Turn On, Tune In, Eat Some Nuts!

Happy National Nut Day! You can celebrate by eating some of your favorite legumes, like Jake here, or rub some pistachio dye on Quinn's neck and watch the fun! If you don't have any nuts, just drop by It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty World and Daria will be happy (or not) to help you.

If that's not interesting enough for you, you could also celebrate the anniversary of Coyote and Willow's dog's namesake Timothy Leary's birth on this day in 1920. Celebrate by...doing something totally legal, right?

Fandom News!

• Talk about a cancelled wedding that turned into a dinner for the homeless.


• Discuss the recent election in Canada and share your thoughts on the results.


• What is the hardest thing you ever did? Tell your stories in the thread.


• Participate in a different type of writing challenge.


• Can you help ST91 with his problem with Deviantart?

That's Not How You Cosplay Twilight, Sandi!

Happy birthday to the late Bela Lugosi, who was born on this day in 1882. Lugosi was known for (among other things) portraying Count Dracula and other horror movie characters. Technically Sandi is channeling Gary Oldman more than Bela Lugosi here, but I figure it's close enough.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria The Mighty, by Anguirus1955 (part 7): "The ambulance ride to Cedars of Lawndale was nerve-racking for Daria as she held Jane's hand tightly. She silently begged her friend to hold on. 'Please, Jane,' Daria said with a cracked voice, 'Don't die on me. I need you.'"


• Daybreak, by metameric1 (COMPLETE!): "'You know, that writer friend of yours is kinda cute.' In the dark, Trent rolled his eyes and gave the production assistant a dirty look."


• Fixer, by PrecambrianStudios (COMPLETE!): "Jeremy Lazenby had never before pondered possibly quitting his job as a fixer. Today though, I could tell that he was seriously considering becoming an honest citizen."


• Lawndale Z, by Kuriamo22 (part 4): "Jake stood in the center of his dojo practicing his Kata, slightly scowling as he did, and not at his unseen opponent either."

In Case You've Been Looking for an Excuse to Shave

Jake seems to have forgotten that it's No Beard Day, because he picked the wrong time to start regrowing his whiskers. Oh, well, I'm sure he'll fix that soon enough, once the novelty of fresh stubble wears off. I suppose Trent could shave off his goatee, but it's so small I'm not sure anyone would notice the difference.

Any other major characters on the show have facial hair? Either I'm drawing a blank or Daria was full of clean-shaven guys.

Fandom News!

• Tell your lame jokes and puns in the new thread.


• Are you planning to watch Heavy Metal when it airs on TCM?

Out of Rehab and Ready to Celebrate!

Eric's freaking out because it's Boss's Day, and he forgot to call Helen and remind her to send him a card. I think it's unlikely that Marianne will be honoring Helen with any great enthusiasm, either, so I guess it all evens out.

Today is also World Food Day, so let's all take the opportunity to sample some exotic Daria-inspired cuisine, like frozen lasagna--no, but how about Jake's Kitchen Sink--hmm, maybe not--but perhaps some extra-greasy pizza...?

Okay, forget World Food Day. Just try not to get indigestion, okay?

Fanfic Update!

• Daria The Mighty, by Anguirus1955 (parts 5 and 6): "Christella Revy swam gracefully through the water of the pool, allowing herself a rare moment of relaxation as she closed her eyes moved with the flow of the substance around her." (Part 6)


• Rollin', by 11tee (part 1): "The girl wheeled herself down the school hallway amidst sideways glances and stares. She felt every eye was one her. The rich girl. The overachiever. The black girl. The cripple."

Hair is for the Law-Abiding!

Max, the only major character I can recall offhand that has no hair, is ready to observe Be Bald and Free Day! Celebrate like a true criminale, Max.

Of course, just because a character on the show appears to have hair doesn't mean they aren't secretly bald. Any theories on what characters on the show might be wearing a toupee?

Fandom News!

• Share your scary stuff in the CreepyPasta 2015 thread!


• Discuss the bizarre case of the woman who sued her nephew for hugging her.


• Add your opinion to the Columbus Day vs. Indigneous People's Day controversy.


• Wouter is looking for advice on a project he's working on.

Tell Us About Your Frustration in Spanish, If It Helps!

It's Moment of Frustration Day, and Mr. DeMartino is happy to share just one of many of his moments with everyone. Too many more moments like that, and his eye isn't going to survive the experience.

This is also Spanish Language Day, so Penny Lane can express herself in Spanish--or a near approximation of it--to her heart's content.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria The Mighty, by Anguirus1955 (parts 2 - 4): "After Daria and Jane returned to Casa Lane, as Jane's home was often called, the two retired to Jane's room to try and put things into perspective. 'Okay...I'm sharing a body with an alien from outer space,' Daria said after letting a breath go." (Part 3) (Part 4)


• Dreams Rewoven, by RLobinske (part 4): "Michael sat down beside her and slid the chair over. 'I know it's not what you had planned, but this might be a good time to consider jobs outside of academia. Trust me, it doesn't suck out here.'"


• It Begins (Ideas!), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "A darkness has descended over this miserable town. An inky blackness that only I can see. It ebbs and flows, leaking over cracks in the pavement and seeping in through open windows."


• The other black chick, by 11tee (part 2): "Mack walked outside the Zon, Rachel at his side. He was keenly aware of how she looked."

Fortunately, He's Not Wearing the Metal Dentures

Mr. DeMartino is celebrating World Mental Health Day, mostly by letting go of the last shred of his sanity. It's a little scary how many images of DeMartino I had to choose from for this one, by the way. It's almost like the man isn't quite right in the head or something.

