And it - and he, himself - was valued. Greatly.

"Good question," Nell said warmly. "We freeze the crusts so that they don't shrink down so much when they bake and we weight the crusts down so they hold their shape as they cook. You can also use dried beans or pie weights if you have them."

She set the pumpkin pieces in front of him. "The skin should peel right off and then you'll put it in this bowl and mash it up before adding the other ingredients. Don't worry. I've written down all the ingredients and the directions for you."