Be Sure to Come Up for Air!

Daria has become a very unwilling participant in National Hugging Day, but she should consider herself lucky. Better to be hugged by your parents than by Mr. O'Neill...especially if he's wearing a lion costume.

Jake might end the hug early, though, if he notices any fluffy-tailed rats lurking near the garbage cans. It doesn't matter that it's Squirrel Appreciation Day; the only squirrel Jake appreciates is a successfully rehomed squirrel.

Happy--or rather, bittersweet--anniversary to the movie Is It College Yet?, which aired on this day in 2002. It marked the end of the Daria series as a whole, but was a fitting way to finish the show.

Fandom News!

• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Charlie's Angels and Totally Spies.


• The deadline to nominate Written Works and Visual Works for the 2025 Daria Fanworks Awards has been extended indefinitely.

How's His Maniacal Laugh?

Mack is having an absolute blast on Brew a Potion Day, and it makes you wonder what, exactly, the potion is. Is it something to stop time so Jodie can spend a few minutes with him? Will it install a "mute" button on Kevin? Or is it just a new flavor of Ultra Cola?

Whatever the case may be, you might as well sit back and enjoy the show with a tasty snack for National Popcorn Day! The Fashion Club will take theirs with no salt, no oil, no fat...and no flavor.

I just hope Daria isn't stuck in a bomb shelter for National Tin Can Day, especially if she doesn't have a can opener. But it's not like she enjoys peaches all that much, anyway.

Fanfic Update!

• Cereal, apple pie, cat, and dog talk, by redpink (part 1): "Jane's room is quiet in that familiar way—dim lamp light, half-finished sketches taped to the walls, music low in the background."


• Stacy Meets Man Who Stands in Place All Day Bouncing a Rubber Ball, by Buffcoat (COMPLETE!): "Stacy hurries down the street, looking frazzled. She passes by the 'ball bouncer', who's standing in his usual spot, bouncing his red rubber ball off the sidewalk."

Anyone Want a Bathtub Cocktail?

I hope no one is thinking about taking Upchuck up on his offer to help you celebrate National Bootlegger's Day, because I wouldn't trust anything produced by him--old-timey or otherwise. Both his taste and his ethics are...questionable at best.

If spicy foods are more your speed, feel free to enjoy National Hot Heads Chili Day by burning off a portion of your mouth. Jake might observe this one, although whether or not it will be intentional is anyone's guess.

Finally, let's all wish Theresa a happy Customer Service Day, although the happiest day would be not having to wait on the Fashion Club. That poor woman has definitely suffered enough.

Fandom News!

• Please, PLEASE nominate Written Works and Visual Works for the 2025 Daria Fanworks Awards!

Trading in the Pantsuits for a New Look

Helen is taking business casual to quite an extreme in order to celebrate Charo's birthday. I can only imagine how Eric is going to react, but the real question is whether this will help or hurt her chances of making partner at the firm.

Just to be safe, she should probably accessorize appropriately for National Hat Day, even if she hates the way she looks in hats. Perhaps Quinn can loan her one of the hats she tends to keep on hand as a disguise in case of sibling humiliation-related emergencies.

Kevin, meanwhile, can celebrate one of his most beloved anniversaries: the first Super Bowl was played on this day in 1951. The best part is that the Green Bay Packers won, led by one of Kevin's heroes, Vince Lombardi (who did not go to hell).

Fanfic Update!

• Heavenly Wine and Roses, by riotsquirrrl (part 12): "Jane rings Daria’s doorbell at exactly 7:10 on the first day of school. When Daria opens the door, she steps in to give her girlfriend a kiss, and Daria feels herself blush."


• Love and friendship, by redpink (part 1): "The soft hum of the ceiling fan mixes with the golden light filtering through the curtains. Jane is lying on her back on her bed, sketchbook tossed aside, her gaze drifting toward the ceiling."


• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 21): "'So, the Second Age is the Bronze Age,' Olivia said. 'This is when writing emerges in Aurora, although it is sporadic at first. Civilization also spread southwards through the island from the beginning of the period.'"


• Ow, What a Night!, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Angie Thompson, Kevin and Brittany's daughter, emerged from her room. A series of unfortunate events had recently forced her to move back in with her parents (job loss, boyfriend turning out to be a psycho killer, roommate murdered by said boyfriend)."

"It's only a matter of time!"

Quinn is doing everything she can to celebrate Make Your Dream Come True Day, and by "everything" I mean she's wishing very hard but not making any actual effort to change anything. I hope your dreams come true today, unless your dreams involve the ghost of Mrs. Sullivan or funhouse mirrors or becoming your younger sister. Wow, Daria's dreams were something else.

If you believe that it takes more than wishful thinking to make dreams come true, that's both reasonable and appropriate because today is also International Skeptics Day! This one would be a good one for Daria, who tended to be skeptical of pretty much everything.

Finally, feel free to enjoy Poetry Break Day by reading some of your favorite verses, but I don't recommend inviting Quinn to join you. One can only hear "The Greasy Fry" so many times before the magic wears off.

Fandom News!

• Please remember to nominate Written Works and Visual Works for The 2025 Daria Fanworks Awards!


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Maude Findlay and Janet Barch.

A Very Colorful Way to Celebrate

It seems that Jane has taken National Step in a Puddle and Splash Your Friends Day to a particularly artistic extreme, but I'm pretty sure she'll regret it as soon as Daria gets her hands on her. If you decide to splash one of your friends, I highly recommend sticking to ordinary water. It might save your life.

