JESSICA DILLARD (Lewisburg, Tennessee) says it’s always a good time at her Granny LINDA ORR’S in Kingston Springs, Tennessee. She especially loves if they walk in and see Granny lying on the couch with her eyes closed. They’ll ask her what she’s doing, and her response is, “Oh, I’m just resting my back. I’m not sleeping or anything.” Granny was born in Cornersville, Tennessee, and has been known to have a few memorable lines, including, “Right or wrong, good or bad, you’re still mine,” and “As long as I have a home, you’ll have a home.” Hosting an annual Mexican-themed Christmas party a week before the actual holiday is a tradition Granny started. Family and friends they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to see on the big day get together and dine on homemade Mexican food—chili with spaghetti and everything else imaginable—and to exchange gifts and celebrate Christmas with a twist! This generous Granny also makes sure anyone who is even considering coming has a gift under her tree.
1 (16 ounce) box club crackers
½ cup (1 stick) butter
½ cup sugar (white or brown)
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
1 Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a large cookie sheet with the crackers.
2 In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, add the sugar, and bring to a low boil. Sprinkle with the optional nuts or coconut. Remove from the heat and pour the butter and sugar mixture over the crackers.
3 Bake for 8 minutes. Separate immediately and serve.
MAKES APPROXIMATELY 16 SERVINGS.