Ten! Nine! Eight! And so forth!

It doesn't look like Daria's going to make it to midnight for New Year’s Eve, but the rest of us can have the countdown to 2024 while she takes a nap. Just count quietly, okay? And have a great new year!

It was on this day in 2002 that Daria made a (very) brief appearance on MTV's annual New Year's Eve show. Given her usual preferences, though, we should count ourselves lucky she was willing to show up at all.

Finally, a special shout out to Andrea for National Andrea Day! I hope she gets to read some of her best poetry, or at least that her shift at PayDay isn't too annoying.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Tom Smothers.


• Dennis is seeking beta readers for his new GTS story.


• Read about and discuss what Derek calls "the Fyre Festival of the Seas" being cancelled.


• Share your thoughts on silly false alarms.

Yo Yo Rah!

Brittany is surprisingly focused for International Cello Day, but if she's found something she's good at (besides twirling her hair around her finger and looking vacant) then I'm all for it. Bow away, Brittany!

Jake, on the other hand, needs to back away from the spice rack. Just because it's Pepper Pot Day doesn't mean he should use too much (or perhaps any) pepper in his cooking. His tongue only just returned to its normal color!

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (parts 9 and 10): "Daria had fallen into a routine that seemed to just burn time by the time the interschool match came about, and Daria was now preparing to fight their designated opponents." (Part 10)


• The Pawshank Redemption, by Kristen Bealer (COMPLETE!): "Brian Taylor, Chris Griffin, and Courtney and Adrian Lane trudged through the Crewe Neck neighborhood towards the Taylor house in sullen silence."


• SpiderGirl’s Debut, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "Having, read the article, Quinn Morgendorffer left the café. She smiled. The various criminals had been put on notice, in a way."

Witness for the Persecution of Male Students

Ms. Barch looks much classier than usual, thanks to her alter ego as Marlene Dietrich, who was born on this day in 1901. Don't be fooled, though. Behind that calm, suave exterior beats the heart of a raving lunatic.

For those who prefer their celebrities to be more childish and fictional, it was on this day in 1947 that the first episode of Howdy Doody was broadcast. Decades later, Upchuck would do a fantastic job of emulating the puppet without even trying.

Finally, it may be winter but there's no reason you can't celebrate Visit the Zoo Day! Especially if you're looking for inspiration for a new hairstyle.

Fandom News!

• Share your Christmas greetings.

Ho, Ho, Huh?

It doesn't appear that Christmas, or "X" as he prefers to be called, is feeling very jolly on his holiday. Perhaps he found some coal in his stocking? Or it could be that his gingerbread cookies were stale. Either way, I hope that he cheers up and, more importantly, that everyone in fandom who celebrates today has a merry Christmas!

There are just too many Daria Christmas fanfics to list here individually, but you can find a lot of them at Outpost Daria Reborn. Enjoy!

Fanfic Update!

• Reader Reviews, by Missy (COMPLETE!): "'Daria, mom just finished your book. Whatever you do, don’t turn your phone on!'"


• Titanic - A True Story, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (parts 15 and 16): "It was once again the day when Larry's life had changed forever." (Part 16)

Something Fishy is Going On

Daria's having a pretty bad day, but it should come as some comfort to know that she's helping to recreate the catching of the first live coelacanth, which happened on this day in 1938. Okay, it's probably not very comforting, especially because it probably isn't historically accurate. I mean, who would bait a hook with a sarcastic teenager?

I hope she at least feels free to air her grievances, because it's Festivus and that's one of the main traditions of the day! Also for some reason putting up a metal pole, but I think the airing of grievances is more relevant right now.

Fandom News!

• Tell everyone about your favorite holiday decoration.


• Vote in the Deadliest Warrior poll between Wolverine and Freddy Krueger.


• Talk about how the Morgendorffers celebrate Christmas.

This Holiday is a Little TOO Bright

Half of Lawndale appears to be celebrating National Flashlight Day, but I really don't think wandering around the woods is the best place to celebrate. Especially because there's a high chance that they're freaking out the other half of Lawndale right now.

On the other hand, perhaps they're just taking a super literal approach to Look on the Bright Side Day, in which case they're going a little overboard. I really think one flashlight would have been plenty.

Last but not least (unless there's a pun involved), today is National Short Girl Appreciation Day. Since Daria and I are both the same height--five feet, two inches--I think we should both get a little recognition. And maybe some help reaching that thing on the top shelf.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Enrolls at Nevermore, by Meester_Lee (part 13): "Classes started bright and early the following morning, much to Daria’s distaste. Her first class wasn’t really a class, at least not yet: it was a testing session to see how much magic Nevermore’s newly-arrived witches and wizards knew or could perform."

Admittedly, It's Probably a Fake Tree Anyway

Daria's having a surprising amount of difficulty on Look for an Evergreen Day, especially considering all she has to do is turn around. On the bright side, she did find Cupid, a leprechaun, and the slowly dawning realization that she's losing her mind. Cheers!

Still, while she's going insane she might as well go all in and re-create the scene in the Beavis and Butt-head episode "It's a Miserable Life," in which she's singing Christmas carols, has a boyfriend, and is smiling! I know, I'm a little frightened, too. Just remember that it was an alternate reality and never really happened.

