Colorful Array

May 1, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Happy May Day!

What classes should I choose for TAG? There are at least 20 classes, & I must choose 5. (*sigh*). I want to have a colorful array of classes, I guess that's what most people want. Oh (sigh).

T wasn't at school today. At recess, Andrea & I talked about her. I still look forward to fighting.

However, I can't wait for summer (TAG).

Mom is telling Q about when she was little on her grandguys farm. Now, about sitting on cows. Then kitties, etc.

I love you mom.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Tomorrow's Games

April 30, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

It's 9:00 & I feel good. At school I fought with T. But this time I talked. She wasn't expecting it and I may have won. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's games.

When I came in from fighting, Mrs. E noticed I looked sad, so she called me to the hall & told me she was proud I stood up for myself. Also not to worry.

Got my TAG packet today. Awesome. My parents are so jealous. I can't wait!

*

After this I'm reading to Pen.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Private Earnings

April 26, 1990 | Age 12 | Tacoma

Dear Diary,

Today I went over to Andrea's with T. There we talked. Well, actually she did most of the talking. I was a fool to take our friendship so lightly. Now I believe, it is over.

Now I feel ill, I don't wish to go to school tomorrow. But it shall take up my private earnings, or which I am saving and begining to understand. They are I myself earn from who ever keeps them when I do something good. But alas, now I am running low.

Today I got a postcard from Jeremiah. He asked about Sampson. I am sad.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Eager To Please

April 25, 1990 9:35 PM | Age 12 | Tacoma

Dear Diary,

T's and my situation still has not changed. It seems like everything I did was awful. Out of the corner of my eye I could see her giving Andrea that cruel, merciless look, about me. I want to never treat anyone like T has treated me.

Oh and today I overheard Andrea say in a sarcastic way 'and shes so eager to please her mother,' to T.

I do not know what to do.

*

What should I do about T? I am quite unsure.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Sorry to Report

April 24, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

It is 8:59 and I'm in bed. I feel good. Today I was a perfect student at school, I was nice to everyone. Got my homework done early and had plenty of free time. Even got my room partially clean. And I feel good!

However, I am sorry to report that the situation between me and T has not changed. Oh well.

(Its now 9:03)

*

When I finish this I plan to read in bed.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

To Sleep

April 22, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

One of my dearest friends dyed [sic] today. Sampson, our cat. I know it will never be the same again. He was very sick before we had him put to sleep. I knew the time would come. Will Sam remember us where ever he is? I pray he is happy. Q seems to be blaming this on mom & dad, but hinting only. I cryed [sic] and cryed.

Sam, I love you.

*

What a way to spend Earth Day.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Creepy Fellow

April 21, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

A lot of unwelcome things have been popping up around here. One of them was just solved (thank goodness). You see, my father lost the checkbook. This problem has plagued us all day. When dad found it, of course mom was glad, but she despises my father's memory. I think I inherited it.

Sitting at Bryce's was great. Although at the store a creepy fellow cheated me out of .13 cents. He'll get it.

*

The closest I may come to visualizing my dreams for you will arise everywhere in 'Adventures of Baron Munchausen' & 'Return to Oz'

[the video rental receipt for 'Adventures...' was included]

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Relationship Poem

April 20, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

During a friendship

no matter how close

problems always arise,

and are usually kept

inside

A fight does not

mean your relay-

shonship [sic] is coming

to an end,

but that it is

renewing itself

by releasing those

problems

*

(sigh)

<< Last Diary Post || Next Diary Post >>

School Carnival

April 20, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Today we had our School Carnival. It was great, as always. Laura called, and I'm sitting for Bryce tomorrow. At the carnival I made him a pin.

T. and I got into a fight. I spose [sic] our troubles just built up. No longer am I jealous of her in any way. We have made up, but I am still recovering. She thinks I depend on my mother too much. I do. But T., I love you.

*

Anne, I thought about what it might be like to see eachother [sic] more often. We'd probly [sic] get sick!

