Last night, millions of viewers bid farewell to one of television's most beloved characters of all time: Liz Lemon. For so many of us awkward, nerdy, trying-to-make-it-in-this-crazy-world gals, she was an icon. For me specifically, a struggling writer who posts here with the intent to tickle your Mommy Funnybone -- and whose favorite "dress up" outfit once consisted of a chunky red turtleneck sweater, black leather pants from Old Navy (I know, I know), white gym socks and red New Balance sneakers -- the Other Liz was a hero.
Fade out on wistful nostalgia. Cut to poignant parenting moment.
Earlier in the day, during a painfully unsuccessful attempt to teach my 15-month-old to color with crayons, something unexpected happened. Unprompted, she picked up the ripped, drool-soaked piece of yellow construction paper and lifted it up to veil her eyes.
She was instigating Peek-a-Boo. She was doing her first comedy bit -- and by the grin on her face, she thought she was killing it.
"Well, look at that," I said to her. "You're a regular George Carlin." Truth be told, I personally never found George Carlin that funny. But, let's be honest: on a scale of 1 to Fey, Peek-a-Boo registers at a negative Leno. Even so, I played along with her routine until the violent Hulk-style arching of her back against the high chair's harness suggested she'd had enough. "And... scene!" I believe the saying goes.
I'd often wondered if my daughter would have a sense of humor, and it seems I got my answer. So peace out, Liz Lemon. Yesterday, the world met its brand new funny girl... and she's my hero.
Read more from Liz Kozak at poseypieproductions.com.
