Dancing Cheek to Mane

I see Daria is sharing a dance with the Lawndale Lions mascot for Tango Day, and I'm a little curious: when a teenager holding toilet paper dances with a giant lion, who leads? Anyway, this will probably be the shortest tango ever danced, because if Mr. O'Neill doesn't suffocate first, then Daria's boots will take care of the situation.

I'm sure Mr. O'Neill would rather endure the humiliation and restricted airflow of a lion costume than go on another Lawndale's Wilderness Adventure Club trip, even if it's International Mountain Day. If nothing else, at least he gets to keep his underwear on in the costume...or at least I hope he does.

Finally, I hope Helen withdraws that planned lawsuit against UNICEF, because today is the organization's birthday. It was created on this day in 1946 and has earned countless pennies to help children around the world since.

Fanfic Update!

• Bigger and Brighter and Wider Than Snow, by elle_stone (part 27): "Her parents used to live on a commune in the late 60s. Then the infighting got bad and the art started to suffer, so they dropped out, went up to Canada for a while–knowing them, without papers."


• How to Train Your Dragon: Berk in Time, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "The Riders landed on the top deck. They quickly noticed that it wasn’t made of wood, rather it seemed to be composed of some metal or other."


• Twas the Fight Before Christmas, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Snow is falling over Lawndale Mall. Combined with the Christmas decorations, this makes it visually obvious that it's December." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Unnamed story (Scenes no Daria fanfic should have), by roentgen (COMPLETE!): "(Daria, Quinn, Jane, and Stacy are stowaways on a luxury boat cruise. The problem is that the cruise is over, and without a passport to disembark they are in serious trouble.)"

Lost and Fraud?

Ms. Li is having a rough time because she just found out that it's International Anti-Corruption Day and that's going to put a real hitch in her usual pro-corruption plans. Still, I don't suppose she's actually going to do anything drastic like stop embezzling funds. Someone has to feed those bomb-sniffing dogs!

Has anyone seen Tad Gupty? It's Lost and Found Day and I'm hoping that he falls into the latter category right now. If not, just send Daria after him and remind her to look for windmills.

If she ends up at Art in the Park she should also look for some of those crying clowns because it's Weary Willie Day and he was the original sad clown. Fortunately, he was sad but not dead, so he could still clown and we'll still be freakin' friends.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the United Healthcare CEO murder.


• Talk about an article about disabled veterans from The Economist.

She's Looking Very...SHARP!

Brittany has traded in her pom poms for shears in order to celebrate the anniversary of the movie Edward Scissorhands, which was released on this day in 1990. I think she's even more unhappy about the loss of her cheerleader uniform, though, because black is hardly a cheerful color. Still, if anyone can keep her bouncity-bounce under these circumstances, she can.

I hope she doesn't try to send any long distance messages for Letter Writing Day, though. Not only will it be nearly impossible for her to hold a pencil now, but I'm sure her spelling and grammar are just awful.

There's also no way she's going to be able to celebrate International Civil Aviation Day by flying anywhere, because can you imagine trying to pass through a metal detector like that? Lucky for Jake and Daria on their next flight; it will be free of any squeaky voices...except for Jake's when they hit turbulence.

Fanfic Update!

• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 5): "'Welcome to Introduction to Nordic History of Aurora, where you'll learn that the period is much more complex than just "Vikings take over most of Aurora and then the Unification happens." I'm Professor Erik Brynjarsson.'"


• OverhydraTed (The Ted Zone), by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "'Good morning, Ted.' Ted looked up from his locker to see Jodie standing next to him, looking a little wary."


• Spider Quinn 13 Aftermath and Investigations, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 4): "'Ah!' Daria called out as she reached the ground a little quickly. 'Sorry,' the Enigma said. 'I’m still getting used to this.'"

Like, Hi-YAH!

Sandi is preparing her best martial arts moves in honor of International Ninja Day, but she's going to be disappointed when she finds out that the point of being a ninja is to remain unseen. For someone who loves to be the center of attention, this would probably be absolute torture.

Then again, with her newfound stealth she could find all sorts of new and creative ways to sabotage Quinn. For example, since it's also National Blue Jeans Day she could sneak electrical tape into the Morgendorffers' laundry and ruin Quinn's new new new jeans.

I would have hoped that she'd have chosen instead to use her abilities to do good deeds, especially because it's International Volunteer Day. On second thought, Sandi's attempts to help others don't go very well, as that plaque on the girl's restroom mirror can attest to.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the martial law declaration in South Korea and its aftermath.

It's Not National Roof ON Your Head Day!

Daria is checking the library to make sure she's still going to be able to celebrate National Roof over Your Head Day, which is wise considering Ms. Li's financial priorities when it comes to the school. It might be better to just get out of there and celebrate at home where the roof is more likely to stay put.

On the way she might consider doing a good deed or donating to a worthy cause because it's also National Day of Giving. The Fashion Club will be happy to chip in a belly chain and a pair of go-go boots but no one will be happy to receive them.

Perhaps Jake will take the opportunity to give Helen another candle for Candle Day! Hopefully this one will look like something other than a creepy misshapen hunk of wax.

Fanfic Update!

• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 4): "Freya emerged from her room, ready for the day. She took out the schedule."


