I love glass. I love it for the same reason birds love it, it’s shiny. Cleaning the glass around my house, including my windows, mirrors, and the glass on pictures is one of my chief (and some would think, strangest) decorating tips for the holidays. Glass makes the perfect palette for candlelight and twinkle lights to shimmer and shine which does a lot to make magic in any room. Like the trail Tinkerbelle leaves as she flies by. ♥
Receiving this dish in my early 20’s was probably the thing that alerted me to the possibilities with glass and started the obsession. It was a gift from my Aunt Maroline and Uncle Bob when I got married. When I first saw it, I didn’t know what it 
was or what I would DO with it; there were no bananas in it when I unwrapped it, so I wasn’t sure what its purpose was. I love things with a purpose, so when my aunt told me it was to hold bananas, I jumped for joy. It had a reason to exist! I could have it! The pure charm and whimsy of the thing took hold of my heart, and this banana dish has been on every kitchen table, island, or counter in every kitchen of my life. It is a mainstay. I would be bereft without it. We are never without bananas in our house. ♥
Inspiration is funny. You never know when it will hit or what form it will take. One summer afternoon, many years ago, we were sitting at the picnic table in the backyard belonging to a French man we know here on the island. He spread a white table cloth over the wood table, brought out beautiful cheeses on a board, and served us cold white wine in short, straight-sided thin glasses like these, while French cafe music drifted out the open French doors to his house.
I thought, oo, la, oui! How continental! How adorably foreign! How Charles Trenet! I must have this!
And so it began, the glass collection that will never end. Because
it was becoming obvious that to lead an original romantic life, on the model of the early Zelda Fitzgerald, where dreamy French music and entertaining would take place, I was going to need to gather the ingredients (props); these glasses looked like a good place to start.
We’ve collected ours mostly one at a time. We’ll see one on a shelf in an antique store, it will cost a dollar, and we will jump on it like it’s a trophy. Our eyes narrow and shift around the store, to see, does anyone else notice this wonderful thing is only a dollar? And they don’t, so we grab it and run. What is a dollar these days? A candy bar is a dollar.
Because we find them one at a time, our collection of these little glasses is very mix and match. We’ve found them in pink and green depression glass, etched with fruit and flowers, swirled, and hand-painted.
We have found them etched with the Lord’s Prayer.
We have found ones that we can’t believe have survived so long!
Some of them could definitely tell a story. We found this one from the first Queen Elizabeth in the little antique store on board the QEII. It was not a dollar. But it had our name written all over it. The Finding-Nemo seagull word formed on the lips, “mine” it said, irresistibly, as in take me I’m yours.
Over time, we realized that others, with slightly different shapes, make wonderful water glasses. I know some of you understand this love of pretty glasses, because a couple of weeks ago we put three sets of these little glasses, colored and etched, in the Vintage section of our website, and they were snapped right up! Sets are really hard to find but Joe and I got them out shopping as we were crossing the country! So happy you (whoever you are) got them! I will keep looking, when I’m out and about, for more.
We have found them in all colors . . . and have broadened our definition of “what is acceptable” to include different shapes. We had to, there was no choice; do you look at these yellow jewels and say, oh dear, no, the ridges just won’t do? No, you do not. You don’t even think it.
Setting the table can be like putting together a puzzle, a little of this a little of that. But, for better or worse, however it turns out will be very unlike anyone else’s, because, as you know, you can’t walk into a store and just get this stuff any time, it takes a long time to gather this, a person has to be choosy and get just what she loves. ♥
Glass obsession knows no end. It graduates from wine glasses, and gets its wings with serving bowls, candle sticks, and cake plates. It was probably thirty years of antiquing before I found this at a price I was willing to pay for it. I’m just not paying $200 for a cake stand, but I will pay $56. Yes, I will. Here it is, home at last! Holding my mom’s famous Coconut Circus Cake with pink sugar frosting. ♥
Pitchers and ice bowls call my name too.
Early morning light comes in through the windows and falls across the dining table, and this is what we get, free of charge.
Glass star bobeche and colored-glass vintage sugars and creamers are perfect for the holidays.
And here is my newest find. Something I almost never come across, do you recognize it? Yes! It’s a really beautiful cut-glass Banana Dish, about as perfect as it can be. But, you are saying, “She already has a banana dish . . . this isn’t fair!”
