Time to Start the Countdown!

Jane and Alison are ringing in New Year's Eve, but I hope one of Jane's resolutions is to turn down Alison's offer to go home with her to look at her pastels.

If you're wondering where Daria is, you might check with Carson Daly and see if she's doing a cameo on MTV New Year's Eve like she did at the end of 2001.

Fanfic Update!

• Fancy that, by Indigo (COMPLETE!): "'Hello. No she's not available... a family emergency.' Daria answered the phone."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 28): "Stormy Waters walked slowly through the corridors of Pod 05, searching for a janitor's closet or an equipment room of some kind. Lieutenant Commander Barch and Lieutenant Commander Marquez had both tasked him with retrieving some spare equipment for a series of hallways that were undergoing maintenance in Pod 04."


• Lawndale Z, by Kuriamo22 (part 6): "On the morning of the day the Saiyans were supposed to arrive Daria, Jane and Jake were at Jake's dojo putting some water and snacks in a couple of backpacks. Once they finished they encapsulated them, and put them in their pockets."


• The Many Doctors, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 33): "The Doctor was loping around the console room, when suddenly the Cloister Bell starting ringing. 'What is that?' Rose asked. 'The Cloister Bell. It signifies that the TARDIS is in danger!' the Doctor said."


• Reclaim, by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "The alley behind the Zon was cramped and filthy. Between the dumpster and the large black van parked next to the doors, there was only a small amount of space where a person could stand."


• The Third Morgendorffer Sister Named Helen (I.C. - Third Morgendorffer Sister à la Helen), by Shiva (COMPLETE!): "'Helen!' yelled her mother, Helen Senior, 'Stop smoking weed in this house NOW.'"

A Spicy Day for Texas

Someone should let Jake know that, even though it's Pepper Pot Day, he should probably take it easy on the pepper and other spices in the soup. He'd probably prefer his tongue not stay permanently black, after all.

This is also the anniversary of the day Texas was admitted to the union in 1845. If it hadn't been, Beavis and Butt-head would have been a very different show.

Fandom News!

• Discuss a news story about a man who died in Germany after blowing up a condom machine.


• Share your thoughts on the latest developments with regards to Japan and comfort women.


• Who on Daria do you think would go Nazi?

The Actress and the Misandrist

Barch is doing her best impression of the late actress Marlene Dietrich, who was born on this day in 1901. I'm not sure the two women have anything whatsoever in common aside from this alter ego, but Dietrich was born in Germany and "Barch" sounds vaguely German, so there's that.

Fanfic Update!

• The Car Confrontation, by mabel (COMPLETE!): "Gay and in love with one's presumably straight best friend is never a good situation to be in, but Daria found herself in it time and time again."


• The Choice, by Erin M. (part 1): "It happened at lunch. Sunset Shimmer and her friends had been eating and chatting as usual when the announcement came over the PA."


• Daria: College Pains The Sophomore Year, by James the Lesser (part 14): "Daria is unsure why she was asked to stay after class by her professor. She had turned in the last assignment and hadn't cut any classes."


• The Furious Beat (Daria and the Gang Thread), by Roentgen (COMPLETE!): "'Daria,' Hoffman said, 'before I put you on the City Desk, I have to float you by the Editor in Chief.'"


• Morning Ritual (Iron Chef: Quinn in 11th Grade), by Zetor (part 1): "Quinn's alarm started blaring the local top twenty station, gradually pulling her from her sleep. Yawning, she reached over to her nightstand, turned off the radio, and grabbed the book she'd left there the night before."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef : MMORPG, Lawndale style), by Waylander (part 10): "Hello to all my readers. Today I managed to get a short interview with one of the people responsible for the well-known multiplayer role-playing game Realms of Altherra. His real name is kept secret for safety reasons, so I'll call him Ernst Gruber, after the character he used as a beta-tester of the game."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef: Quinn in 11th Grade), by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "Quinn slipped her Aquinas essay from her locker into her backpack. She hoped that Mr. O'Neill wouldn't cry at her take on just war theory like the tears he had shed at the beauty of her exposition of Augustine's declaration of the inexplicableness of free will."


• Write Said Ted (The Ted Zone), by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "Ted was just approaching his Language Arts class one afternoon when he was startled to see Daria Morgendorffer leaving the classroom. The surprise wasn't because he didn't expect her to be at school, or because he didn't think she took Language Arts, or because there was anything particularly startling about Daria Morgendorffer."

He Prefers "X."

Christmas is still waiting for his sugar-coated cookies and little cottage all made out of gingerbread, but you go ahead and have a merry Christmas if you celebrate it. Whether you do or not, you may enjoy this list of Christmas-themed Daria fanfics:

• The 26th of December in Lawndale by Shiva


• Bumpmas by Richard Lobinske


• Christmas Chaos by LadieTAG


• The Christmas Clip Show by Mahna Mahna


• Christmas Eve by LadieTAG


• Christmas Eve at the Lanes by Adrienne


• Christmas in White by Richard Lobinske


• Christmas Melody by Richard Lobinske


• Christmas Morning by Robert Nowall


• Christmas Morning by Zetor


• Christmas Snow by LadieTAG


• Daria and Jane are Forced to Save Xmas by JohnnyStyle


• A Daria Christmas Special by Bacner


• Daria's Christmas Carol by Admonisher


• Daria's Season of Goodwill by Nemo Blank


• The Diary of Daria Morgendorffer: A Portrait of a Young Girl by Melissa


• Ghosts Of Christmas Future by Crusading_Saint


• Gifts by Wyvern


• A Great And Good Christmas by ognawk (Part 2)