• Spider Quinn 13 Aftermath and Investigations, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "Daria and Jane arrived at the Historia. 'So, what did you find?' Jane asked as they entered."

Maybe Try Painting With Your Other Hand For Awhile?

Jane had better suck it up and push past the pain in her arm because it's Day Without Art Day and I'm sure she doesn't want to celebrate. After all, any artist can tell you that the best art comes out of suffering.

Daria should probably offer her some encouraging words since it's National Women Support Women Day, but I don't think she actually knows any encouraging words. At the very least she could offer her some raw cookie dough and make a joke to take her mind off the pain.

Someone Tell Mrs. Johanssen!

Tom and Daria are completely right to celebrate National Chocolates Day, and even better that they're celebrating with someone else's chocolate. Why? Because that means that those are, in the words of Jane Lane, "authorized chocolate!" Bwa-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha. Don't feel too bad for Quinn, though, because there was zero chance she was going to touch any sugar-filled food in the first place. Me, on the other hand? As Daria fandom's most infamous chocoholic, I fully intend to indulge today!

Another holiday that Quinn probably won't participate in is National Day of Listening, because while that girl can certainly talk she's not so great at taking in information. Especially if it's coming from a teacher or a less-popular older sister.

Fanfic Update!

• All I Want For Christmas is Human Rights, by Lady Evil (COMPLETE!): "'You sure you wanna do this, Vixx?' Carl Gordon asked."

The Jodie Landon Experience

Jodie is getting in touch with her pyromaniac side to honor Jimi Hendrix on the anniversary of his birth on this day in 1942. Given the amount of stress that poor girl is under, I'm surprised that a guitar is the only thing she's setting fire to.

The audience is probably getting nervous about that open flame, which is fitting because it's Pins and Needles Day. Jake might decide to take a literal approach to the day by trying unsuccessfully to thread a needle. I think that camel is about to get truly angry.

Fandom News!

• Chuck Scarborough is retiring.


• Vote in the Deadliest Warrior poll between The Penguin and The Kingpin.


• R.I.P., Alice Brock.

It's OK to Cry in Baseball

Mr. O'Neill is being even more bobble-headed than usual in honor of Joe DiMaggio's birth on this day 110 years ago. I wouldn't have taken him for a sports fan, but I suppose it's wholesome enough to make him happy in spite of the presumably mentally-damaging competition.

Meanwhile, the Fashion Club will be happy to know that today is Shopping Reminder Day, although I doubt they've ever needed a reminder to go shopping. It seems more likely that they'd need a reminder to go home before the store closed.

Jake might like to know that today is also National Brand Day, so he could go to another branding conference if he'd like. Just make sure someone explains to Quinn that this type of branding has nothing whatsoever to do with cattle.

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 13 Aftermath and Investigations, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "True to her word, Sandi pulled up into the Giant Strawberry’s parking lot with screeching rubber just over four minutes later. Daria stopped trembling and got out of the car."

A Special Day for Quinn's Adopted Cousin!

Alison and Lindy have decided to celebrate National Adoption Day by taking in three kids to raise on a farm, apparently. This is one of the stranger alter egos from "Is It College Yet?" and I fear for those kids if either of those two young women are still dealing with the same character flaws as before.

I hope that Jake gets to celebrate National Cashew Day with what he considers the ultimate nut. He might be able to get some from It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty World, unless it closed down after Kevin and Daria's brief yet disastrous stint working there.

Finally, happy birthday to this very blog, the Daria Fandom Blog II! It was on this day in 2007 that The Angst Guy made the first post here. I may have taken over when he left, but it will always be his blog as far as I'm concerned!

Just as Long as Jake Hasn't Been Warming Up Milk Again

It looks like someone misunderstood the point of the Great American Smokeout, but someone's got to get the ghost of Tommy Sherman out of the girls' bathroom. This would be a good opportunity for Mr. DeMartino to quit smoking, and maybe Trent, as well. Trent was never shown smoking onscreen, but I think we all know that his cough and laidback attitude came from something other than tobacco.

Instead, why not enjoy some quality entertainment by celebrating World Television Day? It doesn't even have to be quality; Sick, Sad World or Fashion Vision are also possibilities.

If you're looking for something more highbrow, then World Philosophy Day is probably more your speed. You can either ponder "the idea that the negative, which is the nothingness of being and the annihilating power both together, is nothingness" or you could just go the route of "pseudo-intellectual poser with accessories from the street fair."

Fanfic Update!

• Almost Shameless, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Chris Carbone's dream has just turned into a nightmare. He was on a dream date with a real-life celebrity, Taylor Swift, when who should show up to throw a wrench in things but his ex-wife, Brooke."


• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "After she awoke, Freya turned on her radio to one of the campus radio stations."

She's No Grizzly, but She'll Definitely Be Growling

Daria is at the very last place she wants to be because it's National Camp Day and therefore her own personal hell. If she thinks it's bad now, just wait until they get out the watermelon.

I would suggest that she hide in the bathroom with her old friend Talking Toilet for World Toilet Day, but that's not a good idea, either. I suspect the quality of the camp bathrooms (if they have any) is worse than Skip Stevens's singing voice.

