i need sugar cooking tips

[keakar]

I like to do pralines and such for holidays and get togethers but I have a hard time doing it without burning it because it takes so long to reach soft ball and I cant stand on my feet for long periods without pain.

is there a better way then just standing over a pot on the stove for an hour waiting for that 5 second interval between burning and reaching soft ball?

I just throw my evap milk and sugar in a pot so its about an inch to 1 1/4" deep and stir while set on medium heat with candy thermometer about 1/4" off the bottom and away from the side of the pot.

just wondering if there is a better way to ensure it doesn't burn