For those of you not in the holiday spirit, there's also the anniversary of the premiere of the movie Titanic on this day in 1997. I'd say that Mr. O'Neill and Ms. Barch could give that "standing on the bow of the ship" scene another shot, but there's a good chance the water is frozen. Better wait until there's a chance of one or both of them drowning!

Fandom News!

• dennis71 shares what he's been up to.


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Rick Sanchez and Simon Bar Sinister.

Who'd Like to Appreciate a Nice Space Heater Right Now?

It probably goes without saying that Jane and Daria are not happy to be celebrating the Festival of Winter Walks. In fact, I think Mr. DeMartino would probably draw the line at this particular environment for hiking, and not only because he'd risk falling over a cliff again.

I hope Helen knows that it's National Device Appreciation Day, although I think she appreciates that cell phone more than enough as it is. Quinn, too, should thank the phone for helping her maximize both her social life and the Morgendorffers' telecom bills.

Fanfic Update!

• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 77): "At first a very shocked Anna just stayed frozen on the spot after what happened, a silent Shadow was still holding her left hand and together they listened as Lockie climbed the first set of stairs, and a second staircase after that, and then she also climbed a third and final set somewhere so high up in the house."

How About Pearls, an Ugly Sweater, AND a Hoop Skirt?

Jane defies Nathan to tell her she can't celebrate National Wear Your Pearls Day, and I think if he pushes her too far he might find himself strangled by those pearls instead. Better let the girl do what she wants, buddy. It's for your own good.

If pearls are too classy for you, there's always National Ugly Sweater Day! Just don't tell the Fashion Club...I don't think they could stand the horror of it.

For those who really want to dress up, how about going full Civil War-era cosplay as a character from the movie Gone With the Wind, which premiered on this day in 1939? Quinn and Daria might even watch it together, although probably not in costume.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Andre Braugher.


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Hot Lips Houlihan and Dixie McCall.

Giddyup!

I see that Jake and Helen are enjoying National Horse Day. Perhaps enjoying it a little too much. I guess what two consenting adults get up to in the privacy of their own home is between them...and the teenagers who'd better hope they don't walk in at an inopportune moment.

In fact, it might be a good idea for Daria and Quinn to celebrate Ice Cream Day by going out for a cone or dish of their favorite flavors. Might I suggest Firstdown Fudge, courtesy of the Bro and QB Ice Cream Company?

Considering that, at least in the Northern Hemisphere, it's a bit cold for ice cream, you could also choose to observe National Cocoa Day instead. Quinn can even tell us all about that TV movie about the really cute family of teens who drank cocoa during a hurricane.

Fanfic Update!

• Merry Stressmas, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "In the living room was a fully decorated Christmas tree while Teddy Carbone and his best/only friend, Rachel White, were watching TV." (Part 2) (Part 3)


• A Variant Lawndale, by cfardellbrenorenz29 (part 4): "Jane paddled out to the wave and started to surf. However, there was trouble. Tori had entered straight after her and was dropping in on her."

Dancing Cheek to Mane

Daria seems to be an unwilling participant in National Tango Day, and one must wonder: if a lion and a teenager dance, who leads? Trick question; the teenager immediately sues the lion for invasion of personal space.

Unfortunately, Helen won't be able to take the case because she's probably too busy suing UNICEF on the anniversary of its creation in 1946. Please, Helen, try to remind Eric that UNICEF has nothing to do with manufacturing tires, okay?

Finally, we should let the Wilderness Adventure Club know that today is International Mountain Day and they should try their hand at climbing a mountain again. At least, we could have done that if the Wilderness Adventure Club hadn't presumably disbanded immediately after that fiasco with the blizzard.

Fandom News!

• Shiva reports a certification invalid message.


• R.I.P., Honey Boo-Boo.

"When Dead Clowns Can't Clown...."

Looks like today is Tad Gupty's lucky day, because it's Lost and Found Day and he's both! Until Tom and Daria get distracted and he gets lost again...but then he'll get found again, too! It's like he's caught in one of those vicious...things.

Cheer up, Tad; it's also the anniversary of Emmett Kelly's birth in 1898, and who doesn't love a happy clown? Emmett Kelly, apparently, because he specialized in sad clowns. At least he was able to inspire that artist from Art in the Park to be not in the least bit original.

Ms. Li had better watch out, though, because it's International Anti-Corruption Day and, well, she's pretty much 100% corruption. I guess if you're going to do something, don't go by half-measures.

Fanfic Update!

• Bad Bromance, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Kevin, Chuck, Jamie and Chris were hanging out on the porch drinking beer despite the fact that it's cold outside."


• Daria: Cynic The Superheroine, by Meester_Lee (part 4): "They didn’t go upstairs. Once Daria’s ID problems were squared away, they went downstairs to one of the Interrogation rooms instead."


• Daria on the Trail, by meesterlee (part 57): "'You look worried,' said Susana. 'I am worried,' I said."


• Shameless Self Insert Into Daria, by James the Lesser (part 10): "'Put that down right now! If you don't you'll ruin it!'"


• This is Not America, by ladyevil (part 2): "Helen was looking at her unlined face in the mirror of her locker, focusing on getting her hair perfectly ratted up before her next class."