Fandom News!

• Did you survive the end of the world?


• Read and discuss an article about toxic masculinity in the U.S.


• Talk about the new TV show, Be Cool, Scooby-Doo!.

At Least He Still Doesn't Need a Shirt!

Jesse's doing his best Crocodile Dundee impression for actor Paul Hogan, who was born on this day in 1939. I'm not sure if Jesse would be any good at subduing crocodiles, but he can't be much worse at it than he is with music.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria The Mighty, by Anguirus1955 (part 1): "As Daria turned a corner on a sidewalk, she heard a loud noise. She turned her head to see a large greenish light bloom from the vicinity of the next street over, just before the sound and light of an explosion drew the attention of everyone around her."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "'Long ago, on a frosty winter's night, a wagon appeared at the gates of Fort Klugman, carrying pioneers to the frontier. A young woman in the party, called Delia, was heavy with child. And though she had journeyed with the virile young men for nigh on one year, none had lain with her, though she was comely.'"


• Sisters and Friends, by metameric1 (part 27): "'I did a simple cosmetic refresh of the basic tool.' Quinn stood her ground. 'I couldn't fault the traditional form, in terms of balance, usability and function.'"


• You'll Know When You Have Kids of Your Own, by metameric1 (part 8): "'Hey, Sam.' 'Daria!' the recording engineer grins, squinting at the video screen at the security desk. 'You're looking good! I thought you were Ani for a second, but Trent told me she never has her hair a normal color these days. Where's the old man?'"

Why is a QB Like a Writing Desk?

Kevin's ready for Mad Hatter Day, and there are times when I think he's crazy enough to pull it off. I'm pretty sure the Mad Hatter had at least some intelligence, though, so maybe not.

This is also German-American Day, and that includes the Morgendorffers (okay, except Helen). It may also include Upchuck, and I'm sure Daria and Quinn are just thrilled to have something in common with him.

Fandom News!

• Weigh in on the suggestion for a PPMB Like Button.


• Share your favorite spooky songs in the thread.


• Who would you give various cartoon awards to?


• Talk about the new season of DC Comics TV shows.


• Ranma is looking for advice on fan artwork.

Fore!

Jesse's teeing off in honor of National Golf Lovers Day, which is much better than getting tee'd off. Then there's Jake, who probably has both covered. Damn ball in the damn sand trap it's all the lousy old man's fault, gah dammit!

Fanfic Update!

• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (parts 13a - 13c): "Daria Morgendorffer opened her eyes groggily as she climbed out of bed. She slowly made her way into the bathroom to freshen up before making her way into the kitchen, where her aunt, Amy, was already sitting down." (Part 13b) (Part 13c)


• The other black chick, by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Mack sat at the bar; the old bartender from years back was gone; in his place stood Andrea."

Okay, Please Go Back to Frowning!

I think Daria's taking World Smile Day a little too far, but I'm afraid to tell her to tone it down. You go ahead; I'll wait a safe distance away.

Good grief! Today is also the 65th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip, beloved by many and inspiration for Petrel/CINCGREEN's fanfics "New Kids in Town" and "New Kids in Town II: 'Batting Practice'."

Fandom News!

• Listen to ognawk and Princess_Pasta's latest Lawndale Lowdown podcast!


• MartinUK wonders which phone you would choose? Vote in the poll to help him decide.


• Discuss the third season of Agents of Shield.

Kevin Must've Pissed Everyone Off Again

Daria's off to solve another mystery as the protagonist of Murder, She Wrote, which first aired on this day in 1984. Whether the case involves a skydiver falling on a cow or a mysterious goalpost collision remains to be seen, but I'm sure our plucky little detective is up to the challenge. Unless there's something good on TV.

Fanfic Update!

• Hit the Blum-Deckler, by Vaahti (COMPLETE!): "Jane comes in with homework. 'I thought their intentions were making me want to kill myself LESS,' said Daria."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 12): "'Look, I'm-I'm just gonna' lay my cards on the table. Maybe you'll think it sounds crazy, and who knows? Maybe I am crazy, but if this is crazy, babe, then I don't want to be sane. I'm in love with you, Wendy,' Captain Murphy said."


• The Many Doctors - Chapter 32, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "The Doctor looked at the Drahvin. She looked similar to all other Drahvins he had faced off against. 'How did you get in here?' she asked."


• Night Witches, by Panzerfaust 150 (part 10): "President Reagan and his National Security Team were assembled in the Situation Room, for the now-usual morning military briefing."


• See Jane Ride, by dammit.taken (part 2): "Silence. The woman sat on her bicycle looking down the trail."


• Sisters and Friends, by metameric1 (parts 25 and 26): "'I want one of these things,' Annie smiled, driving the last of the nails into her new bed frame. She reached over and shut off the little compressor, setting the air nailer back into its case." (Part 26)


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens!), by Roentgen (COMPLETE!): "Daria and her classmates wake up groggily. They are in their nightclothes or in various states of undress."


• You'll Know When You Have Kids of Your Own, by metameric1 (part 7): "After a long moment, Daria opened her eyes and handed the headphones back to her husband. 'Damn, she's good.'"

Bonus Points for Beer-Related Stupid Questions!

Today is Ask a Stupid Question Day, and I'm sure Brittany has cooked up a good one. Or a bad one, depending on your perspective.

I don't even want to know what Kevin's contribution is going to be, but I'm sure Mr. DeMartino will hate it. Especially if Kevin has also been celebrating Drink Beer Day, which wouldn't surprise me.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the Sepp Blatter investigation in Nick's Corner.