I suppose if you want to celebrate National Milk Day by splashing your friends with milk, then you could do that as well. However, bear in mind that milk is only relaxing when you drink it, like Jake did. And then it stops being relaxing as soon as you think about the cholesterol content.

Fanfic Update!

• The Bathroom Door Opens, by redpink (part 1): "The bathroom is quiet except for the soft sound of running water filling the bathtub."


• The best trap, by redpink (part 1): "Sunlight filters through the window blinds, casting soft golden stripes across the bedspread."


• Breath, by redpink (part 1): "The soft hum of the outside world is muffled by the thick curtains drawn across Jane's windows."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "After sunset, the Enigma looked out over Lawndale from her roof. The normal appearance of the suburbia belied the tensions and changes that were happening."

Watch Out For Lightning Bolts!

Mr. DeMartino has clearly chosen to be a wrathful deity for Play God Day, which is really bad news for Kevin. If you aren't omnipotent, then you can at least pretend to be a god by writing a story using people you know in real life. "Take people you know and have them do whatever you want. I'd make them crawl, I tell you. Crawl!"

If you'd rather rise to the heavens in a more literal sense, then why not celebrate Balloon Ascension Day? As long as you make sure you go with an experienced balloonist, like Arno, and listen to him if he expresses doubts about the cumulus clouds.

On second thought, maybe just don't bother, because then you can observe Quitters Day! But now that I think about it, a real quitter wouldn't participate in Quitters Day at all. So I guess it's lose-lose no matter what?

Fandom News!

• Shellfishing is allowed in Boston Harbor again.


• Nominations are open for the 2025 Daria Fanworks Awards for Written Works and Visual Works.

Sweet Janey Brown

Looks like Jane has taken up a new sport for Harlem Globetrotter's Day, but I don't think she has to worry about losing any games. The Globetrotters' games tend to be a bit...one-sided.

I just hope she doesn't live up to Daria's predictions of her as an athlete, because it's also World Pass Gas Day. Apparently she can run like the wind and break wind, but can she dribble a basketball like the wind?

Meanwhile, I hope Noah Barkman is having a pleasant International Programmers’ Day, or at least that he's still employed. Having a tech startup right before the tech bubble popped is not a great long-term strategy.

Fanfic Update!

• A Tale of Two Kitties: Not in the Syllabus, by SSuperNovaCO (part 2): "'Ow, my tail!' Daria exclaimed as much as she could in her dull tone. 'My whiskers! You’re stepping on my whiskers, mroooow!' Brittany complained."

This Holiday is For the Birds

Helen and Jake seem to be enjoying National Bird Day, though I can't imagine why. Still, better to just leave them to it. If nothing else, at least Helen is taking a break from the firm for once.

I'd like to wish a happy National Screenwriters Day to the Daria writing staff for providing me and the rest of fandom for lots of fun and plenty of laughs throughout the course of the show. Whatever you're doing now, know that we appreciate your work!

Fandom News!

• The list of completed 2025 Daria Fanfiction has been updated again!

Zzzzzzzz....

I would wish Trent a happy Festival of Sleep Day but I think he's going to sleep straight through it. For those in fandom who are awake, feel free to take a nap guilt-free!

In fact, going to sleep might be a safe bet because if you're sleeping then you won't have to suffer embarrassment on Humiliation Day. Unless you fall asleep in public, that is.

For those who would rather stay awake, you could celebrate JRR Tolkien Day by reading The Lord of the Rings. You could also make a candle shaped like a hobbit, but then you'd run the risk of celebrating Humiliation Day if it comes out looking like a misshapen lump of wax like Jake's did.

Fanfic Update!

• Mirror Mirror (1995), by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "Louisa looked in the mirror. The strange thing was happening again. But that wasn’t what was important."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 13): "Andrea arrived at the Historia for breakfast. 'I’m still not sure why you wanted to be here this early,' her mother complained."

Could Someone Turn Down the...Everything?

I'm thinking Daria may have overindulged last night when celebrating the New Year, and by "overindulged" I mean "stayed up late reading a book or watching 'Sick, Sad World.'" Hopefully a bit of uninterrupted rest will help, but that's hard to come by with Daria's luck.

If you overindulged in the area of alcoholic beverages, then I wish you a very happy National Hangover Day! Sorry, I'll try to keep my voice down.

In the spirit of unity, I'll also share that today is Global Family Day, but don't tell Daria that. She has enough headaches with her immediate family without dragging the rest of the world into it.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Brigitte Bardot.


• The 2025 Daria Fanfiction list has been updated!

Bringing Home the Bacon

I don't think Jamie's going to enjoy his stint as a pig, especially because today is Bacon Day. According to Daria Day 1998, bacon was a common side dish for the Morgendorffers' dinner along with what looked like lasagna but was really "concentrated protein and starch nutrition squares."

I hope that Jake gets to play a few rounds of golf in honor of the anniversary of Tiger Woods's birth on this day in 1975. Jodie, on the other hand, would probably rather do anything else after having to put up with parent-mandated golf lessons.

Fanfic Update!

• Marriage, by redpink (part 1): "The room is quiet, dimly lit by the soft glow of a bedside lamp. Daria and Jane lie together on Jane's bed, wrapped in each other's arms."


• Scarlett the Fairy Annoys the Navy, by Aloysius (COMPLETE!): "It was a cold winter day, and Scarlett the Fairy was flying over the seashore somewhere in the vicinity of the Maryland/Delaware border. Our young heroine liked to come to the area and look over the Atlantic Ocean even while it was really still too cold to do so."


• The Thud on the Stairs, by redpink (part 1): "The house is quiet except for the faint hum of the dryer downstairs. Sunlight filters through the living‑room windows, catching dust motes drifting lazily in the air."