Instead, maybe she could see if anyone brought any board games so she can ignore Skip and celebrate Play Monopoly Day. I'm sure Amelia would be happy to play, although that isn't necessarily a selling point for Daria.

Helen Really Kneaded the Dough

Helen is clearly regretting her decision to celebrate Homemade Bread Day, or at least wishing that she'd just used the bread machine instead. I mean, how good can her oatmeal pumpkin seed loaf be that it's worth this kind of hassle?

Mr. DeMartino, on the other hand, will happily enjoy Take A Hike Day by, well, you can figure it out. I hope he doesn't feel obligated to break any windows this time, because I'm sure the door will work just fine.

No matter how long he hikes, eventually he'll have to come back to work and confront his students. After all, it's International Students Day and those students are just waiting to answer his questions with the dumbest possible replies.

Fanfic Update!

• Almost Shameless, by wilddogjj (parts 1 and 2): "Quinn and her husband, Jim, were in the home office discussing a recent change in the overall family dynamic." (Part 2)


• Heavenly wine and roses, by riotsquirrrl (part 4): "'Hey, kiddo! Are you excited about your trip to play paintball? It’s your sister’s first time!' Daria pauses her reading of Catch-22 at the dinner table and looks up."


• Spider Quinn 13 Aftermath and Investigations, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "At the Historia, various Lawndale High students were talking about what the previous night’s events meant."

Mixing Recyclables During Daylight Hours? Not Done.

You might think that Sandi is glaring because she's being forced to interact with trash, but in reality she's mad because it's National Recycling Day and you clearly did not properly separate your plastics from your glass. Tsk.

While everyone is tidying up and throwing out old stuff, it might be a good idea to celebrate Clean Your Refrigerator Day as well. The Lanes' fridge is pretty empty already, but they should consider giving it a good wipedown to get rid of whatever that red stuff is.

Someone needs to tell Skip Stevens that it's National Camp T-Shirt Day and he should dig out his old Camp Grizzly shirt. Although it wouldn't surprise me to learn that he wears that shirt every single day.

It's Just a Good Day for Caring!

Jane's doing a great job celebrating National Hug a Musician Day, although I'm not sure she'll extend the same gesture to Nick or Max. Jesse, on the other hand....

It's possible that the two siblings are actually observing Caregiver Appreciation Day, although it's a tough call which one takes care of which more often. It's certainly true that they have definitely depended more on each other than on anyone else in their absentee family.

Regardless, I'm just glad that they're enjoying a moment of tenderness on World Kindness Day. The world could use more kindness right now, and I hope that all of you out there give or receive an act of kindness today, or better yet, both!

Fanfic Update!

• When Tony Comes Marching Home, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Quinn and Jim were visiting Jim's father, Tony, and stepmother/Tony's much younger trophy wife, Jennifer." Part 3)

I Can't Do Much More Than a Paper Airplane

Jane is telling Jake to stop telling her that World Origami Day should be celebrated by folding paper rather than cloth. He needs to respect her artistic process and--look, a ducky!

The Fashion Club could celebrate World Orphans Day by making sure that they get the ankle boots that they so desperately need. On second thought, orphans have enough problems without having to put up with the Fashion Club.

Although today is National Timothy Day, it's also National Education Day and if we're talking about Timothy O'Neill then the two are clearly not compatible. However, I have a Timothy of my own and I'll celebrate both days by making sure he goes to school!

Fandom News!

• Erin M reminds everyone about the Lawndale-high rules.

It Does Look Like a Half-Arted Attempt

It doesn't look like Jane is enjoying Go to an Art Museum Day very much, but perhaps if they displayed a few Jane Lane originals then she'd change her mind. Daria's more interested in medical oddities than artwork, but I'm sure Jane has dragged her along to plenty of art museums during the course of their friendship.

If science is more your thing than art, then enjoy World Inventors’ Day! Andrew Landon could take the opportunity to brag about his folding coffee cup, but then again when doesn't he take the opportunity to brag?

Honestly, just enjoy whatever kind of day you feel like because it's World Freedom Day and I'm not the boss of you. In fact, you could choose to exercise your freedom and disregard World Freedom Day entirely...but that would create a paradox and possibly destroy the universe.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Crossover: Night of the Short-Skirted Cynic, by Meester_Lee (part 5): "'In the meantime, there’s one more person on board I’d like you to meet,' said West. 'A member of my staff.'"


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardellbrenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "The Shadow parked as close as she could to the devastated Hall as she could, given the traffic of people trying to leave the vicinity."

She'll Definitely Have a Glowing Complexion!

Quinn is embracing her inner scientist, following in the footsteps of Marie Curie, who was born on this day in 1867. I'm not sure if she's trying to discover a new element or just inventing a new hair care product to increase bouncity-bounce, but I wish her the best of luck...from behind a lead-lined protective barrier.

When she's done with chemistry and ready for some philosophy, Quinn should know that today is also the anniversary of Albert Camus's birth on this day in 1913. She can celebrate by wearing all black and adding some accessories from the street fair!

Meanwhile, if Jake finds out that today is Men Make Dinner Day then the whole family will be in trouble. However, chances are good that he'll burn off his taste buds, panic, and spend the rest of the night studying his tongue in the bathroom mirror while Helen orders pizza.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Quincy Jones.