• Do you ever salvage characters and story details from abandoned writing projects?

Ring a Bell and Kevin Will Plant an Apple Seed!

Kevin's hard at work for Johnny Appleseed Day, but someone should probably check his bag. For all we know, the genius is planting jelly beans.

Today we also celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Ivan Pavlov, the janitor physiologist who is best known for his work with classical conditioning.

Fanfic Update!

• Evening, by JPAGC (part 2d): "When Daria and Jane stepped into the foyer, Quinn and Sandi were knocking on the visitors' bathroom door. 'Stacy, are you all right in there?' asked Quinn through the closed door."


• General Semantics, Private Angst, by gwrtheyrn (part 50): "Mr Caswall was planning how to break into a house, but needed to develop some skills to do so."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (parts 9 - 11): "Tommy Sherman looked at his clock before returning his attention to the TV. 'They're darn good pa's, but they break the law! American Psycho-Dads on the next Sick Sad World!'" (Part 10) (Part 11)


• Slow Flows the River, by UU (part 4): "'In '69, I enlisted in the U.S. Navy because I wanted to sail the seven seas! Instead I found myself riding a Swift Boat—in Vietnam! We were the swamp guerrillas, rollin' on the river!' Amy was sitting at the bar next to her new acquaintance."

This Blog Post Was Brought to You By the Letter "D"!

Daria's wishing an enthusiastic happy birthday to the late Jim Henson, who was born on this day in 1936. I'm not sure which is creepier: the fact that Daria is morphing into a muppet or the smile on her face.

This is also the anniversary of the Nirvana album Nevermind, which was released on this day in 1991. Trent is probably interested in this one, although Quinn is cringing as we speak over "that...that...grunge."

Fandom News!

• Talk about the piggate scandal going on in the UK.


• Are selfies more dangerous than sharks? Discuss it in the thread.


• Theorize about which Daria characters will choose which college majors.


• What webcomics do you read? Tell everyone about them!

What About Those Hobbit Business Women?

Linda's pissed because she just found out that Helen got voted onto the board of the Lawndale Business Woman's Alliance. That's only fitting on Business Women's Day, though. And anything that annoys Linda Griffin is probably a good thing no matter what it is.

This is also Hobbit Day, so today would be a good day to get that special someone a candle that's vaguely shaped like a hobbit. Or, you know, not.

Fanfic Update!

• Anger meets her match, by dammit.taken (part 1): "Andrea slipped out of her work-clothes, tossing them into the hamper in her closet. She pulled some clothes out at random, then pulled on a clean bra and started getting dressed."


• Dreams Rewoven, by RLobinske (part 3): "'Pardon my frustration, but that position was made for you,' Amy Barksdale said over her cell phone. 'And now it's going to someone with tenure. You know how the game works.'"


• Is it real life yet?, by michaelscarn (part 1): "Daria held the final box filled with her things and looked back at her empty dorm room. She didn't want to admit it, but she'd miss her home for the past six years."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (parts 6 - 8): "'No. I need to adjust the formula a bit more,' Dr. Quentin Q. Quinn said to himself as he observed the results of his latest experiment." (Part 7) (Part 8)


• Sandi, You Hoopy Frood, by Brother Grimace (COMPLETE!): "'Everyone, calm down! It's only been a couple of hours past our return time - and since they haven't been able to contact us on the radio, I'm certain that the authorities have already started a rescue effort!'"


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens!), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "New York City was silent. The four brave heroes on top of the apartment complex looked confused as their opponent disappeared."


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens!), by Wraith (COMPLETE!): "'It's truly horrible. A cryin' shame.' Anthony said sadly."

Tennis, Anyone?

Daria's got her game face on because today's the anniversary of the famous "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in 1973. I'm sure it was one of Ms. Barch's favorite moments in history.

Fandom News!

• Find out the latest news about Microsoft and Linux.


• Come up with your best D.A.R.I.A. acronyms and share them in the thread.


• Talk about the recent clock fiasco in Irving, Texas.


• Tell everyone what cover versions are better than the original song, in your opinion.


• Lord Yellowtail posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: Disabled Jodie.

Daria Can Has Cheezburger

Daria's set for National Cheeseburger Day, but she hasn't decided yet if she'll eat the burger or stick it in her boots for that squishy feeling around her toes. Jane, on the other hand, is probably going to eat at least two jumbo burgers without feeling a thing.

Fanfic Update!

• The DJ, by 11tee (part 1): "Tiffany sat at the table, her eyes misting with tears."


• Geek and Freak, by Princess_Pasta (part 1): "Ted always had a difficult time understanding people."


• A Griffin Story: Early Pregnancy, by Meester_Lee (parts 1 - 5): "Linda Griffin left work twenty minutes early, satisfied that nobody had either seen her pregnancy test kit or worse, seen the results." (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5)


• Lawndale 2021 (Iron Chef Challenge: [daria swim]), by Anguirus1955 (parts 2 - 4): "Inside of the main control room of Sealab, several personnel were tied up to a couch and several chairs." (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5)


• Searching For a New Hope, by thatLONERchick (part 13): "Daria opened her eyes, and the first thing she saw was Jake's worried face."


• Stunt (Scenes No Daria Fan-Fic Should Have: The Madness Sets In), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Quinn hummed happily as the elevator climbed up to her floor. She'd taken off work early so she could get her apartment ready. Her mom was flying in to visit for the weekend and she wanted everything to look good, which meant cleaning up Stacy's mess."

"Mom's going to miss the guacamole!"