• Titanic - A True Story, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 14): "Anna did not have any more coffee after learning of its dangerous powers, she became a lot more peaceful as the hours passed, Larry was relieved and so their first day of dating was pretty normal after all of that."

Good Luck Waving Your Pom-Poms Now!

Poor Brittany doesn't look very enthusiastic about portraying the title character of Edward Scissorhands, which premiered on this day in 1990. Can you blame her, though? The next time she twirls a lock of hair around her finger, she'll probably give herself an unwanted haircut...or worse.

Not only that, but she's going to have to pass up Letter Writing Day as well. Not that she ever did much writing in the first place. Daria, on the other hand, sent and received a handful of letters throughout the series. In fact, she even (briefly) broke up with Tom by letter, which is kind of a jerk move if you ask me.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Norman Lear.

Lip Gloss On, Lip Gloss Off

Sandi's getting ready to prove her dominance over the Fashion Club by any means necessary, thanks to International Ninja Day. Quinn had better either look out or learn some martial arts. Just remember to sweep the leg!

Whatever she does, Quinn should take extra care of her pants because it's National Blue Jeans Day and she doesn't want any more jeans-related catastrophes. Jake only has so much cash to give away, and her guardian angel just isn't that attentive.

Perhaps the Morgendorffer parents will try to observe National Communicate With Your Kids Day, although that doesn't tend to go very well. If Helen doesn't take them clothes shopping then Jake will accuse them of being Communists and, either way, someone's going to end up angry.

Fanfic Update!

• Titanic - A True Story, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 13): "That day was so peaceful at sea that most of the millionaire First-class travelers continued to have social walks on the decks, everything felt like the powerful engines of the Titanic had now settled to work properly, Captain Smith continued to hunt for the riffraff that had not been sprayed yet and meanwhile something very strange was happening on the ship of dreams."

Maybe Just Wear a Helmet

Don't worry, Daria, you can still celebrate National Roof over Your Head Day...for the time being. Don't let the threat of imminent structural collapse thanks to shoddy workmanship and a stingy principal interrupt your studies. Unless you, I don't know, enjoy surviving.

Helen, meanwhile, might get out that hobbit candle because it's Candle Day! Or maybe she should just leave it put away in that drawer. That thing is...not pleasant to look at.

Finally, someone tell Wind that today is National Ronald Day, and he can go ahead and change his name if he still wants to. There's no naming gazebo to get in the way!

Fandom News!

• Talk about the death of Henry Kissinger.


• George Santos has been expelled from Congress.

How About Painting a Red Apple?

I see Jamie is celebrating Eat a Red Apple Day, but unfortunately it appears that someone will soon be celebrating Eat a Jamie (or is it Jerome?) day. It kind of makes me wonder why only red apples are getting love today, though. What's wrong with green ones?

No one tell Jane that today is Day Without Art Day, because I'm pretty sure she will completely refuse to celebrate it. After all, for Jane a day without art is like...well, she wouldn't know what it's like, would she?

Regardless of how much art she does or doesn't do today, I hope she and Daria have each other's backs, because it's also National Women Support Women Day. I think it goes without saying that Quinn and Sandi will not be participating in this one.

Fanfic Update!

• Bad Bromance, by wilddogjj (part 2): "The Thompsons' entire house and property are now coated in human waste due to the sewage pipe Kevin had accidentally ruptured."


• Stranger Without Time, by radiofox (part 10): "'Hey, Anna.' Graham walked up to Anna's locker. 'Hey Graham, what are you up to?' Anna closed her locker and turned to her friend."

They're Eating...UNAUTHORIZED Chocolate!

I see Daria and Tom are way ahead of me on National Chocolates Day, but rest assured it won't take me long to catch up. I'm sure Mrs. Johanssen would love to celebrate as well, as long as she can find someone willing to sell her some chocolate.

No chocolate for Evan, though, even if it is National Evan Day. In the case of Evan Landon, he's just a baby and shouldn't have any. In the case of Evan from the track team, well...he's kind of a baby, too, and I don't think he deserves any chocolate after the way he treated Jane.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Marty Kroftt.

Jakey Hendrix

Jake's giving that guitar everything he's got in honor of Jimi Hendrix, who was born on this day in 1942. I doubt Jake could ever hope to reach Hendrix's level of skill (who could?), but I hope he tries his hand at composing another song for the school musical. He can even write it about dogs if he wants.

Whatever he does, I hope he doesn't forget to attend the branding conference, because it's National Brand Day and I'm sure he'd hate to keep those poor cows waiting. Wait, was that not the point of the conference? Huh.

Finally, one must wonder if the Fashion Club will celebrate Cyber Monday, since it's a holiday about shopping but also about computers. The last thing they'd want is to be mistaken for computer geeks.

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (part 8): "As Daria and Jane ate their pizza at their selected thankfully indoor table Daria asked 'So you mentioned Hun Pino was trying to stoke a trans panic because Ikki hails from the Air Nation which has been famously tolerant of human sexual orientations and gender identities, which you seemed to indicate was unlikely to take hold?'"


• Bad Bromance, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Kevin was in his back yard with a shovel. He plunged the shovel into some dirt and struggled to get it in."


• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 76): "Anna knew, as soon as she had set foot into that house, that this was going to be nothing like the wonderful night that she and Lockie had spent at Avalon's place."


