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A good sign should be eye-catching, easy to understand, and informative. But this post is about a different kind of sign.

You see, some signs are so weirdly specific and hilarious that they make people, intentionally or not, wonder about the whys and whats. They make your imagination run errands and seem to tell us a whole lot more than they’re actually supposed to be saying. How is that possible, you ask? Pull your seat closer.

Below we wrapped up some of the most entertaining signs from all walks of life, spotted by passersby who suddenly had more questions than they had answers. Upvote your favorite ones as you scroll down below and be sure to check out more funny signs that very likely have stories behind them in our previous feature.

#1

The Sign Is The Story

The Sign Is The Story

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#3

Tent Poles

Tent Poles

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Potty pagan panda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wonder how many times the tent came crashing down on a disappointed father hmm?

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“Signs that cause confusion often result from poor design choices or messaging that is too complex or open to interpretation,” Laura Vanagaite, an international freelance graphic designer who specializes in branding and social media content creation, told Bored Panda in an interview via email.

As an example, she added, these are signs with ambiguous or conflicting messages that can create confusion for those who see them.

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Moreover, confusion may also arise not only from the sign itself but rather from its placement. “Signs that are poorly placed or not visible can fail to communicate their message effectively,” Laura said.

This is because the placement and the context of a sign can have a significant impact on its meaning, Laura argues. “For example, a stop sign placed at an intersection can convey a clear message of traffic control, but the same sign placed in a parking lot may not have the same intended meaning.”

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#9

Saw This In A Restroom Today And Thought That It Belonged Here

Saw This In A Restroom Today And Thought That It Belonged Here

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“Similarly,” Laura continued, “a sign with a bold font and bright colors placed on a city street may communicate urgency or danger, while the same sign in a more relaxed setting may not have the same effect.”

Essentially, the context in which a sign is placed can create associations with the surrounding environment and influence how people perceive it. “Therefore, it is crucial to consider the placement and context of a sign to effectively communicate its message,” Laura told us.

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#10

I’m About To Spray My New Kitchen Cabinets

I’m About To Spray My New Kitchen Cabinets

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#12

Interesting

Interesting

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Paul C.
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I told my bloody Satnav I was happy to use the Toll paying bit of the M6 in England. 3/4 of the way along, it took me off the Motorway for half a mile then back on through the Toll Booth, meaning I had to pay twice! My own fault I know, it tells you don't just follow the instructions without thought.

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The sign may also be confusing if it’s put at the wrong time and at the wrong place. “A sign that is not relevant to its location or its audience can be ineffective or even counterproductive,” Laura warns. “For example, a sign advertising winter clothing during the summer months or in a location where it seldom gets cold may not resonate with its audience.”

#13

Found In My High School. I Would Not Like To Know What Necessitated This

Found In My High School. I Would Not Like To Know What Necessitated This

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#14

How Many Times I Wonder?

How Many Times I Wonder?

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#15

Posted Inside The Lyft I Am Riding In. It Has Never Crossed My Mind That This Could Be A Bad Question, So I Appreciate The Heads Up!

Posted Inside The Lyft I Am Riding In. It Has Never Crossed My Mind That This Could Be A Bad Question, So I Appreciate The Heads Up!

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Thomas Bentley
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

insted ask "why don't you like the "where are you from" conversation"

2x4b523p
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate this question. I have been living in England for 20 years. Most people asking this question just want to let me know they can tell I am a foreigner. I will always have an accent. There are some nice people and we will talk about my home country for a bit but those are rare.

Cthulhu Kitty
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm with you. Sometimes it's being bring friendly, but majority of the time it's people pointing out that you are "other" which is not appreciated. Yes, I'm not white or blond, and Yes I was born here. Shocking

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censorshipsucks
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Interesting, because my rideshare drivers whilst usually local do not seem to mind if I ask this, as sometimes you can tell they aren't local. I've had a few zimbabweans, for example. They're usually quite happy to talk about it. Maybe this guy was a refugee or got abused and told to "Go back" or something?

Liz
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It depends on how you ask or if you ask outright. If we’re both in chatty moods, I usually talk about the city and their life and let them tell me where they’re from if they’re foreign and they want to. And then it sparks a fun conversation, especially because I’ve traveled a lot and lived abroad —and so have many members of my family— and often have visited or lived in their home country. Edit for spelling

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Lara M
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate that question too. I'm from Russia and I didn't have a good time there. Being an ethnic minority in Russia sucks and I'm glad my family and I were able to get out. I hate that country and what it did to me and my ancestors. I don't want to make polite chitchat about your vacation in Moscow twenty years ago.

thepinkrobot
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a person of color, I find this question to be a veiled racism even if the person doesn't intend it to be.

XenoMurph
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tell me about your interesting life that drew you to foreign shores

Barbara Kelly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are more original and considerate questions , such as "How long have you been a Lyft driver?" or "Have you driven any unusual customers?"

Bunny
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live in NYC and don't speak to any of them ever except to say "hello" at the beginning and and "thanks" at the end.