Jake's getting a little too into National Guacamole Day, and Helen's so concerned about it that she actually let go of her cell phone. It really must be serious.

Fandom News!

• Kara Wild is looking for a home for the Contrarian's Corner.


• Talk about Australia's new Prime Minister in the thread.


• peapotmaster spotted a possible Daria sighting on Rick And Morty.

Her Fashion Reporter Experience Finally Pays Off!

Daria's just checking out "People Weekly," in which she appeared on this day in 1998. She was a judge for best and worst dressed, which really seems like more of a Fashion Club thing. Still, it seems like she had fun. Or whatever passes for fun with Daria.

Fanfic Update!

• Champion (Ideas!), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "Sandi embraced the feel of the Egyptian cotton sheets as they blanketed her nude body, wondering if she could stay here forever. If there was anything she deserved, it was the best and the finest."


• Daria: College Pains The Sophomore Year, by James the Lesser (part 11): "Daria feels rushed as Thanksgiving comes closer and closer. Conner had invited her to have it with his family."


• Death of a Secret (Daria daughter of ? Iron Chef challenge), by Cap (COMPLETE!): "Daria sat in her car watching her father through the restaurant's large plate glass window. Even with the painted lettering obscuring part of her vision she could clearly see him embrace a young woman."


• Doctor Who: Season 8.5 (Chapter 1), by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "The TARDIS materialised in the tower less than a day after they had left during the Doctor's regeneration."


• Don't Feed It After Midnight, by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "'More importantly,' Daria added, 'We need to find Stripe and the other gremlins,' Daria said." (Part 9) (Part 10) (Part 11) (Part 12)


• Elsie's new wheels, by 11tee (parts 1 and 2): "Elsie walked up to the house and looked at the van. It was ugly." (Part 2)


• Lawndale 2021 (Iron Chef Challenge: [daria swim]), by Anguirus1955 (part 1): "In Miss Defoe's Art Class, everyone was following an assignment on drawing how they see themselves five years from the present."


• Oh Kiddo (Daria daughter of ? Iron Chef challenge), by Vukodlak (COMPLETE!): "'Dad, I want you to know that I met a boy and I think I really like him' Daria shyly announced."


• PerforaTed (The Ted Zone), by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "As Ted was walking through the hall before school one day, he heard a voice coming from the girls' restroom. 'Oh, no. The toilet is talking to me again.'"


• Silence (Iron Chef: Silent Movie), by thatLONERchick (COMPLETE!): "The rain falls all around her."


• Still Waters, by thatLONERchick (COMPLETE!): "Raindrops slid down the glass of Tiffany's window. She sat at her vanity table, though her powders and potions were pushed aside. A large, thick sheet of cream colored paper dominated the glass vanity top. In her small hand was a bamboo brush, a pot of ink close by."


• Things Could Be Worse... (Scenes No Daria Fan-Fic Should Have: The Madness Sets In), by Shiva (COMPLETE!): "As Mr. Breyer continued to drone on and on in Lawndale's English class, most of the student body was fighting falling asleep."


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens!), by Charles RB (COMPLETE!): "Thunderous rain – Upchuck, posting about Aeon Flux on the internet, looks up as he hears a knock on the door. Ominous music plays"

Pew! Pew! Pew!

Daria's already celebrating National Video Games Day, although it's possible she's just putting off her latest writing project. I won't judge; I know the feeling all too well.

Still, this is also National Day of Encouragement, so how about this: You can do it, Daria! Write that story! Bust through that plot hole! Conquer that writer's block! And if that doesn't work, then nail that head shot!

Fandom News!

• Share thoughts and tributes on the anniversary of 9/11.


• Tell everyone about the blasts from the past that you used to watch.


• Talk about pretty cars and Daria characters driving them.


• Vote on the likely outcome between Star Trek Redshirts vs Star Wars Stormtroopers.


• Anguirus1955 posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: [daria swim].

Another CAPTion ConTEST!

Caption this scene in the comments!

"Hand-kneaded bread has more soul."

Helen's busy kneading away for National Date Nut Bread Day, although if she wanted to get out the bread machine I promise I won't tell Willow. Then again, I'm not sure I'd want to taste anything baked by Helen "every night is frozen lasagna night" Morgendorffer.

On this day in 1921, the first Miss America was crowned. Apparently the winner was not named "Darya," and in fact appears to have no Y in her name whatsoever. There goes that theory, I guess.

Fanfic Update!

• The Banding of Daria, by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'Students, we have an exciting fund-raising activity coming up,' Ms. Li said from behind the imposing podium at the hastily-called assembly." (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4)


• Bounce, by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jodie Landon checked her harness one last time. They were approaching the maximum altitude, and she wanted to shine on her HALO jump."


• Fashion War, by ST91 (COMPLETE!): "During Quinn's junior year something happened, something that had a great impact on her life."


• The Fight, by dmsfanman (COMPLETE!): "It was late afternoon on a mild spring day in Boston with the sun shining occasionally, but mostly spending its time behind the clouds. Tom and Daria walked next to each other through the Raft Quadrangle."


• Here (Iron Chef: Silent Movie), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "She parked the car at 12:08. She finally left it at 12:26"


• Is it Curtain Yet?, by Zetor (part 7a): "'Excuse me. Excuse me.' Daria snapped out of the daze she'd been in and looked up at the woman scowling down at her from across the counter, arms crossed and the tapping her foot impatiently."


• It Happened Four Weeks Ago, by Anguirus1955 (part 1): "That was the e-mail conversation that had ensured that the lives of Timothy O'Neil and Janet Barch would never be the same."