• Spider Quinn 03: Comes Great Responsibility, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "As Amy and Daria talked, Helen talked to her mother. 'Do you know what happened?' Theresa Barksdale asked."

Anyone Want to Shop for Baseball Equipment?

Mr. O'Neill wants everyone to know that today is the anniversary of Joe DiMaggio's birth in 1914, but he hopes that the realization that DiMaggio is currently deceased won't adversely affect anyone's emotional well-being...and he's crying. I think it's a new record!

The Fashion Club won't need to be informed about Shopping Reminder Day, because they don't need a special holiday--or any excuse, really--to go shopping.

However, it might be a good idea to shop small for Small Business Saturday, because places like Payday already have enough money. On the other hand, buying from people like Earl and Barbara just encourages them to make weird product choices.

Fandom News!

• Share your picks for the best tributes to a deceased cast member on a TV show.

Happy Turkey Day to Everyone in the U.S.!

Looks like Pilgrim Quinn will be missing out on the Thanksgiving feast, but I don't suppose it's a great loss. It's not like she was going to have anything aside from a few carrot sticks and maybe a long sniff of pumpkin pie.

If she does feel like having a snack later, she could always celebrate National Cashew Day. As Jake says, they are a first-class nut! Not like those wannabe peanuts.

Finally, happy anniversary to this very blog, which first went online on this day in 2007. Sixteen years later, it's still going and old enough to get its driver's license!

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 03: Comes Great Responsibility, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Jane knocked on Daria’s door. 'Come in,' Daria said."

Who's Up For Some Binge-Watching?

Daria and Jane have settled in for World Television Day, and I assume they're tuning into a Sick, Sad World marathon. Go ahead and watch whatever you want, but bonus points for anyone who watches any Daria episodes.

The more ambitious among us may choose to celebrate National Entrepreneur's Day instead, perhaps by starting their own business. How about a TV-watching business? Jodie will probably participate in this one, especially if she ever managed to build her own consulting firm geared toward minority start-ups.

Finally, I'd just like to greet everyone in honor of World Hello Day: Hello! There, that's over with.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Rosalynn Carter.

Don't Forget to Wash Your Hands!

Daria's going to spend a bit of quality time with her friend the Talking Toilet in honor of World Toilet Day, but hopefully she'll let someone else have a turn if they need it. Jake might also be spending some quality time with the toilet, but only because he still can't remember to check for toilet paper before he gets started.

I'm sure he'll be out in time to celebrate International Men's Day, though, but don't tell Ms. Barch about it. Please do tell any smartasses who like to complain about International Women's Day by claiming they don't get their own holiday, however. It probably won't shut them up, but it's worth a shot.

Once both Daria and Jake are out of the bathroom, they can play a friendly board game for Play Monopoly Day! We all know how it'll end, though: Jake will start losing badly and begin bargaining away punishments in order to save his skin. Go get him, Daria!

Fanfic Update!

• Crappy Thanksgiving, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Freezing rain continues to fall over Philadelphia International Airport. Inside the central terminal Kevin is using a fake ID to get into the American Airlines Admirals Club." (Part 3)

I Guess She Really "Kneaded" the Dough! (groan)

Looks like Helen is already regretting her decision to celebrate Homemade Bread Day, perhaps because hand-kneaded bread having more "soul" means you have to sell yours in order to get through the process. Just get out the bread machine, Helen!

In fact, maybe she should just forget the bread and celebrate Take A Hike Day instead! I'm sure Mr. DeMartino would be happy to join her, but hopefully she'll remember not to eat any berries she finds along the journey.

When Mr. D comes back, who wants to tell him that it's also International Students Day? If we're lucky, he'll just turn back around and take another hike until the feelings of rage subside.

Fandom News!

• Check out Daria's appearance in "Seventeen" Magazine.

The Fashion Club Doesn't Even Recycle Outfits

I really hope the Fashion Club isn't just throwing out their rejected newsletters because it's America Recycles Day and they should do their best to keep things out of landfills. At the very least, they could hold onto them until their bad advice comes back into style, and then recycle the newsletters as timely suggestions!

If you have anything you want to get rid of that's still in good condition, please consider donating it in honor of National Philanthropy Day. Yes, belly chains and go-go boots count, if you must.

I'm sure Daria would be happy to donate her old Camp Grizzly shirt, even though it's National Camp T-Shirt Day and this would be a great opportunity to break out that awesome chant: Go, Grizzlies! Go, Grizzlies! Go...away.

Fanfic Update!

• Crappy Thanksgiving, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Jim, Chuck (formerly Upchuck) and Chris (Jim's brother) were in Jim's man cave. The reason they weren't outside hanging out with Kevin on his porch is because the weather's bad, with dark gray skies and heavy rain."


• Crushing Timmy, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Timmy and Kayla were walking home from the mall. Timmy carried Kayla's shopping bags as they approached his house." (Part 3)


• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 75): "At first Anna Felicia had been so confident about what would happen that night, and yet now that she was facing the bloody thing for real, she was not so sure about Lockie's psychological strategy anymore."


• Spider Quinn 03: Comes Great Responsibility, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "After running some distance into fog, Quinn took to the rooftops and trees, and swung aimlessly around Lawndale."