And I am saying, “I didn’t get it for me. I got it for you.” ♥
Yes, I did; this little jewel is going to one of you, and all you have to do to be entered for the random drawing is leave a comment and tell me (and everyone!) your favorite housekeeping tip. Or, like last time, you can just say hello! Or maybe a Jell-O recipe would be good. 🙂
In a couple of days, after everyone is all signed up, we’ll draw a name. More fun in this giant mutual admiration society of ours! Willard starts going out this morning…today and tomorrow. I’m off to work on my book! Talk to you later! Happy day to all! ♥
Thank you for sharing all of your great thoughts, recipes and beautiful artwork. I’ve enjoyed your calendar for years and just discovered your blog! Have a great day!
Leticia
Thanks Leticia! Happy to see you here!
Hi Susan! I adore your blog and share the love of Beatrix Potter and glass! My favorite household tip is how to get all the water out of a vase or narrow piece of glass where you can’t fit your hand inside to dry the bottom. All you have to do is take a paper towel, roll it vertically so that it is like a straw and insert inside of your vase or any other type of glass. The paper towel will absorb any water that is left behind. Getting all the water out takes about 8-12 hours. I hope you are having a wonderful day and thank you for being YOU!
Great Lindsay, good idea! Thank you!
Favorite household tip?? Start early in the morning. Everything starting anew and I have the most energy at that time! Also some great music playing in the background. I love music from the 50’s and 60’s, gets your energy level up. Love the banana vase. Banana’s are my favorite and like you I always have some available.
Even through we have never meet I feel as if we are old friends, even our houses are decorated very much the same. No tips except enjoy, this is my time to look at my things again as I clean. Takes longer but a lot more fun. Love the banana dish, my bananas are sitting on the counter and would look wonderful in your dish.
Hi Susan I had a dream last night I was at an antique sale at a school (kids were having classes and all and there was an antique sale there – dreams can be weird) and I found a pink banana dish. It was very pretty and I was so excited to show it to my friend Susan. You have such a wonderful way of making everyone feel like a friend. Love from me, Susie : )
Thank you Susie, that was so nice.
What a beautiful glass dish. Don’t you just love glass. I love beautiful pieces with glowing candles lighted in them. My house hold tip is this. Take your clothes clean clothes from the dryer that your just about to fold. The phone rings and it’s your BFF Christine, she says do you want to go fabric shopping? Well of course I do. So I throw the clothes is the basket and away we go for an adventurus day. I’ll come home and fold them later. Life is good.
It sure is!
I blog hopped yesterday on a little bitty I-Pod while traveling through the S.F. Bay area. I had to come back to your site today to get a clearer view of the banana dish on our home computer. Wow, is that ever beautiful. I’ve never seen one before.
Good Afternoon Sweet Sue…You Know I Love That Tinkerbell~Music…My Wings I Mean Her Wings Fluttering By… 🙂 Oh How Herbster & I Adore Glass! We have a Collection too…One of Our Most Favorite Glass Jewels is a Soda Bottle we Bought at an antique Store on Anna Maria Island…We Found it the weekend of My Baby Sister Jenny’s Wedding…we had a little time & slipped into this Quaint Shop…& Poof! there it was This Aqua~Blue Glass Old Soda~Bottle the kind you use to Spritz Seltzer into a Cocktail…it was in a dark cornerof the window covered with spider webs…but just a small piece of it was Glimmering in the sunlight & I screamed Herbster Look! it’s Gorgeous & The Color…Magical…it sits on a Glass Shlef front & Center Under a tiny spot~light…it actually looks like it’s made of Sea~Glass..anyway…House Cleaing Tips…Let Me see…I use Lemon Ammonia On all MyGlass Things…it Makes Everything Bright & Shiny! & Smells Fresh Too!….& you are so Right Sweet Sue…when the Mirrors Sparkle & The Windows too…& The Glass on any of The Tables…then You light the candles…& The Fireplace…Poof! The House Glows with all The Magic of The Season! Twirling in Candle~Light & Shiny Glass! L♥ve & Pumpkin~Kisses xoxo Poof!♫♥
Here it is Angie! I know that color of glass, so pretty. Nice find!!
Hello! I’ve never heard of a banana dish either and love it! Thanks for sharing!
I would love to own a banana dish,if not this one,I will be on the hunt for one. I don’t have a housekeeping tip right now, but would like to ask you a question. I am getting organized for Thanksgiving, and I’m looking for a old fashioned bread stuffing recipe. My mother died when I was 11, and I so remember her stuffing and giblet gravy. But neither my siblings or I have her recipes.