<< Last Diary Post || Next Diary Post >>

Young People Prospering

April 19, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

All around me I see young people prospering. At the Shakspear [sic] presentation I went to today with Laura and Mom, I saw two young acting people that were so good. How I longed to join them! I know I should be happy for what I have, but oh, who is? At TAG, I think I'll take an acting class, if possible. Oh (sigh!). Pandora just had to set lose 'Jealousy,' didn't she?

Ado [sic...], Ado, Ado.

*

Oh, Anne, what will I do. Oh, Oh, Oh, Oh.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Silly Stuff

April 17, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Its really been heckteck [sic] round here. Maybe I'm just too excited 'bout TAG. I mean I've been so frustrated about silly stuff.

T doesn't seem too happy for me. Does she feel bad because she can't go (she didn't even try out)?

One of my chief worries about TAG is my meditating. Maybe I'll just be outgoing and not care what they think. I hope I get an understanding roommate. I can't wait!

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Tiny Card

April 16, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Today I received the notice about TAG. I made it!!! I feel so good! I cannot wait to begin.

I am so happy!

It is strange how much a tiny card could mean so much.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Overstuffed Bunny

April 16, 1990 | Diary | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Easter was magnificent! Of course like last year, I couldn't sleep a wink. And the rustling of egg-hiding easily awoke me.

My father made a splendid treasure hunt for us (Q's pictures, mine words, quite hard) and at the end was a Victorian-looking, overstuffed bunny.

It was all bunched up, as though it was ready to hop.

After that we had a splendid breakfast, waffles with whip cream and strawberries, sausages, eggs. Mmmmm! How I loved that day.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Awaiting Dawn

April 15, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

It is the night before Easter and I am anxiously awaiting dawn. On nights like this I rarely sleep a wink (so it seems) and tonight I am sleeping in Q's room on his bunk.

Today we created a special tape for mom and dad. Yes my father is happily home. Easter is one of my favorite days. The colors, the smell, the taste! Well, I shall keep you posted.

And may the morning come quickly for you.

*

I've been so busy, I'm sorry I didn't write.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Scold Myself

April 11, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Oh, I am so tired of these late homework nights. I always tell myself I will get to bed early, but never do I. I even scold myself. When will I learn?

Today, I had my sitter class. It's a lot of fun. Sometimes I get jealous of the girls though. Some of them are so fun and outgoing. Oh (sigh).

Well, tonight I got to bed with unfinished homework again. I know tomorrow I shan't be as lucky as I have been.

*

I am so tired.

<< Last Diary Post || Next Diary Post >>

A Trust Game

April 11, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Well, I've started my 'Safe Sitters' class at the Tacoma Community College. It's fun and it feels like real college (hey, I guess it is).

Lately I have been playing a trust game with Q. On our way home (from school), one of us closes our eyes or is blind foulded [sic], and the other guides. Although it is scary, we both love it.

*

I've been really irritable lately. When I couldn't find my toothbrush I really exploded.

*

Yuk, my dad's still in Farfield [sic]. And I don't think I made it to TAG. Or they would have told.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Dried Plants and Stuff

April 10, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Yes I am keeping to my promises (as best I can). I cannot believe how quickly I've filled up this diary. I'm already planning what I might write in my next journal. Lots of dried plants and stuff. Probably be covering everything I missed here. I hope.

Right now I'm sitting in my waterbed (which my father made for me years ago, yes he's still in Iawa [sic]). My window is open, and a cool fresh breeze is brushing my neck. It feels magical.

*

I told you it'd be neat and tidy.

*

I feel bad that I don't write more. But at least I do at all, right?

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Go Out and Do Something

April 9, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Sarah's last messy entry. Well, I'm back on the school schedule. I no longer feel attracted to Kenton. I don't know about T.

Have you ever had that 'I want to go out and do something' feeling after you've started something new, or just started again? Now I am.

I'm taking a Chapter Test tomorrow, am going to do everything neat and tidy, I'll meditate twice a day, and I'll be real nice to everyone. Wow! New week's resolutions.

