[TriciaR]

Getting clear and accurate directions. I was in Connecticut to see my nephew in a school production. I was on the campus of Quinnipiac University trying to find where the event center was. I asked a couple of students how I can get there. The directions where you drive forward and pop over there and pop here.

Thanks for sharing @Hazeleyes — I had to smile at the “pop over here, pop over there” directions! It’s true, there was a time when giving (and getting) clear, step-by-step directions was almost an art form. These days, it can feel like either you get vague hand gestures or you're left hoping GPS doesn't lead you into a cornfield. Did you ever used to keep a paper map or handwritten directions in the glove box — just in case?

 

[TriciaR]

When parents and teachers could discipline children. We grew up with great respect for them and others.

Thanks so much for sharing @Aquarius — that’s a perspective a lot of people can relate to. Discipline back then really did come with a strong foundation of respect, both for authority and for one another. It helped shape how kids grew into adults who understood boundaries and accountability. Do you think there’s a way to bring back that kind of respect in today’s world, even if discipline looks a little different now?

 

[TriciaR]

I am dating myself for sure, but, I wish the “smiley face pillows” would return.

I love that — thank you for sharing @Alfierules ! Smiley face pillows were such a fun, feel-good part of the décor back in the day. There was just something about that bright yellow grin that could lift your mood instantly. Did you have one growing up, or do you remember where you first saw them? I feel like they'd still bring a smile if they made a comeback today!

 

[TriciaR]

Respect for authority, whether it was parents, police, or school staff. That seems non existent now.

Really appreciate you sharing that @Mama2katz — respect for authority was such a strong part of growing up for many of us. Parents, teachers, and police were seen as guides, not just figures of control. It’s tough seeing that shift today. Do you think it’s something that can be rebuilt with the next generation, or does it feel too far gone?

 

[TriciaR]

A more Godly world.

Thank you for sharing @C.stanz — it’s a powerful reflection. A more Godly world, with kindness, compassion, and faith at the center, really did shape how people treated one another and lived their daily lives. Do you still see glimpses of that spirit around you today, or do you feel it’s something we’ve really drifted away from?

 

[TriciaR]

Being able to leave the house doors unlocked and no one would enter! Riding in the bed of pick up trucks...long summer vacations!! Lol

What a wonderful mix of memories — thank you for sharing @Diana Lynn ! There was such a sense of trust and freedom back then. Leaving doors unlocked, riding in the back of a pickup, and those endless-feeling summer holidays… it all just felt simpler and more carefree. Do you have a favorite summer memory from those days that still makes you smile when you think back on it?

 

[TriciaR]

I would love to have a local drive in too.

That’s a great one — thanks for sharing @Carol * ! Local drive-ins had such a fun, laid-back charm. Watching a movie under the stars with snacks in the car felt like a little adventure all on its own. Did you have a favorite film you remember seeing at the drive-in, or was it more about the experience than the movie itself?

 

[TriciaR]

I would like to see the "Blue Law" make a return. Stores and restaurants didn't open until afternoon. People respected Sundays. It was family time. We didn't mow on Sundays, children didn't have ballgame on Sunday.

That’s such a meaningful one — thank you for sharing @Carol * . The Blue Laws really did give Sundays a peaceful, respectful rhythm. It wasn’t just about religion; it was about community, quiet, and family time. Even the little things, like no mowing or no ballgames, helped make the day feel different and important. Do you think today’s pace of life could ever make room for something like that again — even just in spirit, if not in law?

 

[TriciaR]

Being able to travel and just enjoy neighborhood strolls and feel safe

That’s such a heartfelt reflection — thank you for sharing @Arkie98 . There was a real comfort in being able to simply walk through your neighborhood, take in the day, and feel completely at ease. That everyday sense of safety is something so many people miss. Are there still places near you now that give you even a hint of that peaceful feeling, or has it changed too much over the years?

 

[TriciaR]

i would like to see the drive in movies back and some of the good ole shows like carol burnett Red skeleton.

I love that mix of memories — thank you for sharing @Rubyshoes ! Drive-in movies had such a fun, relaxed vibe, and shows like The Carol Burnett Show and Red Skelton were pure joy — funny, wholesome, and full of heart. They really don’t make TV like that anymore! If one of those shows came back today, do you think it would still hold up, or would it need a modern twist?

 

[TriciaR]

I agree with every one else on all that was wished for…along with all the great music and movies that use to be in the “good ole’ days!!! loved the music!

That’s such a lovely way to put it — thank you for sharing! The music and movies from the good old days really had a special kind of magic, didn’t they? So much heart, talent, and timeless charm. It’s no wonder they still bring back such fond memories. Is there a favorite song or film that always takes you right back when you hear or see it?

 

[TriciaR]

Too many things come to mind. A&W restaurants are one. Get kids back on track with manners, respecting others, speak more kindly, being able to play outside till the streetlights come on, knowing how to play outside without having a screen taking up all of your attention and knowing how to play the old time games like jump rope, skipping to get somewhere, playing with marbles and flying a kite! I could prattle on for another HOUR…

What a beautiful stroll down memory lane — thank you for sharing all of that @Gayle B. ! You’ve painted such a vivid picture of a time when life felt a bit more grounded, playful, and kind. A&W root beer floats, streetlight curfews, marbles, kites — it all sounds like something out of a storybook now! If you could bring just one of those things back for today’s kids to experience, which one would you choose first?

 

[TriciaR]

Respect!

Such a powerful answer — thank you for sharing @Gnomeo . Respect truly was the backbone of how people interacted, whether at home, in school, or out in the community. It shaped everything. Do you think we can still nurture that kind of respect in today’s world, or has the culture shifted too far?

 

[TriciaR]

I miss Sunday dinners with family and just visiting on Sundays. I wish businesses were still closed Sundays.

That’s such a lovely memory — thank you for sharing @Gibb . Sunday dinners and simply visiting with family made the day feel so special, like a true pause from the busy world. When businesses were closed, it really helped everyone slow down and connect. Do you ever try to keep that tradition going now, even in a small way?

 

[TriciaR]

Respect for each other!

That really says it all — thank you for sharing @stormy 2222 . Respect for each other was such a strong part of everyday life, and it made even simple interactions feel meaningful and kind. Have you noticed any places or moments lately where that kind of mutual respect still shines through?

 

[Hazeleyes]

My first pick would be my Chevrolet impala
Next the Pontiac Ventura
A not so well built car but great on gas mileage was my Chevrolet GEO Metro (it was a stick shift) had to get rid of it due to injury. Either go to chiropractor everyday or get an automatic vehicle.

 

[Hazeleyes]

Thanks for sharing @Hazeleyes — I had to smile at the “pop over here, pop over there” directions! It’s true, there was a time when giving (and getting) clear, step-by-step directions was almost an art form. These days, it can feel like either you get vague hand gestures or you're left hoping GPS doesn't lead you into a cornfield. Did you ever used to keep a paper map or handwritten directions in the glove box — just in case?

Yes I had maps in my car and paper directions as well. Had trip tick from AAA as well. Maps for me were hard as I would have to turn the map to the direction we were driving in to get to next point. But as I told people it does not matter how I hold the map as long as we get from point a to point b. I use GPS which not always work well either.