I have always made my mother in law’s cornbread dressing, which we all love and because we are tradionalists(especially when it comes to the holidays), I will continue to make hers. But this year I would love to add my mom’s. If you have a recipe and tips that would be great! Thanks and good luck on the banana dish to all and I have a feeling any that are out there in antique stores will be quickly found and bought. You’re like Martha Steward. As soon as she would find something ,everybody wanted it! 🙂
Gremlin time again, I already answered this, I wonder where these things are going, to someone else’s blog to cause confusion??? What I said, is that I have my Grandma’s stuffing, it’s very old fashioned, buttery and sage-y — was her mom’s recipe too, and we all love it. The recipe is in my Autumn Book . . . but if that doesn’t work for you, I’m sure (I think, taking the Gremlins into consideration) that some of the other girlfriends may have some suggestions for you! Hope this helps! (P.S. Martha Stewart is only the oldest of six children!)
I just read something funny about computer gremlins on a website.
It said to stop eating the raisins next to your computer…..they are NOT raisins! LOL!!!
Lynn
Hi Susan! I love your fall illustrations! And like you, I like to put fall everywhere in our house, especially the kitchen! Leaves, leaves, everywhere!! As for a tip, one of the things I like to keep around are diaper wipes, so that when I see something that needs a quick wipe up etc. I am not having to go for the dust rags or damp rags; also , I try to clean the shower right after my shower , while it is damp and while I am right there, and it is easier to keep up . I also do the garbage bags on the bottom of the can! We try to have bananas almost every day, and my husband is always leaving them on the counter, saying,
“don’t forget your banana today!” …so a pretty banana dish would be nice!!… Thank you, Susan, for always thinking of us and offering your special treasures!! Have a wonderful day!! Love, Donna:)
Thank you Donna, you have a sweet sounding husband!
Change your kitchen towels every day! Things are so much fresher that way.
Ooooh, this is fabulous! My 5yr. Old granddaughter LOVES bananas, so we always have a bunch on the counter.
Hello from a longtime devotee! My first SB purchase/find was the wonderful ‘Christmas Joy’. Now I look forward to devouring it every year! The holiday just wouldn’t be the same without it! Thank you so much for making the world a brighter place with your art and words!
Thank you Teresa!
Love this post (but then, I love ALL your posts!).
I just ordered a set of your etched glasses and was notified yesterday that they are on their way – yay!
It was a huge splurge for me… I’m planning to give them to hubby to wrap for me for Christmas – after we use them at Thanksgiving! 🙂
My fave piece of glass came from my Mom. It’s a depression glass compote pedestal bowl in the Buttons and Bows pattern. It always, always sat on my Mother’s dining room table, capturing the sunlight coming through the windows and reflecting it in a hundred rainbows around the room.
Now that it lives in my home, I currently have it on the fireplace mantle (out of harm’s way – we have a new puppy!), and every time I see it, I think of Mom and smile.
Thank you, Susan, for another fun and generous giveaway!
It’s so much fun to read everyone’s entries!
Not sure which set you got, but all of them were beautiful, exquisite … I’m sure you will love them. Love knowing they are going to a good home! 🙂
Gremlins are hard at it again! You are truly an inspiration to all of us! I’ve oiled my wooden spoons and cutting boards and they look great. Any tips on seasoning my cast iron skillets? The banana dish is darling!
I answered that in earlier comment, the gremlins are beginning to go too far! Let me know if you still don’t see it!
Like Debbie Hallock above, I have to start early in the morning with chores, but my music is 70s, Huey Lewis & the News or Steve Windwood’s Back in the High Life. I perk some hazelnut coffee, not just for the caffeine, but also the scent is nice throughout the house. My other hint…don’t have a really big house! When all the family is here it’s extra cozy(crowded) but most of the time, it’s just me, so my little bungalow is big enough and enough to clean.
Susan, I shop second hand thrift stores & antique malls, have lots of cut glass & depression glass, also Hall’s autumn leaf dishes And I have NEVER seen a banana dish! IF I don’t get picked I’ll have to be on the hunt for one as I eat bananas nearly everyday. I’ve loved reading your blog and all the girlfriends’ postings. Thank you!!!
Thank you back…something new and fun to look for, worst case scenario!
I have been on a banana blueberry smoothie kick, needless to say I have bananas on the counter all of the time. What a lovely way to have them laying around.
A friend of mine who has an antique business in Wyoming told me about this tip.
If you have sitcky residue from price tags , grab your peanut butter, smear a little dab and let sit a few minutes. It usually dissolves stubborn glue and washes right off. Hope you are having a lovely autumn day!
Oh I like that, have to try it, can lick fingers after!
A little dab of mayo does the same thing! (but I like the smell of pb better)
Susan, I hope you don’t mind if I get off topic a bit.
I just remembered something that I thought I should share since we’re talking vintage glass and jello.
Years ago I decided to make a jello dessert and serve it in a beautiful depression glass bowl, forgetting that older glassware does not stand up to hot temperatures. Spoiled by Pyrex, I guess!
