Thanksgiving is not only a time to stop and reflect on what we are thankful for, it is also a time to show people how thankful we are for them. Seniors in their 70s, 80s and 90s at Buckner Westminster Place recently showed local firefighters just how thankful they are for their service by baking 36 homemade pies for their heroes to enjoy both at the station and at home. In the afternoon, firefighters came to Buckner Westminster Place where the residents surprised them with the pies and their gratitude in the Friendship Room. Each of the 18 firefighters got to choose a pie to take home to their families. The remaining 18 pies remained at the station for each shift of firefighters to enjoy.
“I really enjoy baking and was excited to do it for the firefighters who sacrifice so much to make sure we are all safe,” said 82-year-old Dorothy Graff, a resident of Buckner Westminster Place. “All of the ladies at Buckner Westminster Place were excited to participate in this baking project. We all feel really good about being able to show our thanks for them. This is the first time I’ve made pies for anyone but my family. It makes me happy to think that the firefighters enjoyed my pies at work and were able to take one home to share with their families.”
Graff learned how to bake in high school in a cooking class and learned from her mother as well. Most of her pie recipes have been passed down to her from her mother. Her favorite pie to make is pecan pie, which she plans on making for the first responders. She also enjoys making pumpkin pies, sweet potato pies and mince meat pies. Graff and the other ladies at Buckner Westminster Place were eager to show their thanks through baking.
“The key to making a great pie is to make sure you make the crust right; it sets the tone for the rest of the pie,” shared Graff. “My favorite part of baking is pulling the pastry out of the oven and seeing that it turned out real good. I really enjoy baking and sharing my homemade treats with others. Everybody likes dessert after a good meal.”
Graff said it is more fun for her to give than to receive. She grew up eating these pies, learned how to bake them and was excited to share these joys with others who sacrifice so much.
“I cannot begin to imagine what it is like to sacrifice everything to ensure the safety of others,” said Graff. “It is such a dangerous job and it is wonderful that they choose to serve us. My brother and my cousin served in World War II. My cousin did not make it home, as his airplane was shot down and never found. I always think about them when I give back to others who are also putting their lives on the line and it makes me feel good.”
“The firefighters at station six are quick to get to the community when we need them and they are very caring toward the residents,” said Wes Wells, executive director at Buckner Westminster Place. “The staff and residents were eager to show their thanks and give back to our local heroes who serve us every day. We have so much to be thankful for, so we feel this was one small way we can give back.”