Jacks Are Wild

Mack is hoping that someone will join him for Card Playing Day, but I don't recommend wagering the tender liver of a newborn babe. If he really wants a game partner, he could try the Future Morgendorffers as they sit down to a nice family card game of Hearts.

If you're feeling creative today, you could join in on National Short Film Day! The sky's the limit on topics: a scathing expose of Quinn Morgendorffer, a documentary about a supermarket strike, or a couple running to each other in slow-motion. Just don't ask Trent to provide the music.

I, on the other hand, would far rather celebrate National Chocolate Candy Day. Of course, that's how I feel every day, so that isn't anything unusual.

Hitting Below the Designer Belt

Either Stacy is celebrating Boxing Day in an unusual fashion (pun intended) or she has taken exactly as much of Sandi's crap as she's willing to take. I hope Daria doesn't decide to get the old refrigerator box out again, partly because it might bring back bad memories and partly because it's too cold to sit outside in a cardboard box.

On the other hand, a little solitude at any temperature might be the better option if Quinn decides to celebrate National Whiners Day today. I'm sure she has plenty of subjects to whine about, from not getting her preferred Christmas gifts to Stacy wearing a crop top with baggy shorts.

I assume that the Guptys are celebrating Kwanzaa today, based on the presence of "Kaneesha's First Kwanzaa" in their book collection. Unless they've decided that Kwanzaa is too commercial and rots your teeth or something, that is.

Fanfic Update!

• Beautiful love moments, by redpink (part 1): "Soft light filters through the curtains. The room is quiet, cozy. Pillows are scattered across the bed like clouds."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 12): "In the Historia café, Andrea breathed a sigh of relief, although Mina Rodgers had yet to arrive. She then saw Quinn re-enter."


• The Times, They Are Deranging, by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "'Excuse me, are you Ray?' The young man who turned toward Helen looked exactly like she'd expected: scruffy, shifty, and not in the slightest bit trustworthy. She suspected that he had a promising career ahead of him as a crooked businessman who embezzled heavily from the company."

"X" Marks the Holiday!

Everyone needs to wish "X" a very merry Christmas Eve, because he's got a big day tomorrow and the pressure's on! He's got to spread love and joy to the whole world, and considering that the whole world is (gestures vaguely), I have to say good luck on that.

If anyone still has gifts to buy, then you'd better hurry because it's Last-Minute Shopper's Day and you don't want to get into a fistfight over the last pair of slipper socks. The Fashion Club never has to worry about this one, because they stay prepared by shopping at every available moment.

For those who don't have to run out for a shopping trip, just sit back and relax with a tasty beverage for National Eggnog Day! Just check the expiration date first, because the last time someone drank out of season nog they ended up having the mother of all hallucinations.

Don't Hold an Opera Singer Too Tightly in Your Hands

If Daria wants to try out for a role in Giacomo Puccini's famous opera "Madama Butterfly," then she might want to check the source material more carefully. However, it's a nice gesture in honor of the late composer's birth on this day in 1858.

She would be much better suited to observing National Short Person Day, because at five foot two she definitely qualifies. Being the same height myself, I know I'll be celebrating! From down here. Possibly getting a stepladder if I need something off a high shelf.

Helen, meanwhile, should get out the bread machine to celebrate National Date Nut Bread Day! I don't think the holiday cares if the bread was hand-kneaded or how much soul it has.

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 11): "Quinn continued watching the broadcast, even as Donna kept changing the channels."


• The Times, They Are Deranging, by Kristen Bealer (part 2): "Helen snuggled against Jake, breathing in the scent of stale sweat and patchouli."

Fa La LA La La!

I see that Alternate Universe Daria and her Alternate Universe Boyfriend are enjoying Go Caroling Day, but I hope Alternate Universe Daria's singing voice is better then Regular Universe Daria's voice, or else the carolers might find their Christmas cheer somewhat diminished.

It's too bad she decided to go with a plain black coat, though, because it's National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day and she really missed an opportunity. The opportunity would be to horrify Quinn with terrible fashion choices.

When the singing is over and everyone goes inside to warm up, it might be time to celebrate Games Day. Daria could play a friendly family game of Hearts or utterly decimate her parents at Scrabble again.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Anthony Geary and Gil Gerard.

Stacy in a Bottle

Stacy is either experiencing a mild wardrobe malfunction or she's honoring Christina Aguilera on the singer's 45th birthday. It's very likely that the Fashion Club would be fans of the pop star, although I doubt anyone could ever take the place in their hearts that belongs to Boys 'R' Guys.

Today is also the anniversary of the birth of Joseph Stalin in 1878, which is quite a switch from modern musicians. Then again, I have never heard the Man of Steel's singing voice, so maybe it isn't such a stretch after all. I'm sure Daria and Tom would love to take the opportunity to share more fun facts about him and the rest of their favorite dictators, as long as Jane doesn't have to listen to it.

Personally, I think I'll just celebrate Bake Cookies Day instead. That way I don't have to worry about pop music or authoritarians; just tasty treats.

Fanfic Update!

• I'm Scheming of a White Christmas, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Quinn was giving her visibly hung over sons, Tommy and Timmy, a major scolding for what she'd caught them doing the previous night."


• Strange Days in Lawndale, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Elsewhere in Lawndale, someone else was having a similar reaction. Jane Lane was incredulous. It was impossible. But it was there. A flying saucer, in Lawndale."


• The Times, They Are Deranging, by Kristen Bealer (part 1): "Helen Barksdale shut the door of the dorm--her dorm!--behind her parents and let out a deep breath."


