Bringing Home the Bacon

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

Jacks Are Wild

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

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

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

Hitting Below the Designer Belt

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

"X" Marks the Holiday!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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

Fa La LA La La!

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

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

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

Fandom News!

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

Stacy in a Bottle

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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


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

A Cynic in Possession of a Good Fortune

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

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

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

Fandom News!

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


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


• R.I.P., Rob Reiner.

Have a Wonderful Festival of Lights!

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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

Is the Price Right?

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

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

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

Fandom News!

• The 2025 Daria Fanfiction list has been posted.


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

Have a Squeaky Holiday!

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

One...Two...Tree!

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

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

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

They Are Also Minors Who Are Mining!

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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

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

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

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

Let's Not Even Talk About Those Socks

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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


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

Being a Swiftie Before It Was Cool

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

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

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

Fandom News!

• Shady Doorags reviews "Lane Miserables" in a new video.


• What was the first movie you ever watched in theaters?

Mr. Potato'Neill

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

Is the Cake a Lie?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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

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

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

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

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

Smoke on the (Toilet) Water

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

Supernatural Phenomena is Really Shiny!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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

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

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

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

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

Jane: Not if you're diabetic.

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

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

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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


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


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

Daria Muppetdorffer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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

She Shoots, She Scores!

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

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

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

Fandom News!

• Please alert the Daria Refuge Facebook page mods/admins if your post was sent to spam.

Shall We Eat Some UNAUTHORIZED Chocolate?

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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

Check Out That Beautiful En Pointe!

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

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

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

Trick or Treat!

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

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

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

Fanfic Update!

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


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


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


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

She's ALIVE!

Daria and Jane are all dressed up and ready for National Frankenstein Day, and they've even given us a bonus Igor as well! If any pedants get huffy about Jane technically being Frankenstein's monster rather than Frankenstein himself, then just remind them that the real Frankenstein is the friends we made along the way!

I would suggest that everyone celebrate National Internet Day, but I suppose you already are. If not, then how the heck are you even reading this right now?

In honor of National Cat Day, I hope that Jake finally gets that pet cat that he's always wanted, in spite of his father's attitude. Unless, of course, his unfortunate run-in with Mr. Whiskers put him off the feline critters entirely.

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., June Lockhart.


• janendaria4life posted a new Iron Chef: Daria's Stolen Notebook.

But I Thought Keg Queen Was Quinn's Job!

Brittany is pleased to serve everyone a cold one in honor of American Beer Day, but I hope Kevin limits himself to just one. Partly because I'm sure his judgment is even worse when he's been drinking but also because if he starts singing the song about beers on the wall then I don't think he'll be able to count backward much further than that.

Daria and her family, meanwhile, could celebrate National Tell a Story Day by sharing spooky stories with each other. By now I'm sure Daria and Quinn are old enough to hear the uncensored version of Helen's vampire story, but I don't think anyone wants to hear round two of Daria's cannibal tale.

On this day in 1997, Daria made an appearance in Fortune, along with several of her fellow cartoon characters. True to form, Daria seems to have been the only one who brought a book.

Fanfic Update!

• And so what? We have free will anyway, by natalieee_139 (part 14): "'I actually kind of knew what was going on with Tom— and the reason why he was following Janey too.' Trent confessed, nervously rubbing the back of his neck."


• Scares the Beef, by wilddogjj (parts 2 and 3): "Quinn, Jim and the triplets were sitting in the living room watching TV. On the screen was Stacy and her co-anchor. The co-anchor was finishing his report." (Part 3)


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 3): "However, Dafoanairi found a panel that had been displaced and found the power switch beneath it. The powerless pterodactyl was then placed on a table as Ninja Talon and Dafoanairi both looked for the controller."

It's Not Over Until the Popular Lady Sings!

Quinn's really nailing that high note for World Opera Day, but the real question is whether or not she's also going to make a dainty garland for her head and sing. Just be sure you don't miss the performance of Madame Butterfly being held in the PayDay automotive department!