• The Greatest Gift by LadieTAG


• Herself, an Elf by John Berry


• I'm Dreaming of a Trite Christmas by Kristen Bealer


• It's a Holiday's Night by peapotmaster


• It's a Wonderful Misery Chick Life by Patrick Moore


• The Lane Way by Vlora


• Murphy’s Christmas by legendeld


• O Holy Nightmare by Jill "Leopard Lady" Friedman


• Redneck Christmas by TippedOver


• Sappy Holidays by Kristin Wegner


• Scarlett the Fairy Meets Santa Claus by Aloysius


• Scarlett the Fairy's Twelve Days of Christmas by Aloysius


• Season of Hope and Blight by MeScribble


• Scene from a Lawndale Christmas by undefinedlust


• A Star in the East Window by Guy "Decelaraptor" Payne


• The Tempest by E. A. Smith


• Thankful Snark by Charles RB


• The Twelve Days of Scarlett the Fairy's Christmas by Aloysius


• A Very Cynical Christmas by Warpedkjh13


• Weak at the Freeze by Fiona Lane


• Worldburner: A Very Judith Christmas by Erin Mills, Brother Grimace, Charles RB, and Overlord Mikey


• Yes, Quinn... by NightGoblyn

Fandom News!

• Talk about the successful SpaceX landing.


• It's almost time for the 2015 Daria Fanworks Awards. Can you help this year?


• Robyn posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: Quinn in 11th Grade.

Upchuck Out of Annoyance Range? It's a Festivus Miracle!

Happy Festivus, everyone! Upchuck's not enjoying the traditional aluminum pole, but I'd say that's a good place for him. Today's the day for Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength, so have at it! Especially if they're directed at Upchuck over there.

Fanfic Update!

• After the Kiss, by Strumwulf (COMPLETE!): "Jane stomped her way up the stairs to Daria's room and slammed the door open. With two steps, she was standing in front of Daria, who was sitting on the edge of her bed still dressed in her nightshirt."


• Black Cloaks of Lawndale, by Waylander (part 27): "Why all these bad things keep happening to me? Mother found out about the 'cousin thing' and made a big deal out of it. Quinn thought her punishment was cruel and unfair. She was sure Daria was smirking behind her back."


• Doctor Who: Season 8.5 (Chapter 1), by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "'I see,' Kristy said, once Clara had explained everything pertinent. 'You'll help?' Clara asked. 'Yes,' Kristy answered. 'Cool,' Clara said."


• Mysteries of Lawndale 02: The First Party, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "They soon entered Steve Taylor's home office. It was a well organised and efficient space. Two of the walls were occupied by bookshelves filled with books and folders."

It's Random Assorted Holidays Day!

This is either a UFO sighting or the Lawndale gang is celebrating National Flashlight Day. It could be a very literal interpretation of Look on the Bright Side Day, but if Daria's involved then I doubt it. She's far more likely to be celebrating Humbug Day.

Fandom News!

• View the Tower of London's installment honoring British soldiers who were killed during the First World War.


• Keep up with the latest news on the FIFA scandal.

Christmas Carols and Icebergs

Here we see Daria with her fantasy-sequence boyfriend from the Beavis and Butt-head Christmas Special "It's a Miserable Life," which aired on this day twenty years ago. You can tell this is an alternate universe because Daria is singing and smiling. I'm actually a little frightened by this.

It was also on this day in 1997 that the movie Titanic was released, so feel free to grab your significant other and recreate that scene like they did in "Just Add Water." You know which scene; the one where the boat crashes and chaos ensues.

Fanfic Update!

• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 27): "Captain Murphy looked out the windows of the bridge while listening to Commander Li give a report. 'And then, I should add, both of their name tags were three centimeters to the left of their proper locations! Three centimeters!' 'Uh-huh,' Murphy said with a nod of his head, bored."


• Night Witches, by Panzerfaust 150 (part 12): "Daria awoke to an incessant droning that just would not go away, Jeez, what power tool is dad playing with now? She had a horrible dream she had been flying combat against the Russians, not home studying for 10th grade finals."

The Cutest Aviator!

Quinn's prepared to recreate Orville and Wilbur Wright's famous flight, which happened on this day in 1903. I'm not sure if she's planning to do it because Sandi insisted she couldn't, or because Daria convinced her that windblown hair is now in fashion.

Fandom News!

• Season two of Daria is now playing On Demand.


• Whether or not you're a fan of the original, talk about the trailer for Independence Day 2.


• Watch the Star Wars Prequels: The Anti-Cheese Edits and share your thoughts.

Frankly, My Dear...Gah!

One of our favorite dysfunctional couples is impersonating a different well-known dysfunctional couple, Rhett and Scarlett, from Gone With the Wind. The film had its world premiere on this day in 1939, and apparently helped Quinn and Daria grow closer together in "Aunt Nauseam." Come to think of it, it also inspired Jane's "Oh, Scarlett, you grow lovelier by the day!" line in "I Don't" and at least one other alter ego. Someone working on the show must have been a fan!

Fanfic Update!

• Christmas, by dmsfanman (COMPLETE!): "Daria checked to be sure her laptop computer was securely stowed in her backpack. She had her toiletries and a few articles of clothing in there as well. She still had plenty of clothing at home in her closet. She could always run to the thrift shop if she needed something." (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5)


• The Clean Cut, by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'Muh-om,' Quinn began her protest. 'Daria's cutting up her meat funny again.'"


• ECHOES Of The Past, by angelholme (part 1): "The limo drove down the path, leaving a spray of gravel behind it. The driver didn't want to be caught by anyone, let alone members of the British Intelligence Community."