• When Worlds Collide, by SlytherinTeam (part 1): "'Nevermind, return to your world and I’ll return to mine,' Jane Lane had told Quinn Morgendorffer once in high school."

A Cynic in Possession of a Good Fortune

Daria and Quinn are engaging in a bit of cosplay in honor of Jane Austen's birth on this day in 1775. The sisterly bonding is probably good for them, but any moment now Quinn is going to realize that she's wearing fashions that are over 200 years out of date and panic.

As for me, I will happily celebrate National Chocolate Covered Anything Day, although I have to question what "anything" means. Rocks? Hubcaps? Gerbils? Just to be safe, I'll stick with things like peanut butter or, better yet, additional chocolate.

I hope Kevin knows that today is National Sports Day, although I can't imagine how today would differ from any other day for him. Not that he's likely to recognize any sport besides football, anyway.

Fandom News!

• tjdolf has found some Daria enamel pins for sale online.


• Erin M shares some trivia about Ted's voice actor.


• R.I.P., Rob Reiner.

Have a Wonderful Festival of Lights!

Rabbi Trent is wishing everyone a happy Hanukkah, as the Jewish festival begins tonight at sundown. Gotta say, Trent as a rabbi makes a certain kind of sense as a career choice when the holidays begin in the evening rather than first thing in the morning. "The night holds the key."

For those gentile fans who still want to be festive, you could celebrate Roast Chestnuts Day by cooking some chestnuts over an open fire. If you need to get some chestnuts first, just check out It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty World and munch a bunch of your nutty friend's lunch. If Daria doesn't smile, then the nuts are free!

If you don't care for nuts (or if you're allergic), then you could go to Chez Pierre and celebrate National Bouillabaisse Day instead. Warning: this holiday not recommended for people with shellfish or seafood allergies.

Fanfic Update!

• I'm Scheming of a White Christmas, by wilddogjj (parts 1 and 2): "Outside there was snow on the ground and Christmas decorations on the house. Inside, Quinn, Jim and the triplets were decorating the Christmas tree while Jim's brother, Chris, sat on the couch nursing a beer while watching TV." (Part 2)


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 10): "'Why wouldn’t I?' Anders asked as she allowed Fields in. 'Your boss has ruined my career! Interviewing SpiderGirl was going to be a stepping stone, but now it’s a stumbling block.'"

Is the Price Right?

Jesse's wishing a happy birthday to the late Bob Barker, born on this day in 1923. He'd also like to remind everyone to spay and neuter their pets, and wonders if "Come on down" would be a good replacement name for Mystik Spiral.

Kevin, meanwhile, will hopefully know better than to pester Mack about his summer job, even though it's National Ding-a-Ling Day. However, I suspect Mack was less bothered by the ringing bell than he was about the feral children flinging ice cream at him.

It's not quite Christmas yet, but X is insistent that we all celebrate Gingerbread House Day today. He really needs someone to make him one of those little cottages all made out of gingerbread.

Fandom News!

• The 2025 Daria Fanfiction list has been posted.


• Discuss this year's Daria fanfics and artwork that you think should be nominated for awards!

Have a Squeaky Holiday!

Let's all wish Roger the Mouse a very happy International Animal Rights Day, or at least a day without post-traumatic stress disorder. Are mouse therapists a thing? Because I think I know of someone who needs one.

We shouldn't forget about people when we talk about rights, because today is also Human Rights Day! Human rights have become even more important than ever before, so let's observe today with hope and determination.

Quinn's would-be admirer Corey will be happy to know that he gets his own day today, National Corey Day. He'll be less pleased to know that he's barely on Quinn's radar, especially when Joey, Jeffy, and Jamie are around.

Fanfic Update!

• Dungeons and Ditzes, by AngryKnife, Another Knife (AngryKnife) (part 2): "The TV hummed, and the announcer spoke over a dramatic guitar riff: 'Suburban Book Club Accidentally Summons Literary-Criticism-Demon During Discussion of Beach Read. A Sick Sad World Exclusive!'"


• First Crushes, by starbutterflyz (COMPLETE!): "'What are you working on?' Jane peeked over her canvas to see Daria lying on her bed upside down, channel surfing with the remote."


• Together, by Iron Trilobite (COMPLETE!): "Daria awoke in the early morning dawn and realized this morning was very unusual."

One...Two...Tree!

Daria would be celebrating National Christmas Tree Day, but she's got more important things to worry about. She can enjoy the holiday once she's dealt with the unexpected hostage situation going on in the closet.

If you want a Christmas tree but don't have one yet, better get shopping and see if you can find someone to help you pick one out, since it's also National Salesperson Day. If you meet Theresa, be extra nice, because no one should have to deal with the Fashion Club as often as she does.

Meanwhile, perhaps the Yaegers will observe Pretend To Be A Time Traveler Day by driving around in a classic Volkswagen Beetle and wearing clothing from the 1960s. If they did, then Daria's theory about the VW being a time machine could be proven correct!

They Are Also Minors Who Are Mining!

Joey, Jeffy, and Jamie are prepared to search the deepest depths of the Earth for a suitable gift for Quinn, thanks to today being National Miners Day. They'll want to clean up before they offer it to her, though, because the "Ewww!" that she'd emit upon seeing them in their current state could probably be heard halfway across the country.

Today is a sad music anniversary, as the tragic Altamont Free Concert took place on this day in 1969. Despite the concert being free, Jake managed to not only pay for tickets but also get a refund. God only knows how.

Happy birthday to deadpan comedian Steven Wright, born on this day in 1955. Although Daria's deadpan humor is brilliant, Steven Wright's influence can more clearly be seen in Luhrmann, seen only once (in "I Don't") and never again.