• Lawndale Z, by Kuriamo22 (part 3): "It had been a few days since Daria resurrected Jane. They had spent the time training, and preparing for their confrontation with Piccolo the self proclaimed Demon King."


• The Lord of the Mushrooms: The Sampling of the Shrooms (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Hey, Sandi, I just got home today after shopping at the mall. I bought some mushrooms from this guy named Tom at the mall."


• Maternal, by Indigo (COMPLETE!): "Jake Morgendorffer pulled up outside Lawndale High. His youngest daughter Quinn was in the front seat, her older sister Daria in the back."


• See Jane Ride, by dammit.taken (part 1): "Jane sat on her couch, looking at her latest art project; realizing how much it had changed her life these last three months."


• Two thousand and fifteen, by Astrocar82 (part 2): "'So, I'm Daria,' Daria muttered to Jodie after the meeting. '...Which you know already, but hey. You're actually nice, can we walk home together?' 'Sure,' Jodie smiled."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Silent Movie), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "The bag swung as the brunette with wild hair hit it. Each time her fist or foot contacted, the bag threatened to launch the man with curly orange hair off the back of the punching bag."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Silent Movie), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "The young man parked his Jeep and stepped out to survey the park."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Silent Movie), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Daria handed the cabbie her fare and climbed out into the chill autumn evening. A strong wind whipped around her tan longcoat, revealing the black slacks and dress shirt underneath."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Princess_Pasta (part 3): "410: you okay? Please answer. Mom & Dad are worried. I'M worried. If you don't answer in the next five minutes, I'm leaving."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Ranma (parts 1 - 3): "Flake: sis where are you? STNR: Ran out of papers, whts it to ya." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Vukodlak (parts 1 and 2): "Mom this is really hard for me to tell you but I'm pregnant." (Part 2)


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens), by Silver (COMPLETE!): "The Consensus subconsciously generated by humanity writ large set the rules, and breaking them had consequences. Those consequences were collectively known as Paradox."

Got Any Books on Procrastination?

Jodie's all set for Read a Book Day, because Jodie always does what's expected of her. She does seem to be enjoying the book, though, so I'll leave her to it.

This is also Fight Procrastination Day, so if there's a book you've been putting off reading then today's the perfect day to start it. Unless you're only reading because there's something else you should be doing and you don't want to.

Fandom News!

• Was this castle built in the Middle Ages? Trest your knowledge and share your score!


• What method do you use to close bags of bread or other food? Vote in the poll and discuss it in the thread.


• Someone's coming back for the Doctor Who Christmas Special. Find out who in the thread!


• groverman62 is looking for fics with alternate endings for "Quinn the Brain."


• Zetor posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: Silent Movie.

And the Award for Most Gratuitous Cameo Goes To....

Daria and Jane appeared on the MTV Video Music Awards on this day in 1997, although if you blinked you probably missed it. Read the transcript to find out what they thought of the experience.

Fanfic Update!

• Dammit Daria, by SexshiTiTePaNtZ (part 4): "'Daria?' Jane called through the house as her rain soaked body dripped onto the carpet upstairs. She called out her girlfriend's name repeatedly without any response back."


• Don't Feed It After Midnight, by Anguirus1955 (parts 4 - 7): "Daria and Jane entered the classroom swiftly, with Daria holding a big shoebox in her hands. 'Is the...animal in there?' Deckard asked her." (Part 5) (Part 6) (Part 7)


• Lawndale Z, by Kuriamo22 (part 2): "Daria stood near the edge of a barren plateau in the middle of the New Mexico desert late one afternoon. She was wearing a pair of black shorts that almost reached her knees, a burnt orange t shirt, and a pair of black boots."


• Mask (Write-off Challenge Zetor VS BG, Round 1: FIGHT!/Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "'Um...' Brittany scanned the surrounding area, her eyes lighting up when she spotted Daria. 'Daria, Mr. Thompson and I are not speaking, so do you want to do the economics project with me??'" (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4)


• Slow Flows the River, by UU (part 3b): "'What will happen now?' Amy wondered aloud when Patrick shut the apartment door behind him. At first she wanted to accompany him, not so much for the sake of adventure but out of unwillingness to stay behind, alone and ignorant of the nature of trouble Maud was in."


• Straight Outta Bromwell, by Roentgen (COMPLETE!): "Intro (Elsie Sloane): 'You are about to witness the winners of class warfare.'"


• Texts From Last Night (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "505: yo Jo, i need help- met a dude a couple weeks ago"


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Anguirus1955 (part 1): "Skinny, four weeks ago, I suspected that the condom broke. Earlier today, a purchase from the pharmacy proved it."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by 11tee (parts 1 and 2): "GothicT: hey GingerLuv: My Dearest Sweet Queen of the Night. My Babe in Blue Boots" (Part 2)


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "J@N3: HEY! U made it! OK. I have confession 2 make!" (Part 2)


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge: Texts From Last Night!), by Ranma (COMPLETE!): "J. Lane: Daria? I know you're mad at me, please answer your cell." (Part 2)

What? I'm Dead? Oh God, WHYYY?!

It's Dead Stacy Rowe Day! I know a handful of authors that probably enjoy this holiday, and at least one that most likely hates it. Still, it's a holiday created by TAG himself and is therefore worth mentioning. The question for all you fanfic writers out there is, how do you plan kill Stacy Rowe today? Quick and painless or slow and agonizing? The possibilities are endless!

Fandom News!

• What are you drinking? Tell us about it in the thread.


• Share any uplifting news stories you hear about.