• Time and the Titanic, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Soon, Stacy had got ready. 'I'm ready,' she said as she entered the time vehicle. She placed her supplies next to Quinn's pile of clothes and Daria's food and water. With the five girls, it was a tight squeeze."

For a Really Good Sugar Rush, Why Not Have Both?

Mack is less than thrilled about Ice Cream Day, but under the circumstances, who can blame him? Besides, at least where I am it's a bit cold to really enjoy ice cream.

As a warmer alternative, you could celebrate National Cocoa Day instead. According to Quinn, it's also good for calming down cute families of teens when they're stranded during hurricanes.

Fandom News!

• The Sidhe shares an interesting link regarding The Miskatonic Railroad.


• What are your favorite animated movie scores/soundtracks? Share them in the thread.


• See the hilariously named fake Star Wars toys.

Cliiiiiimb Eeeevery Mooooountaaaaain!

Tiffany's climbing up to observe International Mountain Day, although you'd think her experience in "Antisocial Climbers" would have scared her off the idea. Still, it's hard to look fat when you're next to a mountain, so you can't fault her logic there.

This is also the anniversary of the formation of UNICEF in 1946, so celebrate by not suing them like Helen and Eric did.

Fanfic Update!

• Guertena's exhibit at Lawndale, by Rémi (part 5): "'Daria, are you OK?' The voice was claiming her attention, lingering on the edge of her foggy mind."


• I'm (Not) With the Band, by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "The next thing Trent was aware of was waking up on the couch in his own living room. Squinting his eyes in the bright morning light, he glanced out the front window and was relieved to see that there were no cars parked outside. He had no idea how he'd gotten home, but at least he hadn't driven in his condition."


• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (part 10): "Quinn looked up at the clock before returning her attention to the TV. She still had three hours before she needed to be at the high school."


• Maternal, by Indigo (part 2): "'... and finally the self-esteem class is suspended until father notice. You may now resume learning.' Ms Li said as she dismissed the students."


• Sailor Mercury Takes A Break (Tales of the Shadow Senshi), by Erin M. (COMPLETE!): "The screams quieted and Mercury tapped the 'record' icon on her computer's touchscreen."

Just Don't Call Him Kevin Daddy!

Mack shouldn't look so sad; today is his (okay, actually Kevin Daniels's) birthday! Daniels voiced Mack during the third season, one of four voice actors to portray the character. Maybe even pretending to put up with Kevin's antics was too much for any one actor to deal with.

Today is also the anniversary of Emmett Kelly's birth in 1898. Kelly is most known for his "Weary Willie" persona, recognizable for the sad face. It's quite possible that the crying clowns Tom and Daria saw at Art in the Park in "Art Burn" were at least based on Kelly.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the recent London Underground station terrorist attack.


• Erin M. spotted Daria and Jane in an Archie comic.

"A date which will live in infamy."

Daria and Jane are hard at work serving their country during World War II, because today is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, which honors the victims of the attack on this day in 1941.

Fanfic Update!

• Black Cloaks of Lawndale, by Waylander (part 26): "When Amy entered Daria's room, her niece was reading A Tale of Two Cities, one of the tomes she bought during their surprise trip to the bookstore. Amy remembered her own experience with the book, and the rage she felt when Rita 'accidentally' ruined it."


• Doctor Who: Ways Clara Oswald Survives the Raven, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "'Let me be brave,' Clara whispered. She looked down the street, and saw the raven flying towards her."


• Guertena's exhibit at Lawndale, by Rémi (part 4): "When Daria exited the blue room, an unsettling surprise was waiting for her in the corridor: the wall were covered with a word written in red paint, always the same word: thief."


• I'm (Not) With the Band, by Kristen Bealer (part 3): "'So let me get this straight. You're a band, but you have no fans, no gigs, and not even a name?' Trent's eleven-year-old sister Jane smirked and crossed her arms."


• Out of Place, by PrecambrianStudios (part 7): "Richard's lightsaber fell to the metallic floor along with its creator. A racking cough barely escaped his lungs and blood trickled down his lips. He couldn't feel his left leg anymore; he knew it was gone."


• Sealab 2021/Daria Crossover Universe 0001-AAAA, by Anguirus1955 (part 26): "In the main loading bay of Pod 06, Captain Murphy looked at the assortment of various vendors who had been given the chance to come down to Sealab for a brief visit. One of the vendors, a young Chinese woman with a stereotype stall with all kinds of stereotype trinkets that she secretly hated selling, caught the attention of Captain Murphy."

Booze for All!

Brittany's here to celebrate Repeal Day, the day that Prohibition was repealed and alcohol could once again flow freely (not that it ever really stopped). Better grab a cold one before Kevin beats you to it!

Today also happens to be the anniversary of Walt Disney's birth in 1901, and without him and his cryogenically frozen head, the "I'm Going to a Picnic" game in "Road Worrier" would have been far less interesting.

Fandom News!

• How evil are you? Take the quiz and find out!


• Discuss the most recent mass shootings and what could be done to stop them.


• Talk about the impending return of Samurai Jack on Toonami.

A Roof is a Mixed Blessing

Daria's checking out the library roof for National Roof Over Your Head Day, and considering it's going to come crashing down in just a few minutes I think she's right to do so. If you have a roof over your head right now, be happy but also check it for cracks. Just in case.

Fanfic Update!

• An Afternoon (Ideas!), by Princess_Pasta (part 1): "Jane stared down at her small mug of cappuccino, the warm steam comforting her despite the knots that were tangled up in her stomach."


• Dreams Rewoven, by RLobinske (part 5): "Under a light rain, Gina Fulton-Randall closely hugged her brother when he opened his front door and squealed, 'Michael!'"


• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (part 9): "Quinn paused as she watched the younger elementary school students walking by her on the street in the morning. Many of them were dressed up in an unusual manner."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 25): "Dr. Quentin Q. Quinn tightened a few more bolts on the side of the machine before wiping the sweat from his brow. 'There,' he said. 'It's finished. It's finally finished, and now... to get ready for testing.'"


• My own party of heroes, by LSauchelli (parts 1 - 16): "I couldn't believe they did this. That Emma would go that far to hurt me. Why did she hate me so much? How had I wronged her?" (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5) (Part 6) (Part 7) (Part 8) (Part 9) (Part 10) (Part 11) (Part 12) (Part 13) (Part 14) (Part 15) (Part 16)


• Perception, by Princess_Pasta (part 3): "'I thought Coach Gibson was going to have a heart attack, his face was so red. I tried to talk to Kevin but he just looked at me like he didn't even know who I was or something. The team is going to go to crap without him; I hate to say it but it's true. Our defensive line is a mess and I don't think I can keep everyone else afloat without Kevin. He was our ace.'"


• Quinn's Code 14: Wedding Trouble, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "In the meantime, Helen had continued to drink. 'Honey, maybe we ought to think about getting back,' Jake said."

Mmm...Nog!

Jake doesn't quite have it right--today begins National Eggnog Month, so he needs to pick the other carton. It might be a little harder to chug, though, and I don't think his cardiologist would like it, either.

If you decide to have some eggnog this month, just remember to check the expiration date. According to Jane, drinking out-of-season nog can cause you to hallucinate anthropomorphic holidays.

Fandom News!

• Dirigible fans, talk about the aircraft's comeback!


• Discuss the recent attack on Planned Parenthood in Colorado.


• ST91 shares his first Daria fan art.

"I want chocolate, dammit!"

Daria and Tom have the right idea today for National Chocolates Day, and I have little doubt Mrs. Johanssen is celebrating as well. Assuming she found a chocolate seller with fewer scruples than Daria, anyway.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria: College Pains The Sophomore Year, by James the Lesser (part 13): "Conner is stunned. 'Really? So you're not stopping the spy stories?' Daria closes her eyes as he start to massage her shoulders. 'I'm not. Just getting rid of the cold war stuff. New decade, new enemy. And Melody is killed off by some one even better than her.'"


• Extended Family: A Thanksgiving Story, by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Stacy paced the length of Quinn's small dorm room for what felt like the hundredth time. 'I don't know Quinn. I mean do we really have to tell them? What if they freak out? What if they say they won't pay for college anymore and kick us out and we have to live on the streets and wear those icky rags and eat—'"


• Guertena's exhibit at Lawndale, by Rémi (part 3): "'Quinn? Somebody? Isn't there anybody left in this damn museum?' Nobody answered Daria's call. Her eyes were slowly adapting to the semi-darkness, but she didn't see anyone: all visitors seemed to have disappeared."


• I'm (Not) With the Band, by Kristen Bealer (part 2): "'Hey, we're Minimum Rage,' Trent said into his microphone. 'We're hardcore, we're serious about our music, and--' 'And we're desperate for gigs,' Claudia added."


• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (part 8): "Quinn grimaced as the camera flashed. 'Okay, next!' the photographer said as Quinn got up and walked away from the auditorium stage. 'Stupid human picture day,' she muttered as she walked past several students waiting in line to have their pictures taken."


• Night Witches, by Panzerfaust 150 (part 11): "The German countryside looked forlorn and barren in the cold dark night, punctuated by flashes of explosions and artillery fire and fast moving shooting stars that punctuated the passing of a missile, or a jet fighter."


• Unnamed story (IC Runaway Daria), by Waylander (part 3): "Ch'od stared down at the three-dimensional board with no expression on his green scaly face except for the flaring nostrils."


• Unnamed story (Iron Chef : MMORPG, Lawndale style), by Waylander (part 9): "Darlene's worries were completely unfounded. The Major of Drammarstadt wasn't going to offer her a world-changing quest. It was merely a business proposition."

I Bet You Stacy Won't Last Ten Seconds

The Fashion Club have their game faces on for Black Friday shopping, but I think they might lose their nerve when they start getting jostled by the crowds.

Instead, why not celebrate Buy Nothing Day? I suspect the girls would succumb to withdrawal, but I think it sounds pretty good.

Fandom News!

• The Weather Channel recently featured a very Daria-esque programming choice.


• Talk about the upcoming SyFy adaptation of Childhood's End.

Swing and a Miss!

Mr. O'Neill is even more bobble-headed than usual because today is the anniversary of Joe DiMaggio's birth in 1914.

Interesting connection for the two of them: in one of the Daria books: we see Mr. O'Neill using a writing exercise to try to help him remember students' names. It doesn't work, but his example for Jodie is Joe DiMaggio. Because it starts with "Joe Di," get it? Yeah, it's dumb. Welcome to Mr. O'Neill.

Fanfic Update!

• I'm (Not) With the Band, by Kristen Bealer (part 1): "'It's gonna happen, man,' Trent told his friend. 'Cool,' Jesse said, nodding. Then he looked up. 'Huh?' 'The band,' Trent reminded him. 'We're finally going to start up a band and get rich and famous. We're almost there, you know?'"