*

If you keep a diary, tell me, do you ever write what you planned on writing?

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

New and Fresh

April 7, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Since I've had such a nice, long time to think about it, I'm actually looking forward to school tomorrow. I'll be returning two books I've had for quite awhile to my teachers. It feels good to be starting new and fresh. Everything will be different. That's good. I feel good.

*

Today I played Barbie with Michelle. A nice little sister of Joe O'Brien.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Independent

April 6, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Boy, on nights like this, it feels good to have a heated bed to fall back in. I'm plumb beat from hard play with Bryce (another BS job). BSing I really love, it makes me feel independent. Able to cook and stuff, for yourself. It's great!

After that, I went to the O'Brien's for a bar-B-Q. That was fun. Mostly watched TV. Oh well.

As I write, my mom is making my alarm clock properly set (it read 3:10 - It's really 12:35). Anyway, as I write this now my father is in Iawa [sic]. TM stuff.

*

I decided to read to my plant every other day. I think its important.

<< Last Diary Post || Next Diary Entry >>

Stuffed Animals

April 6, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

As I sit here in bed, near my feet I can see all stuffed animals and such lined up like they're posing for a picture. I've been so mean to them, shuffling [them] from one place to the next. They probably hate me. I've always been one to feel guilty easily about everything. Oh well.

*

When I finish this I'm going to read 'Alice in Wonderland' to Pecilica, my plant [smiley face]

*

I wrote to you today. Writing to you is my joy, Anne.

<< Last Diary Post || Next Diary Post >>

Bored and Wish

April 5, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Boy, am I tired. Its 10:08 and I'm still not completely ready for bed. Nothing horribly exciting happened today. I mostly stayed home and cleaned. Watched much more TV then I should of, and did a lot of wondering what would have been going on at school (its still vacation!).

I can barely remember my friends voises [sic]. I'm getting bored and wish I would get to sleep earlier. Oh, I'll do it tommorrow [sic], I asure [sic] myself. Ha! What does that mean?

*

I did play with Q today. Castle Legos. One of our favorites.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Spring Vacation

April 2, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Hey! I got another babysitting gig with Bryce! Next Saturday. I can't wait!

Michelle (Jeff's 8 yr old sis), Will (Q's friend), my mom, and I all went to Point Defiance Park today. We explored the lusious [sic] Japanese Gardens, I helped a darling little girl (about 2 or 3) play hide & seek at the Lake of Many Bridges, and we all had a pretty fun time.

Tommorrow [sic] we all go to Seattle to check out the zoo there. What a way to start a Spring Vacation!

*

Well, my dad is going Iawa [sic] for that big TM thing, we're all glad.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Condemned to Being Nuns

April 12, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Just before I began to write, T left. She came after school (well, 6:30), and we had a great time.

With turtlenecked shirts wrapped around our heads, we pretended we were English girls, condemned to being nuns by our possessive father. We were sent to Iran on a mission (explaining for the turtlenecks).

It was fun. T and I play the strangest things, and I love it. But at school, Andrea gets in the way, also she thinks its stupid. However, she is still my good friend.

*

I love my life, so carefree, and free. I will always remember this.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Post >>

April Fools Day

April 1, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Today I babysat for Bryce. It was wonderful. Being payed to enjoy yourself, with one of your favorite people, at one of your favorite places. I love it!

Since today also was April Fools, Laura (Bryce's clever, enchanting mother) played a good one on my mom. Now that I think back, it was pretty mean.

But anyway, Laura told my mom that Bryce had broke his arm and I had called 911 and saved the day.

My mom was so proud she just about busted a button!

I felt bad when I told her it was a joke.

Boy though, I really love her.

*

Anne, I'm sorry I didn't write you more often. But I do think of you.