• dmsfanman found a reference to Daria in the newspaper.


• The first Zetor vs. Brother Grimace write-off challenge has been posted.


• What fanfics feature your favorite good/competent Helens?


• 11tee posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: Texts From Last Night!

Love Her or She'll Sue!

Helen's happy to announce that it's Love Litigating Lawyers Day, although I'm not sure how many people will be celebrating that one. Maybe Jake, if Helen can squeeze him into her busy schedule.

Also, Daria and Jane made a guest appearance in the online comic strip "The New Adventures of Bobbin" on this day in 2001. It's good to see that those two have reached the point where the Tom thing is actually kind of funny. Maybe.

Fanfic Update!

• An Adventure of Sandi, a teenage witch, by bhut (COMPLETE!): "'...Ugh!' Sandi Griffin said with a groan, as she stretched-out on a cot. 'You can't believe what has happened today!'"


• A classic case of collapse and rebirth, by bhut (COMPLETE!): "Life is not a smooth flow like the river, nor it is straightforwardly comprehensive like an ABC book. Sometimes, events that change our lives are triggered by something very small and insignificant, even something that in other instances wouldn't - and didn't - affect us at all."


• Clothes Make the Crush (Iron Chef challenge secret admirer), by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'I think that's a great idea, Quinn.' I granted. 'Having the football players model the latest in mesh practice jerseys at the next pep fest will only increase our popularity over the cheerleaders. Make it so.'"


• Conga Line of Confusion (Iron Chef challenge secret admirer), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Daria Morgendorffer walked next to Jane Lane on their way to their next class. I wish I could tell you how I feel about you, Jane thought as she walked next to her best friend."


• Daria Nova (Daria daughter of ? Iron Chef challenge), by Wraith (COMPLETE!): "Daria kept a careful eye on her surroundings as she headed home. They lived in one of the nicer areas of the Scrapyard, so she shouldn't need to use any of the weapons she had secreted about her person, but better to be safe."


• Don't Feed It After Midnight, by Anguirus1955 (parts 1 - 3): "It was a few weeks before Christmas, and Jake Morgendorffer had gone up to New York for a brief consulting job for a client who had begun setting up a new business on Manhattan Island. It was on his way back from the last meeting that he noticed a small shop in China Town, having decided to stop there and maybe get a souvenir or two for his family." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Dreams Rewoven, by RLobinske (part 2): "'With you being the major breadwinner, this is going to be a big hit to our budget,' Michael said as he poured over a spreadsheet on the computer."


• The Goth, the Witch, and the Perky, by 11tee (part 2): "'Mr. and Mrs. Morgendorffer?' The doctor looked at the two adults standing on opposite sides of the waiting room. There was a teenager with thick-framed glasses sitting on a bench a few yards away, his eyes shifting from one adult to another."


• Lies of Life, by Princess_Pasta (part 11): "Trent pulled up in front of the modest two-story house, parking his car in the driveway behind Daria's. He was a ball of nerves, anxiety eating away at him ever since Monique asked him for this favor."


• Quinn's Code 14: Wedding Trouble, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "It was uncomfortable. Daria figited. It was just as she had feared. The dress was ill fitted and to make it more infuriating, the seamstress was continually pricking her with a pin."


• The Stupidity Which Came From All That Texas, by Anguirus1955 (parts 1 - 3): "It was a somewhat normal day in Lawndale, or at least it seemed that way, as two female youths made their way towards one of their homes after school." (
• Part 2) (Part 3)


• That Summer, by The Central Scrutinizer (part 11): "'So the creep is actually a dark sensitive nihilist ex-cop guitar collector,' Daria said, twirling a lock of her hair, 'whose day job is as a bill collector'"


• There She Goes (Iron Chef challenge secret admirer), by StickShift (COMPLETE!): "Michael "Mack" MacKenzie walked through the halls to his next class. His walk slowed as he spotted her. And there she went, walking by him oblivious to his existence."


• Unnamed story (Daria daughter of ? Iron Chef challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "It was Daria's eighteenth birthday when she and Quinn were both informed of Daria's true heritage."


• Unnamed story (IC: DIsaac's 10 Items Challenge #1), by neonhomer (COMPLETE!): "Quinn slowly dragged herself into the kitchen, wearing the clothes she had worn the night before."


• Unnamed story (IC Runaway Daria), by Waylander (parts 1 and 2): "Agent Phil Coulson put the car keys in the pocket and smiled benevolently, seeing the impatience on the face of Abigail Brand. She was standing next to the Morgendorffers' mailbox, the heel of her right shoe tapping the pavement." (Part 2)


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge secret admirer), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "There she is. I know it's cheating but I know who I really like."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef challenge secret admirer), by neonhomer (COMPLETE!): "'I wonder who that could be?' I said as I heard the sound of the doorbell chiming throughout the house."

Have Some Kitchen Sink Stew!

Jake's cooking heart-healthy today for More Herbs, Less Salt Day, but someone should probably tell him it wouldn't be a bad idea to lay off the chili peppers, too. For the sake of his tongue, if not his sanity.

On this day in 2000, Admonisher published the essay "A Rant About 'Evil' Tom." It touched on a number of other issues, too, but Tom seems to be the main focus of the ranty goodness.

Fandom News!

• What do you consider to be your soul car?


• Discuss the recent on-air news crew murder.


• What do you think about the high school tribes described in the article?


• Why are so many book cover designs so similar?


• Two new Iron Chefs have been posted in Creative Writing: nightmaster000's Lawndale's newest resident and Lord Yellowtail's The Real Don Jake.