• tafka offers information for people interested in moving to Australia.


• janendaria4life is looking for C.E. Forman's Beavis and Butt-Head fics.


• britabird has an announcement for anyone who voted for Trump.

Bollocks!

It's Guy Fawkes Night, and everyone's favorite anthropomorphized British holiday is feeling...well, at best indifferent and at worst pissed off. So, the same as usual.

I do applaud Guy Fawkes's willingness to get involved with his country's political system, but I don't recommend his methods. Instead, since today is Election Day in the United States, I encourage all of my fellow Americans to vote if you possibly can.

Once you've done your civic duty, you can enjoy that other beloved pastime of our country for American Football Day. I'm sure Kevin will, even if the situation isn't appropriate. I mean, he has to take those shoulder pads off occasionally, right?

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 8): "Sandi came down to breakfast and saw that her brothers were watching Brittany talk at the Groundhog Day Festival. ‘I doubt she’s the Shadow,’ she thought."


• When Tony Comes Marching Home, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Sandi, Quinn, Stacy and Nicole were gathered in one of the mansion's many sitting rooms having a discussion. While Sandi carried herself with a regal, commanding presence, the other three women looked uncomfortable."

"Today I'll be the perfect working wife and mother!"

I don't know who Helen thinks she fooling, but just because it's Housewife’s Day doesn't mean she isn't seconds away from dropping everything to rush to the office for a law firm emergency. Probably involving Eric needing a second opinion on his tie.

Before she leaves, I hope she remembers to pack a lunch because it's Sandwich Day and she won't be very productive on an empty stomach. Kevin can recommend his favorite, nutty-butter and banana, but I don't think she should accept any sandwiches found in The Tank. Especially if they've been recently sat on.

Quinn and the rest of the Fashion Club will be pleased to know that today is National Accessory Day, and they can accessorize to their heart's content. As Quinn explained, "That whole 'less is more' thing is so over! Accessories are back!"

Black IS Slenderizing....

It may look like Tiffany went a little heavy with the makeup, but actually she's just preparing to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. As for the skull, well...maybe she's going to perform Hamlet and/or Romeo and Juliet?

I hope that the skull at least has healthy teeth, because it's National Brush Day and we don't want to see any cavities! Mr. O'Neill even has the perfect song for today: "Brush, brush, brush your teeth, using good hygiene, up and down and up and down and floss until they gleam." I assume he gets his music from the same place the Gupty family does.

While everyone tries to get that song out of their heads, I'll let the Morgendorffers know that today is Love Your Lawyer Day and Helen would appreciate a bit of affection. Or she would if she were home, but she's most likely at the office again. It's okay; you can love her from a distance!

Fanfic Update!

• Alison's Last Word, by riotsquirrrl (COMPLETE!): "Alison was at the top of the stairs to the Marcy Ave subway stop on a Monday afternoon a few weeks later when her phone rang. Flipping it open, she saw that it was her gallery."


• Busy Hands Do The Devils Head In, by psychotol (COMPLETE!): "Justitia watches the latest soul disappear off to hell and turned to Valak saying 'man I’m about ready to knock off, is that it?'"


• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Olivia and Janara approached one of the Main Library’s entrances along one of the elevated walkways. Olivia was listening to an audio guide on the University."


• Secrets of Lawndale, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (prologue): "Quinn Morgendorffer walked through the streets of Lawndale. She didn’t believe that Tiffany Blum-Deckler had thrown her out."

I Really Hope That's Cranberry Juice

It appears that half the Lane family is getting in on the fun for Look in the Back of Your Refrigerator Day, although I don't expect them to find much of any value. The Lanes don't really seem like the type of people to keep much fresh food in the house. Or any food at all, for that matter.

If they come across anything suitably rotten then they could put it to good use later on because it's Mischief Night. There's nothing like the weaponized use of smelly produce to really start a prank off right!

As pranks go, though, I don't recommend participating in National Text Your Ex Day, especially if you're Ms. Barch. I suspect that she has nothing good or useful to say to her ex-husband.

Fuzzy Wuzzy Wee...Snacks?

I see that Mrs. Bennett (as well as, for some reason, Upchuck) is super excited about Plush Animal Lover’s Day, because it's a great opportunity to collect more Fuzzy Wuzzy Wee Bits! Since I assume that Fuzzy Wuzzy Wee Bits were a reference to Beanie Babies, I have to believe that the bottom dropped out of that particular market a long time ago.

Just don't eat the poor stuffed critters, even if it is Wild Foods Day. Still, I'd rather have a mouth full of cotton stuffing than take a chance on Jake's survival skills. No glitterberries for me, thank you!

In fact, I'll just stick to my favorite snack for National Chocolate Day. I hope Jane is able to get her hands on some unauthorized chocolate, but she'd better keep it hidden from Mrs. Johanssen if she wants to hold onto it.

Finally, a happy International Animation Day to every single character on Daria because, after all, they're all animated! I suppose it would make more sense to thank the artistic talent behind the show, though.

Fanfic Update!

• How to Train Your Dragon: Berk in Time, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "This is Berk. Most places have cats or dogs as pets. But we have dragons."