Christof Irran
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When they ask me "You have an accent; where are you from?" I tell them "Fox Island." The majority can't figure out from this answer that my national origin is not something I want to discuss and ask "Yeah, but before that?" "Seattle."

Michael Largey
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It doesn't matter if I know where you're from. What matters much more is that you know where I'm going.

Marcellus II
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I came from nothing and will go back to nothing. So what have I lost? Nothing! All together now: ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRI-I-IGHT SIDE OF LIFE *whistles*

Blue Mar
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally understand that, used to work in cafe in UK and had this question X times per day. Depending on my mood I started give different answers like : I'm from (UK CITY) client:...but your accent? Me:Ooo,I have accent?Didn't know that! Yes, passive aggressive but why should I answer? Its not your business. I'm here to make your coffee,not to feed your prejudices. Sometimes I don't mind tell ppl where I'm from,but usually it was not friendly question. And yes, after while you got sick of it. Its like having the same conversation X times per day with different people.

Jared Robinson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

why? This immediately makes me want to ask where you are from, cause now I KNOW there's a story there.

Lara M
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The story probably goes something like "I was continuously mistreated and discriminated against in my country of origin and barely escaped with my life. I do not want to make superficial conversation about how you loved your vacation there."

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Bill Marsano
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That question is often meant and/or interpreted as "You're a foreigner. You don't belong here."

Kalleanon
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I relate to this - I'm not really "from" anywhere. I mean, I know where I was born but I only lived there for 3 weeks, the next place was 3 months then I moved continent. After nearly 2 years I moved continent again. After another 2 years, again. And again. I've lived where I am for about a quarter of my life - when people ask where I'm from it's basically here (which was for me a foreign country until I moved here) or everywhere or nowhere.

Lady Miss Pie
Community Member
Premium
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I usually just chat with them about their day and we have a nice organic conversation and they mention where they’re from on their own. My Uber & Lyft rating are 5 stars, evidently lol

Lesley Shore
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a talker, come from small town in Indiana and truly love people. I just tell people that I love their accent and then they are open to share or not.

Binxyminxem
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Peter Kay wouldn't ask that. "Been busy? ... What time you on till?" 😄

Imjust jim
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dear Driver, i am here for ride not a chat. Ten and two please and thanks.

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“Similarly, a sign promoting a product or service that is not available in a particular location can create confusion and frustration for those who see it. It's important to consider the appropriateness of a sign's placement and messaging to ensure that it is effective and useful to its intended audience,” Laura explained.

When creating a sign, Laura argues, it's crucial to consider the user experience. “As a sign designer, you need to take into account the needs and expectations of the intended audience.”

#16

I Work In An Industry Where Rude Customers Are A Constant. Today We Posted This Sign. The Team Loves It

I Work In An Industry Where Rude Customers Are A Constant. Today We Posted This Sign. The Team Loves It

TheFastbat Report

#18

1. I Have No Idea Where This Is, And 2. I Want To Be There Immediately

1. I Have No Idea Where This Is, And 2. I Want To Be There Immediately

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Serial pacifist
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The raccoon chooses its special person. Dave, he just doesn't like you, stop coercing him.

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According to a graphic designer, a well-designed sign should possess these key features: “have clear and concise messaging, be visually appealing and easy to read, and be placed in a location where it can be easily seen and understood.”

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“Additionally, it should consider the audience's needs and expectations to effectively communicate its message,” Laura concluded.

#19

My Gym Is Trying To Catch A Phantom Pisser

My Gym Is Trying To Catch A Phantom Pisser

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Trillian
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Better yet, block the door from the outside and let him steam in his own pee

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#23

Don’t Touch The Mug

Don’t Touch The Mug

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#25

Who Has Pet Bears

Who Has Pet Bears

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Will Cable
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Someone asked if they could bring a 'Pooh Bear'....sadly reception had the wrong idea and the mess took ages to clear up.

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#27

Uhhhh

Uhhhh

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Alexia
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I unintentionally scared security people at the airport. I had my laptop charger and a candy box (which I had left in the backpack when I got through security). The guy watching the screen froze, his face turned white and he moved back and forth the band with my backpack. Then he turned to me and asked me what I had in the backpack. "Nothing important, some candies, my laptop charger, an agenda..." He explained me that it looked like an explosive device. It was nice to see his face regaining the normal colors :)

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#29

I’m Pretty Sure This Is Like A Fish Tank Or Smth… 💀 I Just Don’t Understand Why A Sign Would Be Needed, Have Ppl Been Stirring This Fish Tank For Fun?

I’m Pretty Sure This Is Like A Fish Tank Or Smth… 💀 I Just Don’t Understand Why A Sign Would Be Needed, Have Ppl Been Stirring This Fish Tank For Fun?

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sinead
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aw. Poor little guy. He's so cute. No one had better stir that fish tank!!! I'm serious.