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (parts 23 and 24): "Quinn gasped. 'Aw, that poor kitty!' 'What about a kitty?' Daria asked as she entered the living room and headed for the kitchen. 'A kitten that had its brain transferred into a robot body died from a hairball messing with its circuits. It's just so sad!' Quinn explained." (Part 24)


• Too Nice (Scenes No Daria Fan-Fic Should Have: The Madness Sets In), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "'Mommy doesn't like her misfit daughter I take it? If you want I can take off and we can just hang out later.' Daria shook her head. 'No, it's fine. She can just be a little... aggressive sometimes.'"

It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty Blog Anniversary!

Jake's contemplating his favorite nut for National Cashew Day, and if cashews have hijacked your brain then head on over to It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty World and pick up a bag. Remember: if they don't smile, the nuts are free!

Today is also the eighth anniversary of this very blog, as The Angst Guy began the Daria Fandom Blog II on this day in 2007. He may not be actively contributing to it anymore, but his creation is still going strong.

Fandom News!

• Can you help figure out why the PPMB keeps crashing lately? Also, there's now a thread to post PPMB errors you've seen.


• Kem wonders if she has a dental problem or a sinus problem.


• Join the discussion about the first interracial kiss on TV.

That Goth

Andrea looks less than thrilled to wish actress Marlo Thomas a happy 78th birthday. Thomas was known for her role in That Girl, which Andrea is portraying very unwillingly.

This is also False Confession Day, so if anyone else wants to admit to killing Kevin in "Murder, She Snored," then now would be the time.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria: College Pains The Sophomore Year, by James the Lesser (part 12): "Conner watches the snow hit harder and harder. He and Daria had finished dinner with his family and had been thinking of leaving."


• Guertena's exhibit at Lawndale, by Rémi (parts 1 and 2): "It was an ordinary saturday afternoon in Lawndale. Daria was trying to exit the Morgendorffer household without drawing unwanted attention, when her mother, having seen her put her boots, asked : – Where are you going, Daria ?" (Part 2)


• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (part 8): "'Okay, now as part of our economic studies, we're going to be taking a field trip to the Millennium Mall tomorrow so that we can observe the various components of the economy in action, with supply, demand, customers, and advertising, and so on and so forth,' Mrs. Bennett said."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 22): "Amy Barksdale opened the cupboard to grab a pack of coffee grounds. She noticed that the cupboard was almost empty. There was one half-empty box and one unopened box left. She sighed as she retrieved a small brewing-cup and inserted it into her coffee machine."

Smoking Upside-Down Doesn't Make It Healthier!

Mr. DeMartino had better put out the cigarette, because today's the Great American Smokeout and he should probably think about quitting, anyway. I can't imagine those things are doing his already-shaky health any favors.

You can also celebrate Have a Bad Day Day if you want, but I don't recommend it. Daria would probably say that every day is a bad day for her, but I think any day with pizza in it can't be all bad.

Fandom News!

• RLobinske has a reminder about swearing in embedded media.


• Take a look at Buzzfeed's visual take on Daria, as well as other animated characters.


• Discuss the upcoming new season of The Bridge.

And Knead Bread...Whenever You Feel Like It!

Helen's hard at work for Homemade Bread Day, but if I were her I'd just break out that bread machine. I don't like to eat bread with souls, anyway.

Once you've got your bread in the oven, it's time to go out and enjoy nature for Take A Hike Day! I'm sure Mr. DeMartino will be happy to come along, but don't eat any glitterberries while you're out there.

Fanfic Update!

• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (part 7): "Daria looked across the table at Stacey, who was wearing her new X-Scope goggles. Stacey had ordered them a week earlier from Crop Circle Magazine, and they had arrived on Friday."


• National Cynic's Family Reunion (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "I hate Texas, Daria Morgendorffer thought to herself she drove the car past the state line. I was hoping I would never come back here. And yet, half of Dad's family had to live here."

You Could Even Recycle Your Fridge!

The Fashion Club is working hard for America Recycles Day, or rather Stacy is working and Sandi is supervising. Be sure to recycle today, and I don't just mean wearing the same outfit more than once!

While you're at it, you might want to take a look at your fridge for Clean Your Refrigerator Day, too. Try not to think too much about what that red stuff might be.

Fandom News!

• Discuss the recent tragedy in Paris, with a separate, related thread for political discussions about the attacks.


• Talk about the new movie The Martian in the Weapons of Mass Distraction forum.

Eep!

Today is a bad day to be superstitious, because it's Friday the 13th! Watch out for broken mirrors and indoor umbrellas, and especially watch out for Upchuck on the prowl. Then again, that's good advice every day of the year.

Fanfic Update!

• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (parts 5 and 6): "Quinn rolled her eyes as she listened to Mr. Deckard, one of the science teachers at Lawndale High, hand out the class's homework assignment. 'Remember, this is due by Monday. You have tomorrow and the rest of the weekend to work on it, so no excuses for not having it done,' Mr. Deckard said." (Part 6)


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 21): "'Say that again,' Sparks requested over the microphone. 'We're sending down some Navy Seals to investigate a missing submarine in the area. With tensions running high lately between China, Russia, and the members of the United Nations, we're just taking precautions,' said the man on the screen."

A Salute to Veterans

Mack is saluting not only George S. Patton, who was born on this day in 1885, but all veterans because today is also Veteran's Day. Thank you to all who served and still serve today.

Fandom News!

• Kara Wild has a question for PPMBers from the UK.


• Dervish wants to know if anyone is on IMVU or another "metaverse" site.


• Do you have recipes that use cherries, lemons, or both? Share in the thread!


• What do you think of the Kickstarter to fund a new season of MST3K?

So THAT'S Why They Call Him "Mad Mack"!

Mack's concocting something especially good for Inventors' Day, although it might just be a potion that will stop Kevin from calling him "Mack Daddy" once and for all. Or one that will force Jodie to scale back on the overachieving and actually spend more than five minutes with him. Either way, the kid seems to be having fun!