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 7): "Mayor Lawson was on edge. He read through the Sun-Herald's article again. 'Pure speculation!' he groused to himself. 'There's no proof there's an actual fourth costumed vigilante.'"

Will She Turn Into a Carriage at Midnight?

It seems that background character Dawn is all set for National Pumpkin Day, and just in time for Halloween as well. If you haven't carved a holiday pumpkin yet, today is your best chance!

I'm more interested in National Trick or Treat Day, though, because hey! Free candy! I have to assume that Trick or Treat Day is Halloween's sugar-obsessed kid sister.

If you're not into Halloween festivities, then you could always celebrate Hug a Sheep Day instead! Although I'm not sure why anyone would want to hug a sheep. As pointed out by Quinn, they tend to be...less than clean.

Fandom News!

• wouter offers an example of Trent's quote: "They don't care about your art, they just want something loud going on so they don't have to talk."


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Samantha Stephens and Sabrina Spellman.


• Meester_Lee shares a story about an Indiana teenager's skull found in a wall.

Kevin's Due in Kangaroo Court

Brittany is either making sure everyone is aware of kangaroos for National Kangaroo Awareness Day or else Kevin ticked her off again and she's about to go a few rounds in the ring with him. I would bet on Brittany to win even without the animal strength and massive hind legs.

After the boxing match they should sit down and share a meal for National Food Day, although for most people National Food Day is every day. Enjoy the edible item of your choice, and bonus points if it's pizza to honor our favorite duo!

Finally, it was on this day in 2000 that Wraith posted an essay on the episode "See Jane Run." He makes some interesting points, and it's always fun to see reviews of the show written while the show was still airing!

Fanfic Update!

• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "Freya Andersson was excited. She was starting University at Academia d’Aeterna Universitas d’Aurora, the oldest university in the world. Of course, that wasn’t the reason she was studying there."

They're Just Nuts About...Well, They're Just Nuts

Daria and Jane are taking National Nut Day awfully far, but hopefully they're being paid well for their humiliation. Let's just pray for Daria's sake that Trent doesn't experience a peanut brittle craving and head their way.

I suppose Daria would much rather be reading or even studying, though, especially because today is Smart is Cool Day! I guess the popular kids at Lawndale High School didn't get that particular memo, but Daria will get the last laugh someday. Except that she doesn't laugh.

It's possible that the late Timothy Leary, born on this day in 1920, would have disagreed, however. His famous advice to "Turn on, tune in, drop out" suggests that traditional education wasn't his preferred goal.

Fandom News!

• Read and discuss an article on Screen Rant that declares Daria the best MTV animated series of the 1990s.

I Vant to Try on Clothes!

Sandi's trying out a new hairstyle and fashion choice to honor the late actor Bela Lugosi, who was born on this day in 1882. Lugosi was best known for his iconic portrayal of Dracula, but he was also (infamously) known as one of the stars of Plan 9 from Outer Space, a film that most likely made it into one of Daria and Jane's Bad Movie Nights.

I suppose Daria should let Jane pick the next movie, though because today is National Lane Day. I don't suppose there is a National Morgendorffer Day, though, so maybe that isn't fair. Jane has to share anyway, however, because it's also National Jeff Day and Jeffy would probably like to have a little attention...at least from a certain redhead.

If Jane chooses a movie Daria doesn't like, she could always spend the time working on a new Melody Powers story in honor of National Day on Writing. Assuming that her Musings rejection didn't sour her on the whole thing, that is.

Fanfic Update!

• Jim's Wet Nightmare, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Jim was in the garage working on a 1957 Chevy Bel Air while tripod mounted cameras recorded the process."


• Moronic partying, by Rémi (COMPLETE!): "Daria and Quinn were walking to school. The two girls were holding hands but, since Quinn was always more enthusiastic about things than Daria, the latter was lagging behind and being pulled forward by her little sister." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Run, Timmy, Run, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "The Fielding football players who'd stolen the Glenfield Wolf costume have just placed it in the team's storage room. Once that was done, they walked out and closed the door behind them." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 6): "As she sat down for dinner, Helen noticed something different about Daria. 'Hairclips, Daria? I’m happy that you’re changing something up.'"

Time to Get Out the Razor!

Jake picked the wrong day to quit shaving, not only because it's No Beard Day but also because I don't think a beard would really suit him anyway. I suppose Trent could consider shaving off his goatee but I'd hate to wake him up for something as trivial as grooming.

Since I've never had a beard, I am much more interested in celebrating National Chocolate Cupcake Day, especially if any of my readers are willing to contribute cupcakes! Brittany and Kevin can celebrate, as well, because Kevin probably still considers Brittany to be a great hostess...cupcake. Except that Brittany has previously stated a preference for Ho-Hos.

I offer absolutely no sweet treats to Ken Edwards, even if today is National Ken Day. Partly this is because I don't want to reward creepy dudes but also I just don't like to share my chocolate.

Fandom News!

• Discuss cartoon gags that have not aged well.

But...Just the Dye?

Quinn is going to make sure everyone knows that it's World Allergy Awareness Day, or at least she's going to make everyone aware of her allergy to pistachio dye. Remember that allergies can be life-threatening, and even end a neck modeling career before it has the chance to start.