A Rare Tender Lane Family Moment

Jane seems pleased enough to celebrate National Hug a Musician Day, but probably only because it's Trent. I suspect Nick and Max would not be so lucky. Jesse, on the other hand? Hmmm....

This hug is especially appropriate because it's Caregiver Appreciation Day! Of course, it's up for some debate which of the two takes care of the other, but I think it's safe to say they both had more of a role in each other's upbringing than their parents did.

Finally, let's all enjoy World Kindness Day, not necessarily by hugging anyone (especially if they'd prefer you didn't), but just by treating everyone as well as we can. Even Daria, blunt and cynical as she was, did show kindness at least occasionally. Generally when no one was looking.

Fandom News!

• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Rom vs. Jar Jar Binks.

Watch Out for Paper Cuts!

Jane is giving Jake some free lessons on World Origami Day, and I think they're well-stocked on duckies. Perhaps a nice flower or a boat?

If paper is too flimsy for you, you could celebrate National Metal Day instead. Technically the holiday is about the music genre, but I'd like to think Metalmouth is out there living his best life today.

Finally today is both National Timothy Day and National Education Day, and I must emphasize that Mr. O'Neill and education are linked in the vaguest possible way.

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (part 7): "Daria entered the school when the PE teacher walked up to her saying 'DARIA MORGENDORFFER.'"


• Crushing Timmy, by wilddogjj (part 1): "Quinn, her husband Jim and their triplet sons Tommy, Timmy and Teddy were in the living room. Quinn and Jim were dressed up for a night on the town."


• This is Not America, by ladyevil (part 1): "'You brought enough for the whole class, Michael?' Ms. Barch asked in study hall."

Tell Us What You REALLY Think, Jane!

While Jane is certainly celebrating Go to an Art Museum Day, it doesn't look like she's enjoying the trip very much. Then again, she could just be annoyed that none of the works on display are Jane Lane originals.

If art isn't for you, you could still create something new by celebrating National Inventors' Day! Not the folding coffee cup, though. Andrew Landon already has that particular market cornered.

Whichever holiday you choose, make sure you celebrate wildly because it's Chaos Never Dies Day and, well, you don't want to let the chaos die, do you? Given some of the insanity that happened in certain Daria episodes, I suspect Daria would happily murder it with her bare hands.

Fandom News!

• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Rusty Burrell and Bull Shannon.

Hell Is Other Chemists

Quinn is fully prepared to isolate some radium in honor of Marie Curie, who was born on this day in 1867. I suppose if Quinn did want to work in a science, she could do worse than chemistry. There would be no dissecting animals or digging in the dirt, for example! She might need to worry about that glowing skin, though.

When she's done with her experiments, she could always change into her black turtleneck and read something by Albert Camus, who was born on this day in 1913. I don't know how she feels about existentialism, but I'm sure she can handle some accessories from the street fair.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Enrolls at Nevermore, by Meester_Lee (part 12): "Daria decided to make her first move against Catherine on Sunday. She’d come to believe that Catherine was a spy for the INES for Truth organization, although what reasons she didn’t know."


• Kids in America, by ladyevil (part 1): "Daria was sitting in the waiting room at Dr. Becky’s office. Her mother and sister were both yakking on their cell phones."


• Shoes Of Death, by radiofox (COMPLETE!): "'Mr. D, can I go get some water?' Kevin raised his hand. 'I would prefer if it you didn't go during class but any time without you is good time.'"

Remember, Remember....

Guy Fawkes Day, or Bonfire Night as he's more commonly referred to, has a special holiday message for everyone! What? Why, yes, it is "Bollocks!" However could you possibly have guessed?

Back on this side of the Atlantic, Kevin will be celebrating American Football Day by either playing or watching his favorite game. In fact, he might try to do both at once! I'm sure it won't end in a spectacular failure that causes injury to Kevin and amusement to everyone else.

Finally, it's National Redhead Day and we should all wish a happy day to Daria's most well-known redhead...Upchuck! Or maybe Artie! No? Hmm. Ms. Defoe? Oh, what about Jeffy? I suppose Penny counts....

Fandom News!

• Check out the Metalmouth Jack O'lantern Erin M found.

Just Wait Until Trent's Peanut Butter Craving Kicks In....

I think Jane and Daria should really pick a different way to celebrate Sandwich Day. I mean, we know where that sandwich has been (Daria's butt) and we don't know how long it's been in the Tank. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if there was a microscopic civilization thriving inside that peanut butter right now.

Kevin should probably celebrate Give Someone a Dollar Day five times over, at least if he's still wearing Ms. Barch's ugly costume. I'm happy to accept bills of any denomination, so feel free to celebrate this holiday as much as you want!

I'm afraid Helen has a difficult choice ahead of her, though, because it's both Love Your Lawyer Day and Housewife's Day, and she's barely able to keep up with the stress of even one of those options. I think we all know she's going to pick work over home, so the question is really moot anyway.

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (part 6): "'Hello?' said Hellen as she answered a phone call as the rest of the family ate."


• Daria on the Trail, by meesterlee (part 56): "We departed late the next morning: we spent part of it having Katy Harris’ funeral and burial service."


• Happy Halloween, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (COMPLETE!): "Lawndale was for sure one of the best places to enjoy a Halloween night!"

