This is not a new problem. I tried using the "I've read these" button for awhile, but I didn't like the long lists of nodes if I didn't check in for a couple hours. I posted several solutions for this here. A simillar solution was posted some time prior (and deserves your ++ votes) by maleteen2000 here

Other nodes that raised this complaint are:

• Problem with newest nodes
• Suggestion for Newest Nodes
• Massive Newest Nodes Page

And I'm sure there are more. (Those were just a couple I found searching for 'Nodes Newest') Sigh I suspect that until Vroom gets a chance to look into a solution your best bet is to clear the flag BEFORE going on an extended vacation.