I recently happened upon an article on msn.com titled “Things Only Kids Who Grew Up in the 1970s Can Appreciate.”

Now, although I’m an ’80s kid, I actually had heard of many of these marvels. Let’s take a trip down memory lane with these oldies but goodies, shall we?

•   The Pet Rock phenomenon

The pet rock is a perfect example of the quirky side of the ’70s. Marketed as the ideal low-maintenance pet, it even came with a manual on how to care for it. Surprisingly, millions were sold, capturing the playful spirit of the decade. It remains one of the most iconic and humorous fads of the ’70s. Call me kooky but I never understood the draw here.

•   The Brady Bunch

An iconic television sitcom that aired from 1969 to 1974, this gem depicted the life of a large blended family. The show follows Mike and Carol Brady, who merge their families into one, creating a household with three boys, three girls and their witty housekeeper, Alice. Known for its portrayal of wholesome family values and lighthearted approach to common family issues, the series has become a cultural touchstone. Despite its mixed critical reception during its original run, “The Brady Bunch” has remained a beloved part of American pop culture, influencing television and family portrayals for years to come.

Don’t diss the Bradys, yo. Especially Peter who, for whatever reason, was always my fave.

•   Mood rings and their magic

Mood rings were a popular accessory that supposedly reflected the wearer’s emotions through color changes. These rings were a mix of science and mystique, captivating users with their changing hues. Although the science wasn’t accurate, the concept was widely embraced. Mood rings added a touch of magic and mystery to everyday life. OK fine, I had one, whatever.

•   It was the era of the station wagon

The station wagon was the quintessential family car of the ’70s, ideal for road trips and daily commutes. Its spacious design and rear-facing seats made it a hit among families. These cars were a common sight on American roads, symbolizing the suburban lifestyle of the era. The station wagon represents a time when car travel was the main family bonding activity. Yeah, you better believe my family had one.

•   Lite-Brite

Lite-Brite was a game that allowed children to create illuminated art by placing colored pegs on a backlit screen. It was a simple yet innovative toy that encouraged creativity and artistic expression. The glowing creations brought joy and pride to young artists. Yep, we had this, too.

•   Schoolhouse Rock

“Schoolhouse Rock Live!” was an educational series that combined music with lessons in grammar, math, and history. Iconic songs like “Conjunction Junction” and “I’m Just a Bill” made learning engaging and fun. These tunes were catchy and educational, sticking with children long after the TV was turned off. “Schoolhouse Rock!” exemplified the inventive ways education was being reimagined.

For the record, I can still recite all the words to “Conjunction Junction.”

Kimerer is an ’80s kid with a ’70s heart. Contact her with your favorite things about the 1970s at pkimerer@zoominternet.net.