Day of the Brain Dead, Anyway

Tiffany is ready to celebrate Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, which begins tonight. Of course, as soon as she realizes she holding a skull, she'll probably shout "Ewwww," drop it, and give herself a thorough manicure.

I'm sure the incident won't bother her too much, though, because that would require her to hold onto a thought for more than two seconds at a time. She probably doesn't need to concern herself with National Stress Awareness Day, although Jake might want to. "Why do people keep telling me I'm stressed? If I weren't stressed, I'd get stressed by everyone telling me I'm stressed!"

In fact, perhaps he should relax and try some calming oral hygiene for National Brush Day. Tad and Tricia Gupty can't wait to get to the part with the flossing!

Fandom News!

• Share your choices for the most zany cartoon characters.

"Nothing."

Jake isn't taking Look in the Back of Your Refrigerator Day at all metaphorically, and I hope he finds some cheese or whatever it is he's looking for. Amanda Lane might consider spending the day figuring out if those red stains are cranberry juice, cherry soda, or...something worse. What kind of secrets are the Lanes hiding?

I suppose it could just be a prank, though, since it's Mischief Night and therefore the ideal time for pranks. No doubt the physical embodiment of Halloween is gathering up toilet paper and eggs at this very moment.

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (part 5): "Daria flushed the bog, having barfed all her breakfast into it, the feeling of her skull in three pieces persisting like it had actually happened."


• Daria on the Trail, by meesterlee (part 55): "We resumed our journey after the other wagon got repaired. Our trail grew increasingly hilly the further west we got from the Green River."


• Hero of Lake Erie, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (COMPLETE!): "As day after day passed in clueless silence, the sudden disappearance became even more puzzling and mysterious for everyone at Lawndale."


• I STAY, by O-L-D-D (part 7): "Things were scarily quiet for a while, outside of the occasional manic mutter from a Daria very unaccustomed to feeling so out of her own head."


• Spider Quinn 02 With Great Power, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "Sandi Griffin was annoyed. Quinn was late to the Fashion Club meeting!"

Trick or Treat, Hug a Sheep, Give Me Something Plush to Squeeze!

Little Daria's got her costume and her candy bucket all ready for National Trick or Treat Day, and I hope she gets plenty of ZooZoo Drops and Juicy Joes! Jane should steer clear of those blue M&Ms she hates so much, but I'll happily take them off her hands if she doesn't want them.

Be on the lookout for anyone in a sheep costume, because it's Hug a Sheep Day! If you want to hug an actual sheep, just take Quinn's advice and avoid the dirty ones. Ewwwwww!

I suppose Quinn would be better off hugging a stuffed sheep, which is great because it's Plush Animal Lover’s Day! I'm sure Mrs. Bennett will be collecting some extra Fuzzy Wuzzy Wee Bits today, although it wouldn't surprise me if she and Herbert have already gotten every single one in existence.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Richard Roundtree and Richard Moll.

Who's Up For a Pumpkin Spice Whatever?

Dawn is here, headphones and all, to remind us to celebrate National Pumpkin Day! How you celebrate is up to you; you can carve a jack-o-lantern or make a pie or even chuck it at annoying people. (Brittany? Kevin? Duck.)

While we're on the subject of annoying people, today is also National Noah Day and I hope Noah Barkman enjoys a nice pot of kombucha. Or, depending on how things went for Buzzdome after the dotcom bubble popped, finds a new job before they repossess his car.

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (parts 3 and 4): "Jinora entered the Gu Wi highschool and at the front desk said 'Hi, I have an appointment with-'" (Part 4)


• Glowing Steel, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (COMPLETE!): "The Track Team of Lawndale High was a total disaster. Ever since the day when Jane Lane had decided to betray them all, things just kept getting worse for the prestige and performance of the team."

Boxing Brittany

Brittany is making sure everyone knows that today is National Kangaroo Awareness Day, and it's kind of hard not to be aware of a giant kangaroo with blond ponytails. Of course, if that doesn't do the trick, I'm sure Brittany's killer right hook would get anyone's attention.

I hope she'll stop and have a snack, though, because it's also Food Day and I don't want to see what her temper is like when she's hangry. I'm sure no one does, least of all Kevin. Quick! Someone go get a cheeseless bell pepper pizza!

Finally, on this day in 2000, Wraith posted an essay on the episode "See Jane Run." It's not very long, but it's a great snapshot of what fan reactions to the show were like while the show was still airing.

They're Just Nuts about Mothers In Law!

It seems It's a Nutty, Nutty, Nutty World has stepped up its marketing campaign for National Nut Day and Daria has dragged Jane in to join her in the misery. And she thought having to smile was bad!

Still, it beats being at home, especially if Grandma Ruth has dropped in for a Mother-In-Law Day's visit. Throw in the never-seen but always-terrible Grandma Barksdale and you'll have a real catastrophe on your hands.

I'm sure the Yeagers will be happy to know that Timothy Leary was born on this day in 1920, so I hope they give whichever number dog they're up to some extra pats to celebrate. Any idea on how things are coming along with that real Timothy Leary replacement?

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama Of Daria, by psychotol (part 2): "Jinora and Asami emerged out of the studio and turned their phones back on as they headed for the stairwell, and Asami read a text and commented 'Ugh.'"