Jane will be pleased to know that today is also both International Artist Day and National Fine Art Appreciation Day, so she can celebrate both herself and her artwork! Unless she's suffering from burnout and/or wrist cramping again, in which case she should celebrate a well-deserved break instead.

For those in fandom who are less sophisticated, there's always National Greasy Foods Day, so you could just enjoy some junk food. However, let's hope that Quinn doesn't take a break from singing to re-share her "Greasy Fry" poem.

Now They're Mental in the Morning!

Daria and Jane look way too cheerful for TV Talk Show Host Day, especially considering it's morning and neither of them was ever shown to be morning people. At all. I'm guessing that this situation was caused by either massive amounts of caffeine or alien body snatchers. Could they possibly be atomic Communists from Mars?!

On this day in 2001, the first line of iPods made their debut. Years ago, S-C created images of Daria characters with iPods as well as a dPod spoof ad.

In other fanart news, the Fashion Club (minus Quinn) made a cameo appearance in the webcomic "Mall Monkeys." I don't know where Quinn was at the time, but she was probably appearing in a much more popular (or so she'd claim) comic.

Fanfic Update!

• Duplicity, by Big_Crabtree (COMPLETE!): "Watching Brittany had become her new favourite form of entertainment while at school. It was amusing to watch her feign stupidity for all to see."


• Mysteries of Lawndale 03: Night of the Coffee House, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 10): "'So, you know who it is, but will only reveal it tomorrow night,' Jane said as she sipped a coffee in the kitchen. 'That’s right,' Daria said."

He'd Better Avoid Ms. Barch's Class on Dissection Day

Looks like Kevin has taken American Frog Day to the extreme, perhaps as a way to improve his agility on the football field. He's going to be very disappointed with the corresponding decrease in strength, though.

It's going to take a lot more than strength to lift a government building, which was actually attempted--telepathically--on this day in 1967 during the March on the Pentagon. Helen, Jake, and their commune friends were part of the attempt, which failed miserably and led to Jake breaking his foot. Stupid five-sided building.

Finally, on this day in 1997 the first Daria VHS tape, creatively named "Daria," was released. It contained "Esteemsters," "The Invitation," "College Bored," and the "Sealed with a Kick" pilot, without which we'd never have seen Daria's super-creepy grin. So...yay?

Fandom News!

• R.I.P., Ace Freley.

"Oh rapture, oh ecstasy--another scintillating computer game."

Retro gamers, rejoice! Today is the 25th anniversary of the Daria's Inferno computer game! It was snarky, difficult to work with, and sometimes downright infuriating...just like Daria herself. Just don't talk about the steam pipes. I still have nightmares.

If you're interested in observing Evaluate Your Life Day, you could do worse than taking some advice from Jake: "You change your name, move to another state, get some ID. It's not too late to start over, Daria, it's not too late! You're still a young man! You don't have to live with your mistakes! Get out while you can!"

On second thought, that's pretty bad advice. Maybe just drink some water and take a walk outside instead.

You could also try forming new bonds with people you don't know in honor of National New Friends Day, but don't expect Daria to participate. She lucked out with Jane, but I can't imagine she'd expect lightning to strike twice.

Fanfic Update!

• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 2): "Quinn entered the office to find the principal busy with paperwork. 'Ms. Morgendorffer?' she asked."

Can He Jump Over the Big Strawberry?

Mack's preparing to do an extra-dangerous stunt in honor of the anniversary of Evel Knievel's birth on this day in 1938. Of all of the guys at Lawndale High, Mack is the one I would least expect to pull this kind of thing, but I guess he'd do just about anything to get Jodie's attention.

Someone should tell Jake that it's National Pasta Day, because pasta seems like the one thing he seemed to be able to cook well--penne a la pesto, fettuccini Bolognese, and so forth. Of course, technically speaking frozen lasagna would also qualify, but the Morgendorffers have got to be sick of that by now.

