Mere Mere Joe's Passion Fudge

Cook 1 cup sugar in black iron skillet over low heat.

Stir constantly with wooden spoon until sugar melts and is light brown in color.

Cook remaining 2 cups sugar with milk in a big pot over low heat until it bubbles on side of pot.

Pour hot syrup mixture into pot of sugar and milk, stirring constantly.

Cook over medium heat until firm ball stage. Remove from heat. Add soda, stirring well as it foams.

Add oleo. Stir until melted. Add vanilla. Beat until candy begins to thicken. Gently stir in pecans, then pour into well-greased 9 x 13-inch pan.