• Daria on the Trail, by meesterlee (part 54): "An axle broke on one of the Johnson Company’s wagons the next day. We and the Johnson Company were still traveling together, so Captain Trout ordered our wagons to come to a stop while Mr. Ruffin and his friends set about replacing their broken axle."


• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 74): "Anna's tree drawings were selling fair and square so far, her work had indeed attracted a lot of attention and yet her true success of that day at the Art Fair was something very different, something that she had not even imagined that would happen..."


• Kevin, Portrait of a QB, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Brittany was carrying a hamper full of dirty laundry as she made her way to the basement. She opened the door and went down the stairs. What she saw down there made her drop the laundry and gasp in shock."

Eh, 35% of Statistics are Made Up Out of Thin Air

Quinn may not be enjoying World Statistics Day, but it looks like her employees are having an even worse day. I guess Quinn does have a quite a bit of Helen in her, both in the sense of taking no nonsense from anyone and looking good in a pantsuit.

If any of Jane's family members are around to hear about it, today is also National Lane Day! Apparently the name could mean anything from a literal lane to wool to a warrior descendant, but in that family it really just means "absent."

I don't know about warriors, but Trent has a high probability of being descended from sloths. Fortunately, as today is International Sloth Day, he's in good company!

Fandom News!

• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch polls: The Three Stooges vs. Ed, Edd n Eddy and Battle of the Cartoon Goth Chicks.


• What are your thoughts on Daria as a stand-up comedian?


• Discuss the Israel-Hamas War.


• R.I.P., Burt Young.

Nothing to Lose But His Facial Hair

Mr. O'Neill has, as usual, gotten things as wrong as possible because he's gone and given himself a (fake) beard on No Beard Day. Fortunately, he can fix it quickly by cutting the strings holding the thing on, but I'm sure he'll find a way to screw that up as well. Hopefully Jake won't consider growing out his beard, not only because of the holiday but also because I can't see it as a good look for him.

Today is also National Ken Day, but I hope Ken Edwards keeps his distance. Frankly, I suspect by now he's required by law to keep his distance from schools, child care centers, etc. And that's as it should be. (shudder)

Putting that aside, I'm much more interested in National Chocolate Cupcake Day! Brittany should enjoy this one, too, because Kevin's already told her she's a great hostess cupcake. Then again, the episode "Monster" tells us that she's really partial to Ho-Hos. What an enigma!

Fanfic Update!

• Avatar: The Drama of Daria, by psychotol (part 1): "She entered the low level flight course from the wrong end."


• Kevin, Portrait of a QB, by wilddogjj (parts 1 and 2): "Kevin, Jim, Jamie, Chuck and Chris were sitting on the porch drinking beer while listening to the radio." (Part 2)


• Titanic - A True Story, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 12): "Now that all of the maids, butlers and the other assistants had been given the day off and the entrance had been closed and locked, Suite Seventeen of the Titanic looked like a very different place than it was supposed to be!"

Helen! Quick! Am I Allergic to Being a Jerk?

Eric just burst into Helen's office to remind her that it's Boss's Day and Marianne really should have bought him a card on Helen's behalf. Also, he has a ton of extra work to hand off to her and it would be great if she could work over the weekend as usual. One of these days he's going to turn up dead from choking on a cell phone and no one will be surprised.

Since today is also World Allergy Awareness Day, let's all take a moment to think about Quinn's pistachio dye allergy and how incredibly weird that is. Although it's not as weird as whatever mysterious force caused Daria's rash.

Fandom News!

• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Dr. Frasier Crane and Sideshow Bob.


• R.I.P, Phyllis Coates and Suzanne Somers.


• powertoolsforgirls is looking for a fanfic.

Brittany Would Probably Be Lethal on the Field

Looks like Kevin and Brittany have already started celebrating National Costume Swap Day, and I am impressed that Kevin actually has the legs to pull off that skirt. I'm also a little curious if, as they've done in the past, they're wearing each other's underwear. Jane seemed to think it was a frequent occurrence.

When Kevin's finished with his cheerleading moves, he could take a ride for National Motorcycle Ride Day! I hope he doesn't try to pop a wheelie, though. One injured leg was enough, and I don't think the Tommy Sherman Memorial Tree could take any more punishment.

Instead, maybe he could sit down for a nice game of chess for National Chess Day, since he'd considered the idea the last time he hurt himself. Given that he's fuzzy on the difference between chess and checkers, though, it might not be a good idea.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Days: A Sparkling World, by Adelina (part 1): "It feels crazy— moving all the way to the East Coast from Highland in Western Texas. It takes a while for a girl to get used to it all, but Daria's fine with not being used to it all."


• Daria Enrolls at Nevermore, by Meester_Lee (parts 10 and 11): "Waiting. Jane spent the next few minutes waiting for Daria to return from wherever she went off to." (Part 11)


• From Simp to Pimp, by wilddogjj (COMPLETE!): "Tom stood on a training mat in the gymnasium. Standing off to the side was pimp/relationship coach Sweet Daddy Jones."