As long as you don't consume anything that might cause a reaction, please do celebrate World Food Day by eating...something. Could be cheese fries, could be frozen lasagna, could even be chewing gum if you're Ted Dewitt-Clinton! Just don't try the sushi at Tokyo Toby's.

Once Quinn gets over her ordeal, she can join her friends at Cashman's to celebrate National Department Store Day. I'm sure some serious shopping will take her mind off the unpleasantness, or at least it will until Sandi repeatedly reminds her of it for her own amusement and spite.

Fanfic Update!

• Cynic and the Tower of Joy, by Meester_Lee (parts 1 - 3): "It came about very suddenly. One moment, the area around Tunney’s Store was there, just as it had been for decades; the next it was gone, replaced by a medieval-looking tower and a few scattered outbuildings." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• Fashion Show (Scenes no Daria fanfic Should Have: How did We survive?), by Shiva (COMPLETE!): "Quinn Morgendorffer stood backstage at New York Fashion Week as the models were being given their final instructions."


• TheFashionClub, by Rémi (COMPLETE!): "As it was the first day of Daria and Quinn at Lawndale High, their mother was driving them to school, but truth be told, the sisters didn’t enjoy the ride one bit."


• A Variant Lawndale 01 - Beach Party Invitation, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "Suddenly, something happened. There was a rumble and the ground near the wave pool cracked."


• Alison's Last Word, by riotsquirrrl (COMPLETE!): "Is it really a student art opening without jug wine? Jane thought as she nursed a plastic cup of red, mildly alcoholic, liquid."

Bald and Free...to the Max!

Max is having a great day because not only did he get appointed a Junior Deputy but it's also Be Bald and Free Day! I suppose that's accurate in that he has been released from jail but he's not what anyone would consider a free spirit.

I bet Max's mood would get even better if someone offered him a sweet treat for National Dessert Day. Jane might still have some of that ice cream cake, or perhaps Quinn could produce another chocolate layer cake...unless that's reserved for Kevin only.

It's a Switcheroo!

Kevin and Brittany have moved beyond wearing each other's underwear and have now switched clothes entirely in honor of National Costume Swap Day. I have to admit, Kevin really does have the legs to pull off a skirt, although I'm more worried about what kind of force of nature Brittany would be on the football field.

Once they're done cosplaying as each other, they might take Kevin's motorcycle for a spin for National Motorcycle Ride Day, although I recommend that neither of them wear a skirt for that. Also, Brittany needs to remember to keep her mouth shut if she wants to keep her teeth bug-free.

As soon as they get back from their ride, they can find Mr. DeMartino and help him celebrate Moment of Frustration Day. I think it goes without saying, though, that the teacher will experience more than a single moment of frustration with those two around.

Fanfic Update!

• Crystal Claw, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (COMPLETE!): "Everything seemed absolutely perfect for Ella Anne that day." (Part 47) (Part 48) (Part 49) (Part 50)


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 5): "Half an hour after leaving home, the Enigma arrived in the vicinity of the Historia. She remembered her conversation with Daria after the opening."

Guys, Please Get a Room!

Brittany's got no problem with National Hug a Kevin Day, but I don't think she'd appreciate it if anyone else tried to celebrate it. I really hope those two know that it's only "hug" Kevin, because no one wants to see this go any further.

If Kevin grabs a set of drumsticks then they can also celebrate National Hug a Drummer Day! If not, then Max is always available. And I do mean always because no one likes Max. I don't think he can expect many hugs today.

Hugs might be appropriate in general, though, because it's also World Mental Health Day and comfort from a friend is always helpful for anyone struggling with mental health. What's not so great for mental health is the Quiet Ivy psychiatric institution, where the professionals don't really seem to know what they're doing. Mrs. Manson would fit right in.

Fandom News!

• Azul has some law questions.


• Vote in the Deadliest Warrior poll between Thor from Marvel Comics and Tlaloc.

Where's a Red Pen When You Need It?

I hope Jodie takes some time off from her stressful day to appreciate the irony of a misspelled poster about dyslexia, especially because it's World Dyslexia Awareness Day. There has been some fandom speculation about whether or not Kevin is dyslexic, although I suspect his intellectual problems run much deeper than any learning disability.

I don't think it would be wise for Jake to recreate the Great Chicago Fire, which began on this day in 1871, in the Morgendorffer kitchen. I don't care if Helen hid the mop again; the milk will taste just as good cold. If he really must warm it up, I might recommend the microwave.

Although there were no explicitly stated lesbians in Daria (Alison, being bisexual, doesn't count), I think we can celebrate International Lesbian Day all the same because fanfiction more than made up the difference. I can't say I'm surprised about it--with the shortage of decent guys in the show, shippers have to do what they can!

Fanfic Update!

• Crystal Claw, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (parts 44 and 45): "Camp Grizzly was quite probably the most famous Summer camp in all of Pennsylvania." (Part 45)


• Homecoming, by davidfalkayn (part 32): "'Who was that on phone, Dear?' Mrs. Ruttheimer asked as she came out of the kitchen. 'That was Brittany, Mom.' Charles answered, 'She’s coming by in an hour to pick me up to catch a movie and then listen to some music. Jenn and her group are playing tonight.'"