Fanfic Update!

• An argument of friendship, by redpink (part 1): "DARIA and JANE lie on opposite ends of Jane's bed, backs against the wall, legs stretched out."


• Artifact in Lawndale (Crossovers Still Crossing Over), by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "'So what is in common between the Lawndale Artefacts?' Myka asked. 'Good Question,' Artie replied. 'Actually, there is little in common, other than the details I told Claudia earlier.'"


• Bathroom breaks, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit, quiet except for the soft hum of the streetlight outside."


• Best BFF ever, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit, a soft amber glow from a desk lamp casting long shadows across the walls."


• The closeness, by redpink (part 1): "The rain outside softens to a whisper. The room is still, wrapped in quiet intimacy."


• Comforting a little girl, by redpink (part 1): "The sky is soft with fading light. DARIA walks alone, hands in her jacket pockets, her boots tapping rhythmically against the pavement."


• Harry Potter Morgendorffer, by Meester_Lee (part 46): "The buildings of Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry just beyond the end of a short bus ride from the railroad station at North Adams and the narrow, winding driveway up Mount Greylock."


• Heart-shaped pizza lovers, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit, quiet except for the soft hum of the night. DARIA and JANE lie side by side on Jane's bed."


• A horrible moment between friendship, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit, soft shadows dancing across the walls. DARIA lies curled against JANE on the bed, her cheek gently pressed into Jane's chest like a pillow."


• Like pillow and blanket, by redpink (part 1): "Soft lamplight spills across the room. Posters line the walls, paintbrushes rest in jars, and a sketchbook lies open on the floor."


• A lullaby threat, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit by a soft lamp on the nightstand. Posters line the walls, and scattered sketchbooks rest on the floor."


• A moment in Alabama, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit by a soft lamp on the nightstand. DARIA and JANE lie together on Jane's bed, wrapped in a quiet cocoon of comfort."


• The New Girl, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Teddy Carbone was in the most awkward situation of his young life. His science partner, Amy, whom he has a crush on has been using him as a patsy for a drug operation. Needless to say, Teddy was most displeased."


• Slices, by redpink (part 1): "Soft lamplight spills across the room, casting a golden hue over the bed where DARIA and JANE lie side by side."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 9): "Daria then made her play. 'I have compiled newspaper reports of SpiderGirl’s activities from November, through to just before Groundhog Day. There are also excerpts from interviews I have conducted with some of Lawndale High’s seniors over the past few weeks. They paint a picture of a rather confident young lady who isn’t afraid to talk to people. What I saw when I watched last night’s interview was not that.'"


• Tickling bodies, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit by a single lamp on the dresser. Posters and sketches line the walls."


• What a wonderful world, by redpink (part 1): "The room is dimly lit, soft shadows dancing across the walls."

You Know What, Helen? I DO Like My Cookies Undercooked!

It looks like Helen and Rita are prepared to bury the hatchet under a pile of cookie dough in honor of National Cookie Day! However, I'd recommend skipping the oven and just splitting the cookie dough. Not only does it taste better raw, but then they don't have to get into arguments about cookie size and baking time.

Happy birthday to the late Chester Greenwood, who was born on this day in 1858. Greenwood's most famous accomplishment was the invention of earmuffs, which would one day lead to Quinn's near-death at the hands of her classmates. I don't think he had pink ostrich feathers in mind when he created them, but who can say for sure?

While you keep your ears warm, don't forget about your feet because it's also National Sock Day! If you find yourself missing one, be sure to check Brittany Taylor's laundry room and, if it isn't there, try Jane Lane's shirt. That static cling is really something.

Let's Not Even Talk About Those Socks

Jesse looks extra preppy for International Sweater Vestival, but you wouldn't think someone so anti-shirt would really wear such a thing. Then again, when he told Trent he owed him a shirt he didn't specify what kind of shirt Trent had to give him.

Quinn should probably see if one of the cuter technical types from school could give her some pointers on computer use because it's World Computer Literacy Day! These days, with technology being pretty much everywhere, failing to be tech-savvy is a real fashion don't.

Be sure to tip your server well because it's Bartender Appreciation Day and the last thing you want to do is piss off the person giving you your drink. Bartenders were an occasional sight on Daria, from the less-than-helpful man at Mad Dawg's bar in "Speedtrapped" to the Mai Tai-making fellow who witnessed Mr. O'Neill and Mr. DeMartino bonding in Is It College Yet?

Fanfic Update!

• Add Max Diem, by Ranchoth (COMPLETE!): "Nothing in the rear view—she couldn’t see anything in the rearview past the rooster tails of dust."


• But You Always Knew the Truth, by riotsquirrrl (COMPLETE!): "'You have to want something for Christmas, Morgendorffer.' Daria shrugged. 'More pencils maybe?'"


• Jane's Tedition (The Ted Zone), by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "'Who shot the hippies? Who locked them in a zoo? Who gagged the beatniks? Who filled their mouths with glue? Who crushed the bohos? Who turned their work to poo? Hey, Mr. Normal, it was you!'"


• Scarlett Investigates, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "Scarlett O’Connell hadn’t expected to be investigating a sabotaged play. She just wanted to learn to improve her art while investigating minor campus mysteries."

Being a Swiftie Before It Was Cool

Daria doesn't seem to be enjoying the anniversary of Jonathan Swift's birth on this day in 1667, even though reenacting a scene from Gulliver's Travels is a pretty clever idea. Maybe if she had a (very large) book then she wouldn't be so unhappy. The good news is that if Quinn gets on her nerves, relief is just a finger flick away!