• Quinn and the Spider, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (COMPLETE!): "'Good morning, Class,' Ms. Janet Barch said. 'The field trip is today. I hope you have given your permission slips to the office. This field trip will cover much information on Genetics and Entomology, so be sure to take notes. There will be a test next week. Oscorp is one of the leading companies in biotechnology today. Too bad it’s lead by a MAN!'"


• Shadows of a Timeless Song, by Dennis (part 19): "'Dammit! We were this close,' Daria said, holding her holding her ring finger and thumb a tiny space apart."


• Titanic - A True Story, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (parts 9 - 11): "It was the day after Titanic's first night into the journey, the soft April sun had risen above the distant horizon just an hour ago and Daria Morgendorffer, still a bit sleepy after having enjoyed one of the best breakfasts of her life, was happy to have a walk on the open decks after yet another visit to the library." (Part 10) (Part 11)

Morgendorffer Had a Farm, E-I-E-I-O!

Daria and Tom are close, but not quite, on Old Farmer's Day because while they certainly look the part they are clearly not old. Hey, do you suppose Trent ever achieved his dream job of becoming a farmer paid not to grow crops? He certainly had a shot as a musician played not to play music.

Someone tell Mr. DeMartino that it's Moment of Frustration Day--oh, wait, he's probably already beat us to it. Still, it might be worth reminding him that it's moment of frustration. Not lifetime.

Fandom News!

• Talk about unhealthy foods in the Junk Food Junkies thread.

Free Cake for All Drummers!

Quinn has done a...suspiciously...good job for National Cake Decorating Day, and I strongly suspect that someone else did the work. Not just because Quinn doesn't do any kind of work unless she has to, but I can't imagine her wanting to bake anything considering all of the fat and sugar involved. Ewwwwwww!

For any fans in a hugging mood, today is both National Hug a Drummer Day (preferably not while they're playing) and National Hug a Kevin Day (preferably not when Brittany can see you touching her Kevvy). If you know any drummers named Kevin, then let them know that today is their lucky day!

Fanfic Update!

• Daria Enrolls at Nevermore, by Meester_Lee (parts 8 and 9): "After dinner Daria returned upstairs to pick up her books. Jane was incredulous. 'You’re going to study?' she said incredulously." (Part 9)


• From Simp to Pimp, by wilddogjj (parts 1 and 2): "Tom Sloane and his wife, Sandi, were having a candle-lit dinner at the most romantic restaurant in town. The occasion was their wedding anniversary." (Part 2)

The Great Chigaco Fire?

I hope someone--most likely Jodie herself--fixes that sign for World Dyslexia Day, because while it's a cute visual gag it's not a joke to people who struggle with the actual learning disability. I know that some fanfics have suggested that Kevin may suffer from this or a similar disability, although I think his problems go much deeper than whether or not he can read well.

It was also on this day in 1871 that the Great Chicago Fire began. Legend has it that it was caused by a cow, but I wonder if anyone has considered that it might have been a clueless man being careless with paper towels while looking for a mop in the middle of the night? I mean, Jake was trying to get himself a glass of warm milk, which comes from cows, after all.

Fandom News!

• Fmoss3 now exists as a color!


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between McKenzie Brothers and Larry, Darryl and Darryl.


• Discuss the Jaswant Singh Chail treason case.

Why is a QB Like a Writing-desk?

Looks like Kevin is about to recite some utter nonsense for Mad Hatter Day, but that's nothing new for him. Just ask Mr. DeMartino. The outfit is a bit unusual, though, if only because he doesn't appear to have crammed his shoulder pads into it.

The Cheshire Cat might be interested to know that it's also World Smile Day, but please don't tell Daria. No one wants to see that creepy smile, even if she's bearing cookies.

Finally, Trent should fix himself a nice plate of spaghetti for National Noodle Day! It is his favorite, after all...or was that fettuccini bolognese? Either way, he'd better eat it before it oxidizes.

Fanfic Update!

• Daria: Cynic the Superheroine, by Meester_Lee (part 4): "Daria’s cellphone continued buzzing inside her handbag. It was probably Denise wondering where the hell she was, she thought."


• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (part 73): "The trees of Susquehannock Forest were still all lively and green the last time that Anna had seen her beloved Feli Lake, and yet this time, as she ventured to that place in her dreams once again, everything about the trees was just beautiful red, yellow and orange."


• Star Trek: Voyager: Horrors of the Delta Quadrant, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "'So, they do want Voyager to take them to a planet?' Janeway asked. 'Yes, any M class planet where there aren’t any Kazon,' Chakotay answered."

Who Doesn't Need a Seeing-Eye Jane Sometimes?

Jane is helping Daria to celebrate International Walk to School Day, although the two of them walk to school every day. Of course, Daria usually has her glasses with her, so usually she's able to handle this on her own.

I think the pets of the neighborhood are all relieved that she's walking instead of driving, because it would be a pretty awful World Animal Day if Daria accidentally ran over one of them during a driving lesson due to her impaired eyesight.

Jake, on the other hand, will be thrilled to know that today is National Golf Lover's Day, so he can indulge in his favorite pastime. Well, second favorite if you include drinking martinis. Hopefully he will be fully sober while hitting those golf balls!

Fandom News!

• Help decide the most disliked character on the show.


• Vote in the Celebrity Deathmatch poll between Elvira and Count Floyd.


• View and discuss a funny YouTube short with voice imitation.