• Parting Gift, by remi (part 10): "'Very well, Quinn. I am surprised that you would want to defend Daria after what she did, but we are listening. What do you have to say in her defense?'"


• Sixteenth Doctor Adventures (Chapter 1), by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "After the TARDIS had landed, Xander got off the floor. ‘He’s taking this rather well. Much like others I have travelled with, in my previous incarnations,’ the Doctor thought."


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 4): "In the bathroom, Daria looked in the mirror. She saw herself and Quinn, two sisters who were more alike than she would have expected before her father passed."

Merry Unbirthday, Kevin!

Kevin is proclaiming to all that today is Mad Hatter Day so you should...I don't know, wear a hat or have a weird tea party or talk nonsense. Whatever you like. If you don't have any other plans, you could read one of the many Alice stories that cross over with Daria.

I hope no one tells Jake that it's Change A Light Day, because the last thing anyone (especially Quinn) needs is for him to fiddle around with the light fixtures and risk killing a family member again. Hey, how many Jakes does it take to change a lightbulb? I don't know, but feel free to share your ideas for a punchline in the comments.

Instead of doing any DIY projects around the house, Jake should just cook up some pasta in honor of National Noodle Day. We know he can make both fettuccini Bolognese and penne a la pesto (as long as the pesto doesn't oxidize), so plain noodles shouldn't be a problem.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., John Amos.


• wouter shares a song he wrote and the story behind it.


• Discuss the “Daisy” ad.

Please, Go Back to Scowling!

Daria really needs to stop celebrating World Smile Day because she's starting to freak me out. Supposedly she doesn't like to smile unless she has a reason, but apparently being super creepy to all observers is reason enough.

It should put a smile on Jake's face to learn that today is National Golf Lovers Day, so I hope he gets the chance to break out his clubs and play his favorite game. I think one of my favorite Jake moments is at the end of "I Don't," when it turns out that he left all of the chaos behind to play golf at the country club. Good for him!

I don't think anyone will be smiling for Kids Music Day, at least not if we have to listen to Tad and Tricia Gupty's awful records. Jane will most likely refuse to sing that song about John Jacob Jingleheimer somebody but would be happy to perform "Old McDonald" for us. Don't even ask Daria about "Pop Goes the Weasel," though.

Fanfic Update!

• Crystal Claw, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 43): "What Quinn Morgendorffer discovered that day had been so shocking, so terrible and painful that she had cried and howled all over the house, just trying to be noticed by her parents and yet remaining all ethereal and invisible as the ghost that she had become."

Who Wouldn't Want a Seeing-Eye Jane?

Daria and Jane are celebrating International Walk to School Day, which actually is pretty much every day for them. However, it's rather unusual that Jane has to guide Daria through the trip thanks to a lack of vision correction. Resist the urge to steer her into a tree, Jane!

With luck, Daria will receive some otherworldly help because it's Guardian Angel Day. Then again, guardian angels are more Quinn's thing, so I guess she shouldn't count on that. Besides, Daria's angel might be too busy playing his string thing to notice her peril.

Speaking of peril, I don't recommend anyone celebrate World Farm Animals Day using Rita's boyfriend Roger's method, which is to land on a cow in a tragic skydiving accident. Instead, take Daria's example and write an essay comparing the sophomore class to barnyard animals. Name names.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Kris Kristofferson.

Whodunnit?

Daria's recreating the opening scene of the series Murder, She Wrote, which premiered on this day in 1984. I'm glad she went with a new outfit, because riding a bike in a skirt is possible, but comes with its own special challenges.

It could be that she's only on a bike because she wants to get as far away as possible from everyone else for National Love People Day. After all, she...well...doesn't.

Someone should tell Ted that it's National Chewing Gum Day, and perhaps offer him a slice of Juicy Fruit. He might even be ready to handle the hard stuff: Dubble Bubble.

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "While Quinn was looking at the Schloss Morgendorffer architectural blueprints, Norman Osborn was looking at the engineering blueprints for the prototype glider. It was perfect for his needs."

Who Ya Gonna Call?

It seems that a new Ghostbusters team has assembled just in time for National Ghost Hunting Day, and I hope they start by taking care of Tommy Sherman's ghost in the girls' bathroom. I gotta admit, I kind of want to read a fanfic of Mack, Kevin, Trent, and Upchuck hunting ghosts. Anyone willing to write it?

Since today is also National Hunting and Fishing Day, I hope no one feels like they have to limit themselves to hunting the spirits of the dead. I have to wonder, if you capture the ghost of a fish, does that mean you're a ghost fisher?

If you think that question was dumb, then that's good because it's Ask a Stupid Question Day! I should probably leave that kind of thing to professionals like Kevin and Brittany, though, because it's about the only thing they're good at.

Fandom News!

• Vote in the poll about the Lawndale High Message board "Like" button.


• Read and discuss a new Daria interview.

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the QB

Kevin's cheerfully planting apple trees in honor of Johnny Appleseed Day, or at least I hope that's what he's doing. With his brain power, he might be trying to plant jelly beans.