I have to say that the tiny Lawndale people are doing a terrible job of celebrating National Personal Space Day. I think that under normal circumstances this would be one of Daria's favorite holidays, but under normal circumstances no one ties her up so she can't move. Or at least I assume that isn't something that happens to her often.

If 17th-century satirists aren't your thing, then you could skip ahead almost 200 years and celebrate the anniversary of Mark Twain's birth on this day in 1835. Similar sharp tongue and quick wit, but with somewhat different hairstyles. I know Daria's a fan of his thanks to her nightshirt, but I think Trent leans more towards Hanna-Barbera and Huckleberry Hound.

Fandom News!

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Mr. Potato'Neill

Apparently Mr. O'Neill is taking Make Your Own Head Day to a bit of an extreme, but it's not like this new head could be much worse than his old one. Just don't let Quinn see him, as she isn't a big fan of potatoes. They remind her of that that movie, "Angela's Ashtray."

I wouldn't worry, though, because Quinn will most likely be busy shopping on Black Friday, if the crowds don't frighten her off. On the other hand, she could celebrate Buy Nothing Day instead, although we all know that isn't going to happen.

I hope everyone has a pleasant Red Planet Day, a holiday in honor of Mars. Artie might want to avoid observing his one, however, even if it might mean a visit from alien space babes. Hey, if atomic Communists come from Mars, does that mean Mars really is the red planet?

Fanfic Update!

• Between the Holidays, by riotsquirrrl (COMPLETE!): "St. Patrick's Day looked down at his lunch in disgust. 'Peas again? What I wouldn't give for a decent boiled dinner in this place. With the carrots perfectly tender and the pork aged just right. But no, we have to eat this shitty English colonizer food.'"


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 8): "Sandi hung up from the third member of the AV Club she had called. 'No one,' she murmured. Then the phone rang again."


• Tomorrow belongs to who?, by DrT (COMPLETE!): "Jana Farhbahn studied her friend over her easel as she sat, pretending to read. Finally sighing, Jana said, 'You haven’t turned the page in ages. Is something wrong with it, or with you?'"

Is the Cake a Lie?

Quinn is showing off her (very unlikely) baking chops in time for International Cake Day, and while I absolutely love cake I would hesitate to try anything made by Quinn. Not only do I doubt her ability to perform any task more strenuous than applying makeup, but any daughter of Jake "my tongue is black" Morgendorffer isn't likely to be great in the kitchen.

Instead, I think Quinn would do well to go hang out at Cashman's for Shopping Reminder Day. Of course, Quinn (and the Fashion Club as a whole) would never need a reminder to go shopping.

Helen will, of course, be spending the day at work because it's both National Law Day and a day that ends in "Y." Eric might be there if he isn't in rehab, but just because it's National Eric Day doesn't mean Helen is obligated to put up with his nonsense.

Soon He'll Progress to Cave Drawings and Civilization Will Be On Its Way!

I'm a bit concerned to see that Kevin has chosen to celebrate Evolution Day by going in the wrong direction, although for him it wasn't actually a long journey. If he goes back a bit further, he'll be pleased to discover that he's become a monkey--after all, he likes monkeys!

Jake might think twice about going to another branding conference, even if it is National Brand Day. The last time he went, Daria ended up in a downward spiral and things got weird. Besides, it really isn't fair to those poor cows.

For anyone out there with an usual skill, be sure to enjoy Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day! Whether it's twirling hair around your finger and looking vacant or having a skull good for crushing beer cans against, be proud of yourself!

Fanfic Update!

• The New Girl, by wilddogjj (part 2): "Amy was in the backyard talking with her best friend back in LA. 'Man, I hate it here! Wish I was back wit' the crew.'"


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 7): "It was still a half hour before the Friday night show would start when Anders saw Fields arrive. She went up to her. 'One of the assistants will show you the way to the dressing room,' she said."

One Car, Two One-Shot Characters, and Three Holidays

It appears that Daria has already celebrated Go For a Ride Day, but we still have no idea who the mystery driver was. Perhaps Trent and Jane will do the same, because as Jane says, "You and I never go for rides anymore. We need to go for more rides." As long as it doesn't end with hair dye and tiger stripes.

Good news for Daria's one-person fan club, because it's also National Amelia Day! Maybe she can spend the day following Daria around, or better yet, telling Skip Stevens off. That's always fun!

If she needs a new jerk to yell at, she could always pick Jane's ex Nathan because it's National Nathan Day and I can think of few people on Daria that deserves their own holiday less.

Smoke on the (Toilet) Water

It appears that someone in the girls' bathroom has chosen the wrong way to celebrate Great American Smokeout, because you're supposed to take the opportunity to quit smoking cigarettes. Then again, it could just be another Tommy Sherman exorcism, which I would completely support.

I wonder if Mr. DeMartino ever observes Future Teachers of America Day by wishing the worst possible fate upon his least favorite students: a desire that they, too, will one day have to teach idiots. I doubt Daria will be among that group, as her brief stint as a substitute probably scared her off the profession for good.

Jane should know that today is International Hug a Runner Day, so she should try to get all of the hugs she can get. However, it might be a good idea to shower first if she just got back from a run. Or at least apply some deodorant.

Fanfic Update!

• Harry Potter Morgendorffer, by Meester_Lee (part 45): "She was in the middle of some dream she didn’t remember when she felt someone’s hand on her shoulder. “Daria, wake up!” said the Quinn-like voice. She opened her eyes and saw that it was Quinn."


