Dianne Spotts from Hatfield has not only provided a photo for us today, but quite a story as well.

We present it to you as she submitted it to us:

Driving away from our street of row homes in Philadelphia in the fall of 1967, traveling north on Ogontz Avenue, bounded on both sides by even larger row homes, its center still hosting tracks for the No. 6 trolley, my husband and I ventured forth to find a new home.

After a few dozen blocks, we crossed Cheltenham Avenue and continued north on Bethlehem Pike, now Route 309.

It was not an expressway at that point, but led to what we considered “the country.”

We had a nervous excitement brewing that day, even though realizing the adventure would probably bring us the responsibilities of a larger mortgage and expanded monthly expenses.

Passing the 309 Drive-In and a handful of stores, we even saw sheep grazing.

“Where are we going?” I thought, my stress mounting. “With one car and no access to public transportation, and three small children, will I be stranded out here?”

On time for our appointment with a Realtor in Lansdale, we drove to a handful of homes that appealed to our price range, but not to our tastes, until we came to a new development in Hatfield Township.

We knew the single home would stretch our budget, but it was the first time we felt excited: A brand new home was beyond anything we had envisioned, but within a few months, we were moving into one.

Even empty rooms didn’t dull the thrill of having a brand hew home. Our three children soon discovered the other children in the neighborhood, and the two older ones were installed in their schools. As a stay-at-home mom, I began meeting others, in a great part, through the Welcome Wagon Club.

Gloria Jones, the official Welcome Wagon visitor, came to call with a basket of goodies; small welcome gifts from businesses in the area, coupons and information about the club.

Wearing her trademark hat, Gloria was the consummate lady.

Using the coupons in her basket, I became acquainted with the area supermarket, cleaners and drugstore nearby, for openers.

Taking her suggestion to investigate the Welcome Wagon Club, I met many terrific ladies and started bowling each Thursday morning at Town & Country Bowling Lanes in Lansdale.

Soon after having a fourth child, I ran for office and eventually served on the board. Many socials and functions followed, including the fashion show, where this picture was taken.

Gloria passed away a number of years ago, as have some of the ladies pictured here. In their memory, I offer a tribute to them and the Welcome Wagon Club, and the easy transition provided to me when we moved into the area I’ve called home for 41 years.

And note, I’m pictured sixth from the left.