Someone should not tell Quinn that it's Wear Something Gaudy Day, though, because the very idea of wearing something unattractive would probably give her nightmares for a week. I suppose it might be a good excuse to throw another Fashion Don'ts Costume Gala!

Fandom News!

• Talk about your experiences with AI.

This Little Light of Mine and His and Yours and Hers and Theirs....

It seems that everyone in Lawndale is celebrating Shine a Light Night, although the point of the holiday is helping the homeless rather than shining literal lights. Also, this isn't going to help Daria's paranoia issues at all.

Daria and her classmates can at least enjoy World Students' Day by going to school, but I think Daria would take exception to my use of the words "enjoy" and "school" in the same sentence. I doubt that Mr. DeMartino will be feeling very celebratory about this one, either, because students are both the focus and worst part of his job.

If the more infuriating students bug the man too much, then at least he can take comfort in knowing that he's observing National Grouch Day. Daria observes this one most days, or at least on the days where she's forced to interact with other people.

Fanfic Update!

• Mysteries of Aurora, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 20): "'One of the Architecture sections,' Alexia said. 'That's where the blueprints of the University would be stored.'"


• Scares the Beef, by wilddogjj (part 1): "The Thompsons were seated at a table in a cowboy themed steakhouse called Wrangler's. It was the same place where Timmy Carbone had won a steak eating contest two years ago."

"Are you suuuuuuure?"

Jane looks awfully doubtful about...something...but that's fine because it's International Skeptics Day and she can be as skeptical as she wants. Usually Daria is the one with the doubting attitude, but I imagine Jane picked up a few tricks from her during their years of friendship.

Perhaps she's just failing to be trusting, which would also be appropriate for International Day for Failure. I hope Mr. O'Neill doesn't get it into his head to retry the old "failing on purpose" class assignment because I don't think anyone could handle going through that again...least of all Mr. O'Neill.

Today we celebrate a maybe-anniversary for Daria fandom in that the earliest saved copy of the Paperpusher's Message Board can be found on this day in 1999, so this could be the PPMB's 26th birthday. There's no way of telling for sure, though, so take that with a healthy dose of skepticism!

Fandom News!

• Share stories of celebrities going through situations straight out of Daria.


• If you had been a writer for Daria back in the day, what would you have done?


• Watch and discuss the video "Jane Lane's Sick, Sad World."

Nice Legs, Trent!

Trent looks less than thrilled about National Costume Swap Day, but then again maybe he's borrowing Daria's attitude along with her wardrobe. I'm a little curious about what Daria would look like in Trent's clothes, but I suspect the sight would send Jane's teasing into overdrive.

Meanwhile, I suppose Kevin and Brittany are celebrating National Motorcycle Ride Day, but I hope Kevin doesn't try to pop a wheelie this time. Brittany was freaked out enough as it was about the cricket; suffering a massive injury would probably also spoil her day.

I sure hope that Jodie gets to enjoy Black Girl Day Off, if not the whole day then at least for a couple of hours or so. It might require either an act of God or faking her own death, and I'm not sure if either is likely to work on the Landons.

Fanfic Update!

• Convergence on Lawndale, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 14): "'There it is,' the Doctor said as he lead the others into the Morgendorffers backyard from the laneway. 'That blue box?' Kim asked. 'Yes,' the Doctor answered as he unlocked the ship."


• Duplicity, by Big_Crabtree (COMPLETE!): "Daria watched the ongoing party with disdain. It was bad enough that she had deluded herself into coming here. It was even worse that she ended up losing her only friend among the crowd."


• Her Last Words, by Sheila Wisz Ellayn (COMPLETE!): "Layndale was starting to thaw out now that it was already March the Twentiseventh."


• Spider Quinn 19 Making the News Amidst the Storms, by cfardell_Brenorenz29 (part 1): "It was a busy evening at the Historia. Quinn Morgendorffer was busy as she delivered drinks and meals to various customers."