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Universe (I Dare You to Continue This), by neonhomer (part 1): "Jane sighed and pulled a spiral notebook out of her bag. 'Okay, Trent wants to exchange songs with "The Holidays".' 'So why are we going?'"


• Evicted, by breitasparrow (part 1): "Wal-Mart had reconstructed itself in South Park since its demise, and the civilians were once again left with no other places to shop. Stan went with his mom to buy some groceries, and when they got to the checkout, it took incredibly long for the clerk to ring up their purchases."


• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (parts 3 and 4): "Quinn reclined back in her seat as she watched a procession of data stream down her computer monitors. She looked over at GIR, who was busy eating some kind of Earth confection." (Part 4)

I Read, Therefore I Am

Daria is set for Book Lovers Day, and I hope you are, too! Knowing this fandom, I'm sure everyone's celebrating this one.

Still, if you need some ideas for reading material , may I suggest Albert Camus, who was born on this day in 1913? If you do, make sure you remember to coordinate your wardrobe first. I recommend "pseudo-intellectual poser with accessories from the street fair."

Fandom News!

• Guess who got an honorable mention on the list of Top 10 Social Awkward cartoon Characters.


• PrecambrianStudios posted a new challenge in Creative Writing: I Dare You to Continue This.


• Meester_Lee has a question about crossovers.

Remember, Remember....

Guy Fawkes Day has an important announcement to make, which is that today is Bonfire Night or Guy Fawkes Night or whatever you'd like to call it. Guy Fawkes Day just calls it "Bollocks," just like everything else.

Fanfic Update!

• Invader Quinn, by Anguirus1955 (parts 1 and 2): "Inside the cockpit of a small, purple ship, spherical in shape with four little engines or nasals attached to each corner, a set of fuscha eyes looked over a small screen with instructions. A green hand covered by black gloves moved forward and pressed a button on the control console." (Part 2)


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 20): "Daria and Jane slowly made their way to the bridge after school. 'So, I've just been thinking about it, and I was hoping to maybe join White Debbie and paint some of the dolphins or something,' Jane said."


• Perception, by Princess_Pasta (part 2): "'Have you seen Kevin? I mean, I know you've seen him but what is up with that? I'm thinking Invasion of the Bodysnatchers? Or, he's been replaced by a clone; a smarter more elite version of himself that's here to disrupt the delicate balance of our world.'"


• The Thompson Kids (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Jodie Landon looked at the e-mail on her computer screen with a raised eyebrow."

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

Helen has lost her mind and quit her job just in time for Housewife's Day, so maybe the Morgendorffers will be eating something other than frozen lasagna tonight. Let's just hope her cooking skills are better than Jake's.

Fandom News!

• You can have Daria give you directions on your TomTom.


• Talk about the newly-announced Star Trek TV series.


• Watch the list of Top 10 Sexual Innuendos in Kids Animated Series and add a few of your own.


• ST91 posted a new Iron Chef in Creative Writing: Amy with husband and children.

It Does Take Courage to Write a Novel

It's the beginning of National Novel Writing Month, so warm up your pen, pencil, or computer keyboard and start working on that masterpiece! It looks like Daria has hit a few snags, but don't let that stop you.

If you need some inspiration, you could read The Red Badge of Courage, written by Stephen Crane, who was born on this day in 1871. Contrary to Mr. O'Neill's teachings, however, I doubt you'll find it has much in common with the Wizard of Oz.

Fanfic Update!

• Black Cloaks of Lawndale, by Waylander (part 25): "Doctor Margaret Manson was sifting through Morgendorffer files, looking for the small details that can serve as a clue to understanding the young Necromancer."


• Casa Lane, by ST91 (COMPLETE!): "'Again?' Trent said one night while returning from Zon at the sight of a row of cars parked in front of his house."


• Christmas Morning (IC: Amy with husband and children), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Amy nibbled on a cookie and took a sip of milk as she watched her husband struggle to carry in the pile of Christmas gifts for their children. 'Greg, are you sure you don't need any help?' she whispered, careful not to wake their boys."


• Chuck (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "A thick covering of gray clouds had blanketed the evening sky, bringing with it chilling winds and rain. The entire week had been gloomy and dark, the awful weather affecting nearly everyone's mood."


• Lawndale & Sandi Griffin's Genie: Future Excerpt 2, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "At Lawndale High, Sandi, Chris, Sam, Sabrina, Nicki and Jennifer had finished their search of the Math area, when they saw another person enter. 'Hi, can I help you search for the Emerald?'"


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (parts 18 and 19): "Daria Morgendorffer was sitting down at her communications console at her station on the bridge. She looked over at Sparks. 'Hey, Sparks?' Daria asked. 'Yeah?' 'You ever wonder why we're here?' Daria asked him." (Part 19)


• Lawndale Z, by Kuriamo22 (part 5): "Jane yawned as both her and Daria sat on her bed at her house watching TV. It was the weekend, and they had fallen into the routine of not training on weekends."


• Let's Dance, by 11tee (part ): "Elsinore Sloane hung up her gown and then zipped up the garment bag. She enjoyed the dancing, but her date to the Fielding Formal turned out to be a bigger prick than she first assumed."


• Metal Rowe (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'Oh, my God! The goal post fell! Tommy Sherman's dead! He's dead!' Stacy's head jerked up as that cry interrupted Sandi Griffin's criticism of the skort Stacy had chosen that day."