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#30

There's A Story Behind Every Sign Like This

There's A Story Behind Every Sign Like This

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#31

A Great Sign I Found At Auckland Zoo

A Great Sign I Found At Auckland Zoo

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#32

When They Park Like S**t

When They Park Like S**t

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#34

Something Funny I Saw Tonight Near My House

Something Funny I Saw Tonight Near My House

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#38

Funny, But I Can't Vouch For Its Authenticity

Funny, But I Can't Vouch For Its Authenticity

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Michael Largey
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

But I thought committing belligerent and embarrassing actions was the whole point of putting Fox News on the air.

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#41

This Ride Only Stops In An Emergency

This Ride Only Stops In An Emergency

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#42

What Made Them Have To Put This Sign Up?

What Made Them Have To Put This Sign Up?

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#47

Blessed

Blessed

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mhoulden
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know Cornholme. It's a tiny place in West Yorkshire on the road between Todmorden and Burnley. Hebden Bridge is a bit down the road from Tod and is a major centre for alternative lifestyles and same sex relationships. Historically Burnley was home to the Pendle Witches. I think Cornholme sees itself as a bit of an enclave.

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#50

Going To Start Parking Here Every Day

Going To Start Parking Here Every Day

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#53

Use Condoms And No Loud Moaning After 9pm

Use Condoms And No Loud Moaning After 9pm

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#54

Oh God

Oh God

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#56

What The Hell Happened Here

What The Hell Happened Here

Dr_Lupe Report

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Zia Barrett
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This was inspired by an actual incident, here: https://eu.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/nation-world/2016/08/22/weird-florida-throwback-psychedelic-mushrooms/7210201007/

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#57

Sounds Like A Fun Campus

Sounds Like A Fun Campus

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RAM31280
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I didn't even think to do that before reading this sign, I would out of spite

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#59

From Someone At My University

From Someone At My University

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#61

Why Is "Meat Service" Quotes? It Makes It Worse

Why Is "Meat Service" Quotes? It Makes It Worse

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oktopus
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And let's be honest, who amongst us has never rung the bell for "meat service"?

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#63

Found At A Local Oddities Shop Called Dysfunctional Grace In Tampa

Found At A Local Oddities Shop Called Dysfunctional Grace In Tampa

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#65

I Eat Pizza With The Box Closed, Actually

I Eat Pizza With The Box Closed, Actually

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#66

Kids? What Kids?

Kids? What Kids?

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RedBadgerCan'tSwim
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I worked at a farm store and every ride on and zero turn mower came with these keychains.

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#70

Is The Enforcement To Prevent The Bridge From Sneaking Up Behind You?

Is The Enforcement To Prevent The Bridge From Sneaking Up Behind You?

ItinerantCoconut Report

#72

They're Not All Medical Heroes

They're Not All Medical Heroes

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#73

Now Why Did This Sign Need Changing

Now Why Did This Sign Need Changing

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#74

I Work With A Bunch Of Savages, Apparently

I Work With A Bunch Of Savages, Apparently

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Ephemeral Mochi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've seen bits of instant ramen noodles in a bathroom sink at my school. 🤦🏻‍♀

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#76

Any Idea What This Bathroom Sign Is Trying To Say?

Any Idea What This Bathroom Sign Is Trying To Say?

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#77

I Feel Bad For The Soul That Made This Sign Necessary

I Feel Bad For The Soul That Made This Sign Necessary

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Purple Sprinkles
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is common, people hang clothes from the sprinkler and break it. I've seen this sign a lot.

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#78

From A Friend Of Mine. He Saw This At One Of Our Local Dollar Generals

From A Friend Of Mine. He Saw This At One Of Our Local Dollar Generals

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Zia Barrett
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anti-diarrhoea medicine is a high theft item, something about the active ingredients and drug addiction that I...have clearly partially forgotten =.= It gets nicked a lot.

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#80

A Sign With A Story I Cannot Explain

A Sign With A Story I Cannot Explain

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Brenda
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hobbyists sometimes substitute an 0 (#) for O (letter). Numbers are usually cheaper

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#84

I Want To Know What Caused This

I Want To Know What Caused This

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Barbara Kelly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is probably a truck carrying dead animals , animal rendering products, or spoiled food.

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#85

As Opposed To What?

As Opposed To What?

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#86

I’ve Never Seen A Hotel Pool Sign So Blunt Before

I’ve Never Seen A Hotel Pool Sign So Blunt Before

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oktopus
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

But what if you couldn't get medication because it was behind the counter? (See #78).

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#87

Every Piece Of Clothing At A Baby Store. Well Damn

Every Piece Of Clothing At A Baby Store. Well Damn

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Toni Kay
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This was very common on kids pjs when my kids were younger, always looked exactly the same. I would assume they are still in use now.

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#88

Volleyball At 4pm?? Get Outta Here!

Volleyball At 4pm?? Get Outta Here!

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#89

Of All The Things To Ban, Why Toothpicks?

Of All The Things To Ban, Why Toothpicks?

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#90

Please

Please

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