I'm only nostalgic for retro-technology because it's what got me into the field. I might boot up a copy of SIMH and run a DEC PDP-11 image of RSTS/E or the like just to see it again and wonder at the fact I have control over a simulation of a machine I lusted over and learned so much from. That usually lasts about 1/2 an hour and then I'm on to learning something new. The novelty and innovation is what makes this industry so much fun. I can't imagine ever growing tired of it.
In terms of "good old times" I just lament the fact kids today don't have the unstuctured freedom to explore the physical world like we did. People today (from my perspective) have very different perceived risk than older folks.
I agree with your last point--it's a real shame my kid will never have the experience of getting on her bicycle at 7AM, exploring a 10-20 mile radius all day without a call phone and GPS, and being trusted to return by sundown. I'd have no objection to allowing it, but every nosy ninny in the area would call 911 at the mere sight of an unaccompanied kid roaming the neighborhood.
In terms of "good old times" I just lament the fact kids today don't have the unstuctured freedom to explore the physical world like we did. People today (from my perspective) have very different perceived risk than older folks.