would think I was bi-polar. Loved it, hated it, loved it, hated it, highly recommend you read it – so that you too can be as messed up by it as I?] Ate surprisingly quite little. Julia went to dad’s. At 5:10, got ready to go to Pictures. Saw “Police Academy” & “Caddy Shack”. Both good, but Police Academy funniest. Saw (mim’s) Glen, Kim N & the dreaded, hated Neville. [I still can’t believe my choice of words. So…intense. Matching my FEELINGS?]

Sunday 10/2/85

Also saw Amanda & Janelle last night & Nana came over yesterday) Today did, generally, ‘spring’ cleaning & Homework. I rearranged many things in my bedroom, and have found lots of room now! Went through my old books etc, my scarves & air laces & belts! All sorted out now! Ate little, but what I did was fattening. Quite cool today. Mucked about with make-up. Rang Fi 3 times. Got her the last; about essay. She rang back minutes later with more questions, too! Saw Martin & Patrick ride past – WHOOPEE!!!! Late-ish night. Watching a little of the movie. Eyelids are tired but I’m not…oh, well, back to school tomorrow…….

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.