Wash the Rhubarb, and trim off the ends. Then cut the stalks into 1 inch chunks.

(BE AWARE.. Rhubarb Leaves are not Food!! DO NOT EAT THEM. Just chuck them into the compost pile)

Put the cut Rhubarb pieces, a bit more than half of the Sugar, the Vanilla extract and the Water into a saucepan over medium high heat.

Cook and stir until the sugar dissolves.

Taste the liquid... Is it sweet enough? Or do you need more sugar? Add more if you need it.

Cook, stirring, until it comes to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir occasionally.

Taste occasionally (maybe let someone passing through the kitchen have a taste)

At this point, the Rhubarb should be softened, and even beginning to fall apart.

Take the pan off the heat and let sit for a few minutes... then pour into a bowl to cool.

You CAN eat it warm (and it's quite delicious that way)... or put the bowl in the refrigerator until later.

Serve alone with Whipped Cream, or serve over Vanilla Pudding, Ice Cream or Yogurt.