Flash Memory/memoir

I remember Welcome Wagon. Welcome Wagon was an idea dreamed up between neighborhood groups and the local Chamber of Commerce. In the 1960s and 70s when suburbs were expanding and many middle-class families (remember those ?!) were moving into homes, Welcome Wagon was a way to introduce the families and familiarize them with the local businesses (remember those?!).

I remember when our family moved to a newer, bigger house in Village South in Centerville and a woman came to our door within the first week carrying literally a basket with gifts and coupons. She learned our name and a bit of our story ie why we moved etc.

I thought of this last night as I took a quick walk—it was starting to sprinkle—and reflected upon the fact that I didn’t know the names of 90% of our neighbors. There was no welcome when we moved here in 2022. And, truthfully, several homes have turned over multiple times since then. Some are owned by older singles who either work or are retired and, thus, gone a lot. Their house is a place where they live and store their stuff, but not really a place where they grill or hang out in the yard.

One family with 3 kids at an oddly-shaped corner lot are always outside playing, but there are quite a few families with kids where you ALMOST NEVER see the kids. At times I’ve been surprised to see a school bus picking them up: Where did they come from?!!

Yes, I’m a product of the 60s/70s and of Welcome Wagon. Why don’t we know each other? Why don’t the kids come outside and play?

I cannot fathom 2026 neighborhood dynamics. Are they all inside on screens and devices?

As I pass at night, I see flickering blue light behind the drawn curtains.  

Bring back Welcome Wagon—I’ll serve as host!