• Is it The Purge Yet?, by darialalalalala (part 5): "'So, what should we do with Kevin now that Brittnay is gone?' Daria asked. 'Ehh, we'll just throw him out the window.' 'Alright then.'"


• The New Girl, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Mrs. DiBenedetto, a pudgy middle-aged science teacher with glasses, was addressing her seventh-grade science class. The class includes Teddy Carbone (Quinn and Jim's son), Rachel White (Jamie and Nicole's daughter) and Kevin Thompson Junior (Kevin and Brittany's son...actually, Daryl and Brittany's son but everyone pretends otherwise so the boy doesn't find out that he's the product of an extramarital affair)."

Supernatural Phenomena is Really Shiny!

Not sure if Tiffany is celebrating Occult Day or if she's just decided to go all-in on the "black is slenderizing" philosophy. At least the candle doesn't make her look fat, although I think she was a little too heavy-handed with her makeup.

Quinn, on the other hand, would far rather celebrate National Princess Day. After all, she's far better known for pink than black, unless she's trying to cover up a neck zit. Shhh...you didn't hear about it from me!

Meanwhile, it's possible that Noah Barkman is enjoying National Entrepreneur's Day, but if the dotcom bubble hit him as hard as it did many others like him, then I doubt it. Jake was probably very lucky to have gotten out when he did!

"The greasy fry, it cannot lie. Its truth is written on your thighs."

Daria and Jane are waiting patiently for their turn to celebrate National Fast Food Day, but I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see if they'll choose fries or things. Maybe they'll splurge and get both!

Switching topics from greasy to slimy, today is also National Charles Day, which Upchuck would be wise to observe by keeping his mouth shut. Especially around anyone female.

If he chooses not to take my advice, I hope for his sake that his intended target is celebrating International Tolerance Day. In that they might be willing to offer him a ten-second headstart before they retaliate.

Fanfic Update!

• Q's Visitor, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Quinn and the triplets were seated at a table. Each of them had a massive pizza in front of them. 'Wow,' said Tommy, 'This is really cool, Mom!'"


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 6): "After talking to Quinn, Brittany decided to seek out Andrea before lunch ended. ‘It’s barely a week since the last time she helped,’ she thought as she left the library and looked around the courtyard. ‘But is she in the cafeteria?’ she wondered."

Don't Guac It 'til You've Tried It!

I see that Jake has no intention of missing the guacamole on National Spicy Guacamole Day, but I hope he leaves some for the rest of the family. Especially because Jake's track record on spicy foods is...not great.

At least he isn't overdoing it on sweets, which would be a terrible idea on World Diabetes Day. Please keep the following advice in mind:

Mr. O'Neill: You know what they say, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.

Jane: Not if you're diabetic.

Much of the Daria cast will be glad to know that today is International Girls Day, although by now the "girls" from the show are middle aged. And doesn't that just make you feel old?

Just Wait Until He Finds Out You Can Have Pizza with the Works AND Anchovies!

Ted is enjoying another new experience by trying a pizza with many toppings in honor of National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, and I suppose next he'll try pizza with anchovies. I'm sure neither pizza will be able to hold a candle to the wonder that is gum, however.

Let's wish a happy birthday to the sculptor Auguste Rodin, who was born on this day in 1840. This will be welcome news to Jane, who was known to dabble in sculpting herself, but also a good opportunity to check out Steve Taylor's jockey statue to see if it's a genuine Rodin or a forgery.

Today is also the anniversary of Grace Kelly's birth in 1929, which is notable to fandom in that Jane compared Quinn to the late actress/princess in "The Teachings of Don Jake": "Lemme get this straight. You, Jake, Helen, and Princess Grace are going camping? Like in the woods camping?"

Fanfic Update!

• Heavenly Wine and Roses, by riotsquirrrl (part 11): "'This had better be worth it,' Daria says as she trudges along the nature path behind Jane. The other girl looks over her shoulder, saying 'C’mon, we’re almost there!'"


• Help Wanted! Rodent Problem!, by Doggieboy (COMPLETE!): "I don't know where to begin, and I'm not sure what to do. Nothing I have ever done has prepared me for this. Here goes. We have a rodent problem."


• Q's Visitor, by wilddogjj (parts 1 and 2): "Stacy Ruttheimer (nee Rowe) was sitting at the kitchen table having an angry conversation over the phone." (Part 2)


• Strange Days in Lawndale, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "It was an ordinary day in Lawndale. Daria Morgendorffer was resting in her room. But suddenly her sister, Quinn, burst into the room in a hurry."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Daria's Stolen Notebook), by Azul (COMPLETE!): "Every day is the same connotation. Tension rips and molars brux and there is pain on redux coated in something important and not like Alzheimer's fog over your son's face."

Daria Muppetdorffer

Daria looks way too happy to be dressed as a Muppet, but in fairness it's Sesame Street Day and it's hard to be grumpy around the Sesame Street crew--Oscar aside, that is. For a Sesame Street/Daria crossover that's both sweet and funny, read D is for Daria by Mike Xeno.

Don't forget to...uh...do something...what was it? Oh, right! Remember to celebrate National Forget-Me-Not Day! I don't think Mr. O'Neill will be celebrating this one, given his absolutely terrible memory for student's names. Aside from, oddly enough, Trent Lane.

Just as long as Mr. O'Neill doesn't forget the name of Lawndale High's science teacher, because if he forgets Ms. Barch then today will not be World Science Day for Peace and Development. The "science" part might be there, as an experiment on how much pain her boyfriend can handle before passing out.