Is It Hiking Yet?

It's time to take a hike--literally--because Mr. DeMartino and the campers are celebrating the anniversary of the movie Is It Fall Yet?, which aired fifteen years ago today. Lots of other things happened in that movie, including Quinn's tutoring and Daria and Jane (finally) making up, but that image right there is still my favorite!

Fanfic Update!

• Dreams Rewoven, by RLobinske (part 1): "College Loses Major Endowment 'That's going to take a bite out of things,' Daria Morgendorffer said as she read the article in the college newspaper."


• A Faerie Tale for Chuck, by E. A. Smith (COMPLETE!): "Charles Ruttheimer watched the full moon rise behind the trees, sending slivers of light through the branches to shine like searchlights on the water."


• Her First Time, by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jodie Landon sat on the bench; the face etched into her mind appeared when she looked at the man leaving the ramshackle hovel. She closed her eyes; her next set of decisions would have a profound effect on many people's lives."


• If You Knew (secret admirer challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "She watched her from afar, much like she had every day for the past two months, captivated as always by how graceful and fluid her movements were."


• Lawndale Z (Daria daughter of ? challenge), by Kuriamo22 (COMPLETE!): "Daria sat on her bed reading like she always did when she wasn't at school or with her father sparring."


• A Man Among Men (secret admirer challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Janet hated school dances. They were just excuses for those filthy men to grind all over those poor innocent girls."


• The Peregrine's Eyas, by Lord Yellowtail (part 2): "The muffled thud-thud, thud-thud of her rubber-soled workboots pounding against the corridor floor echoed in Stacy's ears as she jogged through the nearly-empty fortress at the best speed she could manage without running."


• Slow Flows the River, by UU (part 3): "'The ceremony of corruption having drowned in sweat, Their Majesties departed,' fanning herself with a handkerchief, Amy finished her sotto voce narration of the festivities that had made Don alternatively chuckle and fidget uncomfortably."


• That Summer, by The Central Scrutinizer (parts 2 - 10): "Jane waved over the waitress. 'Excuse me—miss?' Daria huddled over her coffee and murmured, 'Garçon means boy.' Before Jane could reply, the waitress was beside the table, arms akimbo. 'Get you two something else?'" (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5) (Part 6) (Part 7) (Part 8) (Part 9) (Part 10)


• Unnamed story (IC: DIsaac's 10 Items Challenge #1), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jane closed her eyes and rubbed at her temples. The penguins were still frolicking in their pond, and though they never stopped moving, she felt confident she could capture their little idiosyncrasies in her painting."

Is That Your Final Answer?

Tom's wishing a happy birthday to Regis Philbin, who (among other things) was the original host of the game show Who Wants to be a Millionaire? Of course, Tom doesn't care if you want to be one or not; he's not giving that money away. How do you think old money gets old?

Fandom News!

• Talk about the latest developments in North Korea and what may happen in the future.


• Who is your influence when writing? Tell everyone about it in the thread.


• Share your advice to help people cope or deal with bad stuff.


• Four challenges have been posted in Creative Writing: nightmaster000's Daria daughter of ?, Daria/Digimon crossover, and secret admirer and DIsaac's DIsaac's 10 Items Challenge #1.


• Wouter posted a new art challenge in The Easel.

"I finally know what it is to conquer my fear! Nothing can stop me now!"

Jake's ready to take on his phobia for Ride the Wind Day, and I wish him the best of luck. Especially when it comes to getting that branch removed. Whether you want to ride the wind in a hot air balloon or in a hurricane, or just keep both feet planted on the ground, enjoy your day! Just stay away from Jane's oldest brother, all right?

Fanfic Update!

• ASPS, by PrecambrianStudios (part 85): "He was tired and dirty and the world was loud and annoying with people speaking what ifs and who dids. Meanwhile things and people who never existed walked alongside him as he walked down the winding road of greyness that had rose up to cut and smash his face several times now."


• Dear sister, my best friend, by 11tee (part 5): "Hola hermana! I'm not sure where to start, so I'll just throw it all out there. Dad is getting transferred- to Maryland! Like, what's in Maryland? Ugh, I don't wanna leave Texas."


• Freer Days (Daria daughter of ? challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "The Morgendorffer living room was filled with more tension than Daria had felt in a long time. Her parents had called Quinn and her down after returning from a parents night at the school."


• General Semantics, Private Angst, by gwrtheyrn (part 49): "Daria Morgendorffer 2's mind was still abuzz over the intergalactic invasion, which wouldn't even reach the Milky Way while humanity still existed as a single species."


• The Goth, the Witch, and the Perky, by 11tee (part 1): "Quinn Morgendorffer sat on her bed, tears running down her face. The last year and a half sucked. Her life was a mess despite outward appearances, and now she couldn't think of anything other than how much she hated being alive."


• Lies of Life, by Princess_Pasta (part 10): "Still, Monique had promised Sheena and she needed to at least ask him. She waited until he seemed mostly coherent, deciding that she might as well just get it over with. 'I need to ask you something.'"


• The Melancholy of Daria Morgendorffer (World's Medium-Sized Crossover), by Wraith (part 4): "By the end of the day, she was already well known. Not just among sophomores, either, As a new transfer student, that might be expected. But all the other years had at least heard her name."


• The Peregrine's Eyas, by Lord Yellowtail (part 1): "For 10,000 Earth years, the desert land surrounding the fortress of Zordon of Eltar had bourne witness to countless events of import, moments that shifted the course of galaxies—whether cataclysmic enough to light the very space between the stars on fire, or so subtle that a keen observer staring right at the incident in question might miss the whole thing."


