by Adam Bledsoe

Oh, what a beautiful day! Growing up in Northeastern Ohio, I enjoyed many fall days like today. My favorite season is autumn. The cool temperatures, beautiful autumn leaves and the scent of pumpkin, spice and everything nice. (Bonus, I am including my absolute favorite fall recipe — you definitely want to try this!) I look forward to these seasonal changes. 

November is my favorite month. One big reason is deer season! Deer hunting in Arkansas means early mornings, spending time with hunting buddies and the rewards of the harvest. However, there can be stressful times during this season as well. 

Christmas is right around the corner. Are you done with your Christmas shopping yet? Many of us struggle with the balance of providing a wonderful Christmas for our families while not putting ourselves in a financial bind. Remember the true meaning of Christmas.

We all deal with seasonal changes in our lives. School-age, college/young professional, late 20s/early 30s, young parents, parents of teens (Lord help us), empty nesters, upper middle-aged, senior citizens, etc. 

I have found myself going through changes lately. At 39.5 years of age, I finally graduated from Harding University. It was one of the proudest days of my life! After graduation, I asked the Lord to help me grow and find a way to be uncomfortable. 

After working for the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office for more than five years, the Lord provided an opportunity to work at First Service Bank as a business development officer. Let me tell you something, I gained some amazing friends from my short stint there. I am thankful for that opportunity. 

Some think I’m crazy for leaving a job after a short amount of time, but Amanda and I listened to our calling to provide a wonderful life for our kids. We were having to pay people to take our kids to ball practices, events, etc. We have been so incredibly blessed with wonderful patrons at our clinic, which allowed me to “retire.” 

As some of you know, I have worked with THV11 in one capacity or another for four years. The Lord opened another door, and now I find myself working at the Little Rock TV station as a feature reporter. You have seen me on Friday mornings at various schools participating in “Home Field Advantage” as well as my segments traveling around the state, checking out the beautiful scenery and interacting with the local Arkansans that make this the greatest state in which to live. I feel like this is another season in my life and I’ve enjoyed these seasonal changes.

Get out of your comfort zone! I never aspired to be a television personality growing up (and the jury is still out). In fact, I would have laughed in your face if you would have told me this was something I would end up doing. However, I have the wonderful opportunity to interact and engage with so many from Central Arkansas. I meet people who may suffer from a low self-esteem or have dealt with many trials and tribulations. I sincerely want people to know they can do anything they set their minds to. I am living proof. 

Enjoy the seasonal changes of life.

Here’s the most amazing pumpkin recipe. Take photos of your finished product with your copy of 501 LIFE, and who knows, you may see yourself in a future issue. 

Harvest Pumpkin Sausage Soup 

(as borrowed from the Silver Dollar City’s Culinary & Craft School)

1 pound sausage

1 cup finely chopped sweet onion

2 1/2 cups chicken broth

2 cups canned pumpkin

1 teaspoon lemon juice

2 cups cream, warmed

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

Cheese and/or chopped nuts for topping

(Manchego or Jarlsberg cheeses are great options)

Brown and finely crumble sausage in skillet. Drain. Sauté onion in sausage drippings. Mix all ingredients until well blended and heat in a saucepan or crock pot until thoroughly warm. Sprinkle cheese or chopped nuts on top when serving.

Option: For added flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon maple flavoring or 1 tablespoon praline syrup.

Like many soups, this recipe tastes better the second day when the sausage has flavored the pumpkin and vice versa. This soup is best served as a pre-meal soup, and not as a main course (note from Adam, I can eat the entire pot — it’s AMAZING). Makes 6-8 one-cup servings.

Live the dream you never knew you had and have the best day of your life! I love you!