It Kind of Looks Like a Bird Wearing a Top Hat To Me

Squint hard and see if you can recognize a herd of beautiful wild ponies running free across the plains in that inkblot, because it's the anniversary of Hermann Rorschach's birth on this day in 1884! I'm sure he would be just thrilled to know that his test was still being used in pop culture cartoons over a century after his birth.

Another birthday boy, Bram Stoker, was born on this day in 1847. Stoker, of course, was known for chronicling the life of internationally known celebrity vampire Dracula. Or maybe that was his brother Brad I'm thinking of.

Finally, Margaret Mitchell, author of the book Gone with the Wind, was born exactly 125 years ago today. Maybe Daria and Quinn will sit down and watch the movie together, perhaps with a snack of Johnny cakes courtesy of Jake's "top-rail number one" Civil War-era cooking.

Fanfic Update!

• Harry Potter Morgendorffer, by Meester_Lee (part 44): "The days continued to count down to the day when Daria and the rest of her family would set off for New York City. Miracle of miracles, Quinn remained on her good behavior. Daria didn’t know whether it was because her Mom’s threats or if Quinn was saving the big one for the day that she and the rest of the family would set off for the airport."


• Scares the Beef, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Chad and Angie are asleep in Chad's bed. Chad wakes up, turns over and stares at Angie. Angie starts to wake up." (Part 5) (Part 6)


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 5): "The Sun was rising when the Shadow arrived back at Casa Lane and changed to the ordinary Jane. She saw that Trent and Jesse were in the kitchen making a snack."

She Shoots, She Scores!

Jodie's sporting a new look and a new hobby for National Basketball Day, but I don't think it will go over well with her parents. They probably won't care too much about the hair dye and tattoos, but they'll be very concerned that basketball playing might take time away from the hundreds of other activities she's supposed to be doing right now.

It might be some comfort to Jodie's mother that today is National Michele Day, although I suspect that she'll find something to be offended about. It's one of her biggest strengths, after all.

Maybe Andrew Landon can help soothe her ruffled feathers by fixing her a nice meal, especially because it's Men Make Dinner Day. We can only hope that Jake decides not to celebrate this one, because I don't think Helen, Daria, or Quinn want blackened tongues tonight.

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Shall We Eat Some UNAUTHORIZED Chocolate?

Daria and Tom are fully immersed in celebrating National Candy Day, and I'm happy to join them! Let's hope that the local stores decide to help out by having plenty of post-Halloween candy sales going on.

Once your sweet tooth is sated, you could do something sweet for others in honor of National Day of Community Service. I wouldn't recommend reading to seniors, though, as they can be a pretty tough crowd, especially if you don't have a pleasant and cheerful voice.

While we're on the subject of voices, let's wish Wendy Hoopes a happy 53rd birthday! Hoopes voiced Jane Lane, Helen Morgendorffer, and Quinn Morgendorffer, which means that in some episodes she did a large share of the speaking!

Fanfic Update!

• But You Always Knew the Truth, by riotsquirrrl (part 11): "Jane's train was late. Daria kept pacing up and down the corridor of the station. She had a book to read."


• Daria Enrolls At Nevermore: An Experiment, by Meester_Lee (part 19): "Helen watched as the sheriff and deputies took Gomez Addams away. 'Daria, does this sort of thing happen every week?' said Sirius. 'Not every week,' Daria replied."

Check Out That Beautiful En Pointe!

Mr. DeMartino is showing an unusually graceful side and a surprise hidden talent to celebrate World Ballet Day, and even in a tutu I feel like he still has more dignity than he ever felt as a teacher. Perhaps Daria could take the opportunity to learn the skill, if only to make peeing in the woods easier in spite of the pervert squirrels.

Someone should tell Quinn that it's the anniversary of Marie Antoinette's birth in 1755. She can tell everyone about the champagne glasses and the French tabloids, but perhaps she ought to leave out the part about the Marquis de Sade.

I hope those who live in countries that observe it enjoyed the extra hour of sleep we got due to Daylight Saving Time ending. I'm sure it will make up for the annoyance of resetting all the clocks, trying to readjust to the new schedule, and not seeing the sun for more than a few hours per day.

Trick or Treat!

I think Dawn might have missed the point of Carve a Pumpkin Day, but I give her plenty of credit for embracing the full spirit of the day. Still, I have to assume it would have been much easier to just buy a pumpkin and carve it. Far be it for me to micromanage, though.

If you want to celebrate by carving a pumpkin of your own, then you'd better hurry because today is also Halloween and you clearly waited until the very last minute to do your holiday decorating. Let's hope that the personification of Halloween doesn't take offense, as I bet she can be absolutely vicious with toilet paper and shaving cream.

Finally, Upchuck might be interested to know that today is National Magic Day, because putting on a magic show was one of the few talents he displayed that wasn't super creepy. Don't forget to tithe your earnings to Lawndale High!

Fanfic Update!

• Brooke Tries to Join the Fashion Club, by Buffcoat (COMPLETE!): "The scene opens with Brooke, a rich girl with a bandaged nose and swollen lips, standing outside the Lawndale High fashion club's meeting room. She's dressed in a revealing outfit, complete with a tight mini-skirt and a low-cut top."


• Dumb Brunette, by Janepringles (part 1): "In the town of Lawndale, there isn't much to do after a long day of chatting, schoolwork and incessant idiots belching out carefully crafted sentences meant to grind gears and make you roll your eyes so hard they pop out of their sockets."


• I (Don't) Want to Be a Part of It, by ladyevil (part 12): "Daria entered her house. It was her house right? Some things looked a little off."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 4): "Penelope hung up the phone and looked at the incomplete article on her computer screen. She had gathered what information she could from various people who had been on the scene and she would just tell the facts."