<< Last Post || Next Diary Entry >>

White Death

Circa 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

This very short story is from a 6th grade writing assignment:

Crisp, mid-winter air flowed over her sleek, graceful body. Gliding down her magestic [sic] snowdrifts had always been a tension lifting and fulfilling experience in her eyes. As close as you can get, she once said, to the romantic flight of an eagle. But Natelly Batemam was far from the secluded rolling hills she was so effortlessly glidding [sic] over.

Though she had been sking [sic] for a day and a half strate [sic], she had to escape, driven only by the echos [sic] of fear and mourn[ing] haunting her every thought. Even at her best she couldn’t cut over the bright snow as he could. Though under pressure he split like a dry twig. That was probably why she had made it alive, but alone.

Far in the distance, the rumble of a harmless avalance [sic] cause[d] her to stop. She knew, by the sound, it was far from life-threatening to her. But for a vivid second she was there, his shreaks [sic] of terror rang in her ears and stung her sharp eyes. The agonizing crys [sic] turned to plees [sic] of ‘save yourself we’ll be together again!’ But he was cut off as the merciless white death engulfed him.

She was jolted back to reality when a large branch hit her square in the gut, sending her reeling back, breathless. For a moment she went dead out, then she became conscious of a sharp wind cutting into her thick jacket.

With a start, fear stricken eyes raced, but her predicament would not prevail. It was not till it was too late that it dawned upon her, she was falling.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Show Off

March 31, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

I, like a few other times, today thought my parents were getting a divorce. That will never be so. But this morning my dad decided to go to Iawa [sic] for an emence [sic] TM convention there. Of course, my mom and I (the worriers of the family) feared the financial problem. And they fought. But now I know they love each other so much they can fight. I hope I'm like that.

Boy, there's been a lot of fighting going on round here here.

Sometimes I wonder what it would like to go back to Oregon. Start school again there. Show off.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

The Public Pool

March 30, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 13

Dear Diary,

Boy, it feels good to be in bed. However my eyes hurt from swimming.

See T. and I went to the public pool and I'm sorry to admit it but I had more fun near the end when I went diving with Jeff & Dan (two fifth grade friends) than when I played with her. I don't ever seem to have that much fun with school friends.

My mom and I have been fighting alot. We always make up in the end but I hate it any way. Adolescence?

*

My ear really hurts! You know, diving ear. Ouch!

*

Today I watched 'Honey I Shrunk the Kids.' Now I feel bad about all those creatures I killed.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Hectic

March 29, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

My life has been so hectic lately. I attempted to clean room today. There's a pile of junk at the foot of my bed. If my mom catches me writing she'll ring [sic] my neck. And I better finish my homework.

Pheeeeeeew!

*

Eeeek! Eeeek! And Eeek!

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Smart As a Whip

March 28, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

I was relieved to have a moment alone, as I brushed my teeth. That always felt good after a hard day. With my tired legs stretched, and my exhausted behind on the tub, I considered what I should write here.

I wouldn't spend much time on school. Mostly on my day (with Q.) at Bryce's house. I love to talk to Laura. Shes just like a kid, she really understands you. Laura is great.

Bryce is clever as a fox. He can remember anything he sees. Smart as a wip [sic], too. I think Bryce is 8. I've been wanting to sit for him, for a long time. Since Bryce's regular sitter is away on vacation, next Sunday, it's my chance. I can't wait!

Hans is so tough and cute. But he's only cuddly when he's sleepy.

*

(Happy B-day mom. I'll always love you)

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Rough Times

March 27, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Yes, I have lived through another mortal day.

At school, Kenton did not come to see us at recess (don't blame him), T. and I finally decided Andrea was a snob, and so on.

After violin lessons I stayed and babysat. Boy, I think I messed up. Sadie kept on crying, so I had to bring her into someone's lesson. I hope Mrs. D. understands. Well, she's a mom, of cource [sic] she does.

Then at home, Q. and I got into a big fight. Poor Quincy, I could see it in his eyes that he wanted to rip out my eyes.

Then last, to burn off steam, I went outside, and under the stars, Samson taught me how to be a cat. I was tranquility itself.

