When Did Common Sense Exist?

          Lately Richard and I have been watching “Henry Winkler’s Hazardous History” from the history channel.  The first episode that we watched focused on Roller Coasters and 1960’s introduction to what sold as toys.

          When I watched the documented part focused on roller coasters, I shook my head.  I LOVED roller coasters when I was younger.  Why?  The sensory part of my brain was obviously not working then.  Riding roller coasters was fun.  I, of course, did not foresee any dangers.

          Now I am appalled at the very thought of those who stand in line for the thrilling buzz of headaches and dizziness.  But back then I thought it was a hoot to make myself dizzy.  I no longer enjoy that disjointed sensation.

          As for the “toys”.  I remember all of them being advertised but fortunately was never drawn to them nor knew anybody who had any of them.  I did have a Suzie Homemaker – equivalent of the easy bake oven.  I suppose it had its “easy” perks, but boy, was it incredibly time consuming.  But it was only mentioned – the hazard was the counterpart made for boys – the “creepy crawly” or something like that. 

          It came with metal plates that one could fill with some kind of goop that would give you a rubberized bug, reptile, or whatever.  The “ovens” were extremely hot – EXTREMELY.  Why would a parent think giving that to a child was okay? Ebay has vintage molds similar to the one sold in the 60's - the "oven" itself is illegal to sell.

          I have been shocked by some of the things that have been mentioned in various documents.  It has been educational, a bit humorous and a lot of scary.  Check it out.