• Not Alone (IC: Amy with husband and children), by ST91 (COMPLETE!): "The twins Alexander and Jessica Esposito-Barksdale realized something was wrong when they came home. They saw Amy Barksdale, their mother, talking frantically on the phone."


• Peacekeeper, by Zetor (part 1): "Lawndale is your average American suburb, just far enough from the city for it to be a pain to go there for anything but a special night out. Never mind which city, that's complicated."


• Perception, by Princess_Pasta (part 1): "Even through the tears in her eyes, Brittany Taylor kept her eyes focused on her long-time boyfriend, Kevin Thompson. It would be hard leaving him behind even if their relationship was rocky at best."


• Sisters of the Soybean (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Quinn walked over to Daria's room and looked at her sister as she slept. She looked at the clock on the stand next to her. Sighing, Quinn took a few steps forward and leaned over her sister's bed to look at Daria's sleeping form."


• Unnamed story (World's Shortest Crossover, Part XIV: The Crossover Awakens!), by Wraith (COMPLETE!): "The elevator opened, and the nurse started to pull Mrs. Sullivan's gurney into the hall. 'Someone was crying. From the children's ward.' Mrs. Sullivan said."


• The Unveiling, by Anonymous (COMPLETE!): "The park was very quiet and very empty when Jane and Daria finished pulling the drop cloth off of Jane's installation. The result of four months of constant work, it towered fearsomely over their heads."

Find a Monster in the Back of Your Fridge? Time to Clean it Out!

Jake's celebrating Look in the Back of Your Refrigerator Day with gusto, although he may just be on the hunt for some cheese. Hard to tell with that man.

This is also Frankenstein Friday, so this would be a good night to curl up with Mary Shelley's most famous work. We know from "Write Where It Hurts" that Daria's already read it, so now it's your turn if you haven't done so before!

Fandom News!

• Join the discussion about sex work vs. sex trafficking.


• angieo invites you to caption this scene.


• dmsfanman found another sighting of Daria on the web.


• Indigo posted a fanfic plot bunny: Repeat Offender.

I Don't Recommend Chocolate Plush Animals, Though

Mrs. Bennett's awfully excited about Plush Animal Lover's Day, and Upchuck seems to be as well for some odd reason. I'm not going to ask questions.

This is also National Chocolate Day, one of my personal favorite holidays. You can pry some chocolate away from Mrs. Johanssen, or just talk to Jane if you want to get your hands on some (evil laugh) unauthorized chocolate.

Fanfic Update!

• Black Cloaks of Lawndale, by Waylander (part 24): "A shiny red Mustang convertible was running through the streets of Highland. Several onlookers noticed something that left them speechless – there was no driver in the car."


• Black Widow (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "'I'm bored,' Quinn Morgendorffer said as she lied down on the couch in Amy Barksdale's living room. 'Oh? I thought your name was Quinn,' her cousin Erin joked."


• Broken (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Daria stretched her fingers as she climbed into the passenger seat of her father's Lexus. She'd been driving for two hours straight and her hands were cramping up like they always did when she had to drive."


• Clothes Make the Crush, by EntrancedCat (COMPLETE!): "'Miss, miss.' The clerk didn't approach as quickly as a Cashman's employee might come running to wait on the Fashion Club president but she got up from her position behind the counter and gave me my needed attention."


• The Duckling (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jane Lane waved to her brother as she started running. Trent was kicking a soccer ball with his friend Jesse, and though she wanted to linger and watch her brother's best friend, she also wanted to get out and breathe and stretch her legs."


• Escape (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Daria watched helplessly as her father ran down a marked off trail, ducking under a warning sign and disappearing around a bend. Her day just kept getting better."


• GOING, GOING, GONE! (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by ognawk (COMPLETE!): "Claire Defoe opened the door of her small apartment, a dripping umbrella in one hand and a stack of mail in the other. It had been an unseasonably rainy day in Lawndale, but she was thankful that she always came prepared for such things."


• The Great Crusade of Quinn the Red (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "The summer sun shone down on Lawndale's beach, warming the sands and water to just the right temperature for all students of Lawndale high, now free from their studies for the summer."


• Growing Pains (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "Rain cascaded against the windows of an inconspicuous looking black Honda, parked neatly between a large pick-up truck and a tan SUV. It was dark, the only light coming from the flickering glow of a yellowing streetlight outside."


• Inner Worth (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "Awkward silence permeated the Morgendorffer living room while the only two occupants of the house tried their best to coexist without actually interacting with one another."


• Jesse (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Daria sat on Jane's bed with a book sitting in her lap. Jane was sitting on a stool in front of her easel; a fistful of colored pencils in her left hand. It was a scene much like innumerable times in the past, but this night was different."


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 16): "In the darkened halls of a secure facility, several figures, all high-ranking men of various nations and governments, sat around in a large room. These men were collectively known as The Tribunal."


• Life And Love Of The Future Lane (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Jane looked over at Quinn after she came home. Both women were sharing an apartment in Lawndale, a place that neither had expected to return to after college."


• Odd-Job Anthony (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Anthony DeMartino put his hand out to stop the youthful-looking man in front of him. 'ID,' he requested."


• Perhaps (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Daria Morgendorffer sat across from her one-time teacher. Tony DeMartino was a fascinating man."


• Possibilities, by Sureia (part 27): "For Matt, Monday was a slightly less pleasant affair than it usually was. He'd risen early to get a run in and his muscles were already taking him to task over it, but it was preferable to dwelling on the events of the weekend."


• Rebirth (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "'Daria! You've been in there for thirty minutes already! SOME more popular members of the house would like to brush their teeth before they turn fifty!'"


