Knock, Knock
Who's there?
Pecan.
Pecan who?
Pecan on somebody your own size.
(A very appropriate joke for someone who is
4'9" tall.)

Semicolon is hosting a pecan contest. She wants to honor the
lowly pecan and raise it to a place of distinction. She would
relish any recipes, jokes or stories that feature pecans.

Here is my newly favorite pecan pie recipe.

Caramel Pecan Pie

36 caramels
1/4 c. water
1/4 c. butter, cubed
3 eggs
3/4 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/8 tsp. salt
1 and 1/3 c. chopped pecans, toasted
1 unbaked pie shell
pecan halves, optional (not in my opinion)

In a small heavy saucepan, combine the caramels, water
and butter. Cook and stir over low heat until caramels are
melted. Remove from the heat and set aside.

In a small mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla and salt until
smooth. Gradually add caramel mixture. Stil in the chopped
pecans. Pour into pastry shell. If desired, arrange pecan halves
over filling.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until set. Cool on a wire
rack. Refrigerate leftovers.