• That Summer, by The Central Scrutinizer (part 1): "'You can't smoke here.' The tall man with long hair and worn features relaxed into the booth, looked at the waitress, took a long drag on his cigarette, and softly replied, 'May.'"


• Tiffany (Proposed IC: My Secret Baby), by peetz5050 (COMPLETE!): "'Welcome, please come in and have a seat.' Ms. Li said to the elegantly dressed couple as she ushered them into her office."


• Two thousand and fifteen, by Astrocar82 (part 1): "'Daria, please, take a seat.' the school psychologist offered as Daria grudgingly sat down. This was not a test she, or her mother, wanted Daria to take."


• Unnamed story (Daria daughter of ? challenge), by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'Daria, now that you and Jane are adults, well eighteen anyway,' Helen began nervously. 'Jane,' Vincent said quickly as he headed for the front door of Schloss Morgendorffer. 'I'm not your father but I'll always be your dad. Well, gotta catch that plane.'"


• Unnamed story (Daria daughter of ? challenge), by Meester_Lee (COMPLETE!): "Daria was making her way through a book in the commons room. Despite the tedious Sixteenth-century style prose, Daria found the subject matter both fascinating and illuminating. Her reading was interrupted by a gentle hand touching her shoulder."

Quinn's Gone Old School...Really Old School

Quinn really needs to start using more sunscreen, but she's just in time for National Senior Citizens Day. Quinn may not be very happy about this, but I'm sure Sandi is ecstatic.

Today is also an important anniversary for Helen. No, not her wedding anniversary--more important than that! The American Bar Association was founded on this day in 1878.

Fandom News!

• Kem is having an issue getting smilies to work. Can you help?


• darbanville has a question about disability.


• Staticblast wonders what you think about morality and veganism.


• Why is reality TV so prevalent? Share your thoughts in the thread.


• Why doesn't it ever snow in Lawndale? Post your theories in the thread.


• Discuss TV finales in the Weapons of Mass Distraction forum.

"This is like that movie, Angela's Ashtray!"

Daria's looking forward to a nice, well-balanced meal for National Potato Day. I would have thought it was a welcome change from nonstop microwaved lasagna.

Fanfic Update!

• Black Cloaks of Lawndale, by Waylander (part 23): "Helen made the proverbial first step to solving the problem; she finally acknowledged that she is clueless how to deal with Daria and Quinn."


• Dammit Daria, by SexshiTiTePaNtZ (part 3): "The rain pattered against the roof of Trent's car as Jane and Trent climbed in. 'When do you think this'll let up?' Trent asked his sister as he closed his flip phone. 'No idea. Daria's the one to ask that kinda stuff.' Jane answered."


• Slow Flows the River, by UU (part 2): "'I'm certain I heard someone leaving in the middle of the night, but Patrick is still here, there's no doubt about that,' Amy said. 'At least last night the two of you weren't, um, militant around the clock.'"


• When Love Takes Another Path, by ST91 (COMPLETE!): "At first things went well. After having got of the car Rita, Erin and Grandma Barksdale greeted their families, told them words of comfort and then, while Katherine prepared dinner, Albert, Rita and Erin helped respectively Tom, Helen and Daria with arranging their belongings."

Some Books Are More Equal Than Others

Daria's celebrating the 70th anniversary of the publication of George Orwell's Animal Farm, or at least she will if her fellow campers (coughAmeliacough) leave her alone long enough to read it. Perhaps one of these days someone will write a Camp Grizzly/Animal Farm crossover...and it will be a thing of beauty.

Fandom News!

• Kem is looking for meatless recipes. Got any?


• Share what you're learned from talking to older people.


• Post funny videos and other humor in the new political comedy thread.


• Two new Iron Chefs have been posted in Creative Writing: Shiva's Linda's Trash Freakout and StickShift's Animatronics are creepy.

What a Good Day to--Oh, God, Look at the Time!

Helen and Jake are taking a rare moment to rest on this fine Relaxation Day. Of course, this image was taken from a fantasy sequence because we all know that would never really happen. Helen's phone would start ringing or Jake would think of something that reminds him of Mad Dog and it would all be over before it began.

Fanfic Update!

• Beneath the Surface, by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "'I think Jodie and I are over.' There was a slight pause in the air as the weight of such a heavy statement took a moment to catch up with the both of them."


• Children of the Scorn, by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "Daria once again found herself in charge of a group of her peers, and all hope of finishing her term paper that night was beginning to fade."


• Linda's Trash Freakout (Iron Chef: Linda's Trash Freakout), by Shiva (part 1): "Linda Griffin groaned as the trash bag suddenly split apart, spilling all of the Griffin's garbage onto the sidewalk."


• Rude Awakening Ep 13: The Hiring Game, by DIsaac (COMPLETE!): "CLAYTON: Hey Jo, do you need anything else? JODIE: Nope. CLAYTON: Wait... Whiskey and a cigar? JODIE: It is how EVERY DAY should end."


• She Was Me, by Princess-Pasta/CaffeineAddict94 (part 1): "Mom finally cracked the day after my seventeenth birthday."


• A Time For Us, by aeverett (part 8): "Jane Lane knew, by the set of her brother's features, that he was upset.. really upset, upset in a way she'd rarely seen him in her entire life."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Dance like Nobody's Watching), by Wraith (COMPLETE!): "I paused outside the door of the clubroom. I could hear loud music from within, and it was enough to make me sick to my stomach. Not because the sound was at the right frequency to cause distress, mind you. But the location it was emanating from certainly was."