I remember watching this TV series frequently as a preteen. But my being so young at the time, and that being so long ago, I recall scant details. What I do remember, due no doubt to repetition, is the "I remember" voice-over sequence that opened each episode. And although the images are vague in my mind, I remember the warm feelings of a close-knit family facing various situations. What I remember most vividly, however, is Peggy Wood as Mama.
I'm heartsick that the bulk of these episodes, like some other favorite pioneering TV series, were never recorded, and therefore -- unless somebody finds a way to recapture ancient transmissions still rattling around in outer space -- will never find their way to DVD.
If anybody still alive who was associated with the series were to write an "I remember" memoir, I'm sure there would be many who would appreciate their documenting an almost forgotten piece of TV history. Perhaps some UCLA film student could take this on as an oral history project.
Update: I suppose with the death of Dick Van Patten on June 23, 2015, that hope is dashed. R.I.P. "Nels."
