Why is my grandmother on Hawaii Five-O?

My husband and I are somewhat "retrophiles". We love vintage cars (don't own any) and music from the 50s and 60s (own a lot). We also live in a 1952 brick ranch house and couldn't love it more. It's pretty perfect for the two of us and our 3 dogs.

Lately, we've gotten into watching old episodes of "Hawaii Five-0". This has been a great trip down memory lane. Honolulu looks so beautiful, the clothes the women wear are a total trip - I can't get enough of all the zig-zaggety bright colored patterns on dresses and halter tops. Plus, it's always fun to spot the young famous actor before they were in their own television show. Just the other day we saw various episodes with John Ritter (R.I.P.), Susan Dey, Donna Mills, and Richard Hatch.

I also have to mention Jack Lord as Steve McGarett. He is just wonderful. McGarett loves to preach to just about everyone on what is right and what is wrong in today's world - well 1970's world. He's a bit overboard, but, I don't think there is anyone like him on today's television. And, then there is Danno. Who didn't have a crush on that cutie?

Last night we were watching an episode that involved kidnapping and bomb threats when a minor supporting character, played by an elderly woman, stepped out of a car. She had those great cat-eye glasses with rhinestones and she was wearing this dress with flowers (not a muumuu) but one of those dresses that don't have much shape, with the little round collar (maybe it's called a day dress?). I swear, it nearly brought tears to my eyes because it reminded me so much of the dresses that my grandmother wore. In just that instant, memories flooded my mind of my grandmother and how much I miss her. She passed away 23 years ago, yet, this television show brought her right smack into my living room. It was unexpected and kind of through me for a loop.

I suppose that is the appeal of having items from the past surround you, it connects you to people you loved, places you've been or wished you'd been and perhaps even a time when life seemed to be wonderful. But, I have to remember that life is good now and I'm glad we've got pictures, television shows, books and even this here internet that can connect you to your memories at any time. I wonder, do any of you have items from the past that bring you that certain joy?

I don't know if we will catch an episode of Hawaii Five-O tonight or not, my husband and I need to finish decorating our wood paneled den and convert it into the Jack Lord Lounge. Aloha!