Southern Pecan Pie

 

I found this recipe in a Southern Living cookbook the first year we were married, when I was cooking Thanksgiving and Christmas all on my own, way away in Germany.  We've made it every year since.  It is, without fail, the best pecan pie I have ever tasted.  Arranging the pecans in an orderly circular pattern is not required, but we like to top our favorite pie with a touch of O.C.D. flair.