• The Smart And The Ass (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "'So,' Michael Jordan 'Mack' Mackenzie said as he looked at Kevin, 'How does it feel to actually earn your title, Mr. QB?' Mack asked Kevin Thompson."


• Strangers; Lovers, by 11tee (parts 1 and 2): "'Elsie... Come here. We need to talk about your... Situation.'" (Part 2)


• Thirty Years, by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Claire Defoe and several of the other teachers looked at the slim girl as she made her way to the casket. She stepped forward and dropped a white carnation, then stepped back, tears in her eyes."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jane walked down the hallway toward the Women's locker room, backpack in hand. It was a misty day; cool and dreary. Perfect for running."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Amy sat on the bench and enjoyed the morning sun. It was still cool enough to sit in direct sunlight without feeling like she was baking."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Daria sipped at her drink; it was an odd cocktail of Jagermeister, prune juice, and RedBull. Despite the potential ramifications of mixing such as odd concoction, she found it was an eclectic mix she enjoyed."

Wanna Shoot a Pumpkin to Celebrate?

I hope you're ready for National Pumpkin Day, although what you're supposed to do with the pumpkin once you've got it is up to you. Carve it, turn it into a pie, throw it at Upchuck, whatever you want. Enjoy!

This is also the anniversary of the famous Gunfight at the OK Corral in 1881, not to be confused with the Gunfight at the OK-to-Cry Corral, when the campers just got completely fed up with Mr. O'Neill.

Fandom News!

• Share your favorite music scores from otherwise bad movies.


• Check out this sweet Calvin & Hobbes video in the thread.

Looks Like She's Even Got the Utility Belt!

Jane's off to save the day in honor of the late Bob Kane, who was born on this day in 1915. Kane created the Batman character, and while Jane's costume doesn't really match that of any of the Bat-related heroes, it's close enough for me. Whether Jane plans to stop supervillains or just sleep upside-down and spread rabies is up to her.

Fanfic Update!

• Aftermath (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "The words on the page blurred in and out of focus as Jane fought back against the tears that threatened to overwhelm her. It was so personal that she felt disgusted for reading it but something compelled her to push forward."


• All My Memories of Now (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Helen walked away from the parking area and over to the front entrance of the Zon, noticing the state of decay in the building's outer layers. This place should be condemned, she thought as she walked inside."


• As One (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "'So, how does it feel to be a member of the graduating class of 1986?' 'It would feel a hell of a lot better if I wasn't out here getting eaten alive by damn mosquitoes. I really hate fish.'"


• Before The Storm (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Princess_Pasta (COMPLETE!): "A wide expanse of water stretched out before her, the quiet calm of the early morning making her pause a moment just to enjoy it. It wasn't often that Quinn got to relax and even less so that she got to go camping."


• Busted! (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Daria walked home from Jane's house, contemplating what her friend was experiencing. Jane was dating a boy from another school for over a month, and while Daria was a little jealous at first, she was thrilled to see her friend actually connect with somebody- at least until last night."


• Dammit Daria, by SexshiTiTePaNtZ (part 4): "Jane followed Daria out to the garage and watched as Daria swept her bushy bangs out from in front of her glasses. 'Do you need a hat to hold your hair back?' Jane asked as Daria opened the door for her."


• Daria The Mighty, by Anguirus1955 (part 8): "As soon as Daria entered her room, she plopped down on her bed and fell asleep. Quinn turned off the light in her sister's room and closed the door before making her way back to her own room."


• The First Time (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Jodie Landon looked across the table at her younger sister, Rachel. She had grown a lot over the years."


• How I Met Andrea (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Zetor (COMPLETE!): "Trent paused the TV and looked over his family. Next to him on the couch sat his wife. Andrea wore her dark hair longer these days, but her various piercings were still visible; she loved the way they freaked out the other parents in the PTA."


• The Hunt for Scarlett the Fairy, by Aloysius (COMPLETE!): "Have you ever wondered how you hunt a wild fairy? No?"


• Lawndale 2021, by Anguirus1955 (part 15): "We cut to the interior of Sealab as several crew members sit around a large table with envelopes, tablets, and papers. There are some computers in the room, with Upchuck stationed at one of them. He looks over at the camera before returning to his duties."


• Rollin', by 11tee (part 2): "Jodie Landon pushed her chair frantically across the court amidst the yells and whoops of both her own team-mates and her opponents. She hurled the ball to her own team-member, then was hit- hard."


• Smorgasbord Shuffle (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by Anguirus1955 (COMPLETE!): "Steve Taylor looked at the unusual concoction on his plate. He had no idea what it was, and it smelled... potentially life-threatening."


• Was it a Dream?, by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Jodie woke up with a start; her heart was pounding, and her sheets were soaked with sweat once again. The recurring nightmares were so vivid she swore she her body felt shattered as the last fleeting images of the wing-suit trip vanished."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Stacy strapped on her skates and looked out at the other early-birds to the practice. Brittany and Tiffany were present, but so far, none of the other team members were there."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "'J... Janet... Can we talk about this? Please?' 'Quiet, Skinny. It isn't your choice. Not anymore.'"


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Trent looked at his little sister as she tried sitting up off her bed. He found her just minutes before on the floor with an empty soda bottle spilled across her desk. She was sweating, and her skin was very pale."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Quinn Morgendorffer looked across the blanket at the love of her life. The picnic was something they kept talking about but never had time for- not given their incredibly busy schedules."


• Unnamed story (A different Type of Writing Challenge), by 11tee (COMPLETE!): "Tiffany Blum-Deckler sat in front of her computer; it was late on a Friday afternoon, and she was bored. Lawndale State was a mediocre university in most subjects, but in several areas it shined."