And now

Good night

From my house

To yours

*

Well, lifes been Ok. I've been trying to get more organized. I've also been trying to enjoy everything a little more.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

A Piece of Her Mind

March 27, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Last night, since I fell asleep right after my late meditation, I was unable to finish my homework, eat dinner, and much less write here, so I'll fill you in.

T. really gave Kenton a piece of her mind, after he told Veronica's Group (not super popular, but very snobby) about how T. had called him. So some kids, as a joke, went and asked T. if she would go with K.

T. was crushed, though she knew it was a joke. So she chewed K. out, and so he played with us the rest of the day.

*

Oh, T. also told K. that I had a crush on him! Ooooo!

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Darn Predictable

March 25, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

This morning, while laying in my Sunday bed, I really felt down about how darn predictable my life is.

Just like that awful feeling you get when

you know how tiny & unsignificant [sic] you are in the universe (on the outside, that is).

But now that I'm thinking about it (and remembering the Wizard of Oz), there's probably nowhere else I would like to be right now.

*

Today I went to a Spring Celebration '90 at our good friend's new, beautiful-view, home. I also considered writing to Rebecca (my cousin), Anne, and Bryce (friend of mine about Q's age, who just got a beagle, named Hans).

*

Anne, you're a lucky kid.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Dream Theory

March 24, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Since nothing super interesting happened today (except Q & I went kite-flying at school), I will tell you about my untested, almost proven, dream theory. This is how it goes:

Have

you ever had a strange tingly feeling after & during your falling in your nightly visions?

Well. I have gathered that this is the feeling of death, and since your dream world is only a temporary state, so is this feeling. During this sensation you are a ghost.

Also, how do ghosts travel through walls and enter the nether world? Well, they have no shadows. Shadows are what keep us from doing such things. Right now, my shadow is preventing me from falling into eternity.

When your [sic] a ghost you have no shadow, and maybe, during that strange dream feeling, you are just a ghost. And can (if you act fast) learn some pretty interesting stuff.

Not only that, but you are probably just a temporary, visiting ghost during this time. So you don't have to worry about being harmed, I think. Just be a torrest [sic]. And have a good time.

No, I'm not insane, just a kid & creative. That's all it takes.

*

Anne, you've always been a little easy to scare. I hope this doesn't bother you, it shouldn't.

*

Dream stuff is facinating [sic].

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

The Recital

March 23, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

I did live through today. Barely. Studying late last night certainly paid off. Those tests I was dreading weren't so bad. And I think I did good on them.

~ The Recidle [sic] ~

Pheeuu! Am I glad thats over!

1. I took a little too long getting ready

2. Daddy missed his bus and couldn't make it

3. We got out of the house, me in tears, with sopping wet hair and a real worried mom

4. When we arrived, I had combed my hair in the car and she dryed it in the bathroom there

5. Turned out the whole program was running late, and we arrived right on time

6. I played my best, but felt bad because others my age could playso beautifly [sic]!

And now I am in bed with a aching back and drooping eyes. What a day!

*

By the way, T. did call Kenton. At school she somehow got him to agree to play with us Monday's recess. Tricia I could ring your neck!

*

How I cherish my dreams! I will see you tonight.

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>

Last Will and Testament

March 22, 1990 | Tacoma | Age 12

Dear Diary,

Today I went to Chuck E. Cheese's (pizza place) to meet a girl my age who is staying with her father & stepmom (friends of ours). Well, she's a nice girl but kind of caught up in her own thing. I guess we all are.

I was going to spend my after diary-time in bed writing my last will and testiment [sic], for I doubt I will live through tomorrow but I will instead do last minute studying. When I wake up tomorrow, a grammar test, spelling test, reading quiz, & violin recidle [sic] will be hefted down upon me. This may be my last entry if I don't survive.

So goodnight & farewell.

*

Well Anne, I have a new dress, tights, soon shoes, and a bit of confidence, am I ready for the recidle [sic].

<< Last Diary Entry || Next Diary Entry >>