Fruit would be an excellent addition to your morning meal for Better Breakfast Day, although the Morgendorffers will probably stick with sugar tarts and cereal. Maybe Helen will cook some more imaginary pancakes to celebrate National Pancake Day, though! Just remember Quinn's advice: don't eat "the first pancake off the stove. You have to feed one to the dog."

Despite that absolutely awful statement she made to the three Js, they'll most assuredly still send her gifts and proclamations of their affection, and not only because it's Love Note Day. Frankly, it wouldn't surprise me at all to learn that Quinn sends love notes to herself.

Fanfic Update!

• Crystal Claw, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 42): "If there was a date every year that really scrambled Lawndale up like nothing else could, it was indeed that very last night that October shared with the very first hours of November."


• Reverse the Chase, by BracedRhombus (part 9): "'Who can tell me the answer to question five?' asked Mr. Aldridge. Charlene's hand shot up like a rocket. She glanced around the room—hers was the only one raised."

Brought to You By the Letter "D"

This terrifying Daria/muppet hybrid wants everyone to know that today is the anniversary of the late Jim Henson's birth in 1936. Henson left behind an amazing legacy, but the most fandom-relevant ones would be Mike Xeno's D is for Daria and Erin M's The Muppet Show: Cynicism & Violence.

On a less wholesome note, today is also the anniversary of Nirvana's Nevermind album, which was released on this day in 1991. It had a huge impact on the music scene at the time, inspired Trent to do a rare cover song, and also was instrumental in promoting grunge--to Quinn's utter disgust.

Today is also National Punctuation Day but I dont think Ill be celebrating this one You see Im totally rebellent that way

Fandom News!

• Vote in the poll about the party incident with Brad and Brett Ruttheimer.

In a Hole in the Ground There Lived a Lawyer

Helen's trying to celebrate Hobbit Day but it's hard to get into the spirit while holding a misshapen hunk of wax. Feel free to either have a second breakfast or go on a massive adventure with a bunch of dwarves; the choice is yours!

However, nothing would be more Hobbit-like than staying home, nice and cozy, especially because it's National Girls’ Night In Day. Maybe the Fashion Club can have another sleepover! And Helen can absolutely mortify Quinn even further by showing off her candle.

It will be Stacy's turn to be mortified when she finds out it's National Legwear Day and she's wearing stretch pants! With luck Sandi will be in a charitable mood and can reassure her that they're actually leggings.

Fanfic Update!

• Convergence on Lawndale, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 11): "Kaelyn started preparing the snacks. She did so quickly and efficiently, but she made each one slightly different."


• Spider Quinn 12 Rise of the Green Goblin, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Daria paused. She knew Jane was hiding something. But she didn’t want to give Sandi the satisfaction."

This Won't End Well

I'm afraid Kevin has gotten the wrong idea for National Punch Day, because it's supposed to be about the beverage and not hitting people. Not to worry, though, as Robert will soon be turning the tables on him.

Once Kevin regains consciousness someone had better keep an eye on him because it's National Concussion Awareness Day and he can't afford to lose any more brain function. I'm sure Tommy Sherman has more than a passing familiarity with this one, or at least he did before he had that unfortunate incident with the memorial goalpost.

I think it might be best to just put aside all of the violence and celebrate National Pepperoni Pizza Day instead. Jane and Daria will most likely be joining in, even if the restaurant adds that extra quart of grease to the recipe.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the man who sued his victim for damages after stealing their Vespa scooter and crashing it.

Get! Burger!

Amelia is so happy to be celebrating Locate An Old Friend Day, but Daria definitely doesn't feel that the feeling is mutual. I suspect she'll be celebrating Hide From an Old Friend Day before the end of the day.

Let's hope Skip has fired up the grill for National Cheeseburger Day, although I think we can all live without his highly-detailed system. I recommend eating the burger, but you can always follow Daria's lead by putting it into your boots to enjoy the squishy feeling.

Finally, on this day in 1999 Kara Wild published the essay "Amy: Savior or Chimera?" It's an interesting take on Daria's favorite aunt that was written mid-series, so enjoy a glimpse into what fandom speculation was like before the end of the show.

Fanfic Update!

• Crystal Claw, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 41): "The mighty black wolves howled to a gray sky as the lady of green eyes rode so fast through Sallakovia, all the dangers of the forest and the mountains shook in fear of her presence alone, she would arrive back home soon enough and the portraits and letter were indeed safe and sound deep in a pocket of her cloak."

Don't Let Mom Miss the Guacamole!

I see that Jake is fully embracing National Guacamole Day, but I hope he comes up for air long enough to dip some chips in it or something. Helen, meanwhile, might celebrate later. After she hangs up the phone and dials 911.

I hope someone wakes up Trent and tells him that today is National Tattoo Story Day and he should take the opportunity to share the message that his tattoo sends. Of course, that message is "I got a tattoo out of a magazine," so don't get your hopes up.

Quinn will be pleased to know that today is Stay Away From Seattle Day, because I don't think she ever truly forgave them for that--ugh--grunge. As long as she's finally figured out that Washington is a state and not the nation's capital, everything should be fine.

Fandom News!

• Share songs that could have been about Jodie's upbringing.


• ddakl has a translation-related question about a comment from "Daria Day 1998."