HUMANS ARE social creatures. We crave connection with others. Gathering is a way for us to connect, build community, and celebrate life.
The fall season is one of the best times for people to come together. The atmosphere is just right, with cooler weather and picturesque scenes of the changing leaves, pumpkins, and hay bales. From small neighborhood block parties to large festivals, the season allows people to connect. No matter the size, gatherings allow people to come together and build community.
Tullahoma residents, Chris and Jacqueline Williams, know the importance of such gatherings and for the last 15 years have worked to host their own fall gatherings while encouraging others to do the same in their backyards and communities.
Making use of nature’s bounty
An abundance of hay and the joy of having family come together is how the fall gathering came together for the couple.
“We baled hay, and a lot of my family lived around Lexi Crossroads,” explained Chris. “Many of us would get together at my grandmother’s home down there and have dinner on Sunday. When fall came around, we had a bunch of hay and an old graveyard down a gravel road. At that time, some cousins were younger and took an interest in hayrides, so it really got started from there.”
He added that they would enjoy a meal together along with the hayride. Both Chris and Jacquline said that family gatherings had been important to both of them growing up, and they wanted to continue that now as a married couple.
Growing into a tradition
Starting with just a small group, the gathering has reached around 50 people making it an annual tradition that now brings together more than just family to eat, fellowship, and enjoy a hayride around the backroads of Tullahoma.
“We invite friends and co-workers,” added Chris. “Our children also have friends they like to invite over. We enjoy the fellowship that comes along with it. We are able to catch up with those we haven’t seen in a little bit and meet those who might be attending for the first time.”
Jacqueline said there had been as many as 90 people attending.
“The year of COVID, we actually had our largest turnout of about 90 people,” she said. “We thought that would be the year no one would come. But I think because everybody had been inside and contained for so long, they were ready to be out and with friends and family.”
With a large number of people attending, Jacqueline said planning is crucial. She starts a list of food and necessities as early as May and works diligently to schedule a date when everyone can come. Chris said the event would not be what it is without Jacquline’s expert coordination and dedication.
“Her job is harder than mine,” he said. “I get to do more of the fun side of things. She does a great job planning everything, ensuring everyone is invited, and the food is prepared. She is the backbone of the whole operation.”
While tedious and stressful at times, Jacquline said the event truly is a labor of love.
“It’s just great to see everyone come together,” she said. “Both sides of our family, friends, and co-workers all come together to fellowship and to be thankful for all God has blessed us with. It wouldn’t be possible without Him. It’s truly amazing to have all these people who make up our lives come together.”
Chris added that one of the highlights of hosting the event has been the excitement of the children who attend each year.
“That’s probably the part that I hold the closest to my heart is the kids,” he said. “Especially with agriculture, a passion I’ve had all my life. I grew up in town, but my grandparents had a farm, and I loved to visit them and ride on the tractor with my uncle or do something to help one of the neighbors. I spent my summers there and made a lot of great memories. And now, when the kids come out, and we see their eyes light up at the [sight of the] tractor, I feel they get the same feeling I did at their age. They have a good time. They enjoy themselves, which probably makes me the happiest about it.”
No matter what you choose, gathering during the fall is a great way to connect with family and friends and have some fun. Check out the following to start your own fall gatherings:
Block parties: Block parties are a great way to get to know your neighbors and build community. You can have potlucks, games, and other activities.
Festivals: Many fall festivals celebrate local culture. These festivals often have food, music, and dancing.
Backyard barbecues: Backyard barbecues are a great way to relax and enjoy the fall weather. You can invite friends and family to enjoy some good food and company. GN
