Good Old Days

Stories & photos contributed by readers. Launched in 1964, Good Old Days is the original nostalgia magazine, featuring reader-provided stories and recollections from days gone by. It continues to enjoy a wide audience.

Good Old Days is an Annie's publication. Annie's products -- including magazines, books, kits and supplies, online classes and TV programming -- are targeted to home and family interests, including crafts, nostalgia and home décor. It is part of the third-generation Muselman family business based in Berne, Ind., near Fort Wayne. The business began in 1925 with the founding of Economy Printing Concern. EP Graphics, as it is known today, is still owned by the Muselman family.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Good Old Days

FROM the MAILBOX

Same Old Ornaments • She complained then, but now she cherishes those family heirlooms.

Escape to Nature in a Factory Town • They enjoyed an outdoor retreat in the shadow of a factory.

Going Home • Getting there was half the battle—and worth it all.

Scrooge for Christmas • The script was different but the message was the same: “God bless us, every one.”

My Mother’s Voice • Years later, he finally heard their message of love.

The Hole • Sometimes it was a sledding hill, sometimes a skating rink, and sometimes a fort to protect.

REWIND

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Tradition Continues • Whether bitter or tart, some family customs are worth the effort.

Troop Train • They were happy to run errands in return for souvenirs.

Painted Pigtails, Fake Ponies and the Punishment Chair • Life was full of adventures and delights—and the occasional “course correction.

GOOD OLD DAYS POETRY

Ten Lukers and Two Guitars • A visit from Santa and the stork made for a special and exciting Christmas

Crazy for Cranberries • A holiday staple for most tables takes on several new looks.

Christmas in the 1940s • Memories of their community, for her, were the “peace on earth” that made her feel warm inside.

Farewell, Old Faithful • “She” was part of their family, and when it was time to say goodbye, there were tears.

Belsnickel • An uninvited character kept children well-behaved, especially at Christmastime.

Growing Up in the Holler • He was expecting a basketball court and swimming pool but found paradise instead.

Richard Diamond, Private Detective • Not your typical private eye, Diamond was anything but “in the rough.”

BITS & PIECES

Waiting for the Dream • Lots of love and simple joys kept them going until their daddy could come home.

In This Issue

We Gather Together • Her story brought a new meaning to Thanksgiving.

Share Your Stories and Photos With Good Old Days Readers!

Picture THIS

Becoming a Man at Christmas • His greatest gift was a lesson in responsibility.

Favorite Christmas Songs

Backyard Chef • She cooked up epicurean delights from the best soil in the world!

Love in the Time of War • Fake husband, fake baby, fake home—what could possibly go wrong

Ranch Living in Tubac • The Garretts were known for their generous hospitality and the only two-story home around.

Army Barracks • A short ride with their fathers covered a lot of time from the past.

No Space on Santa’s Sleigh • His early delivery policy was fine with her.

Christmas Coal, 78-rpm Records and Corkin’ Hats • These three things were Christmas essentials in their house.

Life on 54th Street • With 22 kids living on their street, they never had to look far for playmates.

My Roots’ Home • For their family, time stood still.

Q&A: ON YOUR MIND