Needless to say as I poured the hot mixture into the bowl, it literally exploded sending shards of glass and hot sticky jello all over the counter.
So everyone be aware that older glassware does not have the same qualities as contemporary glassware. I feel lucky that I wasn’t hurt. So stay safe everyone!!
Marilyn (in Dallas)
Oh yes, good advice!!
Thank you, Marilyn! I found out too late and put my Grandmother’s beautiful pressed glass bowl in the dish washer. It now has a hairline crack along the base. I am definitely babying it now!
Susan, I’ve never seen a banana dish! How wonderful!
Got a yummy jello recipe for you. This is a must-have for EVERY holiday meal in our family.
MANDARIN ORANGE JELLO
1 large box orange jello
2 c. boiling water
1 pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 cup 7-Up (or Sprite or Mist)
1 can mandarin oranges, drained
Place jello and cream cheese in a 13×9-in. pan. Break up the cheese. Add boiling water; mix until jello is well dissolved. Add 7-up; mix well. Add oranges. Chill until set. YUM!!
Hugs to all of us kindred spirits!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH JUDY…
This sounds so good….a new Jello recipe for the Holidays….
Love to you too Kindred Spirit….
Carol O. in So. Calif.
Dear Susan,
Time-out with your Blog is a “treat” anytime of year. I love the banana dish…. I’ve seen it before …. a friend who loves “glass” has one but I’m not sure she knows that’s what it’s use is … but now we do. Anyway, here is a recipe my husband (who loves to cook) cut out of the paper years ago. We love to make it and it’s wonderful with Thanksgiving dinner as a side dish or just as a main dish on a chilly fall evening. Enjoy!
FALL HARVEST RICE
1 pound of well-seasoned lean bulk pork sausage. (Ok, tip … we use a bulk “sage” sausage)
3 Cups of cooked rice
1 tartred red cooking apple, cored and chopped (skim on… it adds beautiful color)
1/2 Cup EACH of chopped Onion & Celery
1/2 Cup Golden Raisins
1/2 tps of Salt
1/4 tsp EACH of Groud Allspice & cinnamon
1/8 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Cook sausage in skillet, strirring to “crumble”. Drain well. Combine sausage with remaining ingredients; spoon into buttered 2 quart baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees 25 minutes,or until thoroughly heated. Yields 8 Servings.
Note: Prepared mixture may be baked in a scopped-out pumpkin or squashes. Bake at 350 degrees util thoroughly heated.
mmmmm, looks good!
Yummy! Copying for a fall dinner.
Love al the glass! Your blog is such an inspiration to me! Your attention to detail is amazing, and everything is so pretty after you’ve touched it. My current housekeeping tip is to tackle one room at a time, and really concentrate on that room, instead of being distracted by wandering around picking things up and seeing all that needs to be done. Too overwhelming!
So right!
What a beautiful glass dish for bananas! Your blog and web site are a great joy for me to read… I have even made a quilt from your fabric for my best friend, what a treat you are, thanks for being you and letting us be a little part of your life.
That’s so nice to hear Julia, thanks for being here!
Susan – no matter how difficult the day – you always bring a smile. All I have to see is Willard’s name and I am hookedm have to stop and see what’s going on. I think I love my home as much as you do, I move my treasures from room to room and never tire of wiping them lovingly and smiling as I do so. Like you, I surround myself with people I love and share my little beauties with them.
Donnie
Love that Donnie, nice to hear from you!
WOW!!! I love to get my Williard and your blog. I so enjoy hearing about your life with Joe!!!!
My favorite household tip is my husband, Mike. He is an amazing housekeeper…He dusts, vacumns, sweeps, unloads the DW and occasionally folds clothes. The tip is to get the husband involved. He’ll appreciate you forever!!!
Always, have some goo-gone as well.
Just got another Gladys Tabor book……In high school (1970) I bought my first Gladys Tabor book, The Book at Stillmeadow, and have been a fan ever since. Thanks for all you do.
You are so welcome and thank you Marcia!
Hey Sweet Sue…did Ya see My Post???? it’s a few Above…this one…thanks! wow so many Comments Happening…amazing…That is a very Popular Banana~Dish! 🙂 xoxo Poof!
I guess I’m not there yet, I’m seeing this one though! It’s a good sign!
Ahhhhh, bright and shiny cut glass. I’m accumulating quite a bit of it myself through estate sales. Screeching halt on that for the time being. Moving my mom out of Massachusetts and to Ohio to be closer to me. HUGE project! My household tip – all cleaning can wait! – (and has lately)! Life’s too short – go out and enjoy it!
Best advice!
I love to use cut glass pieces in unexpected ways and places. Cut glass decanters hold my shampoo and shower gels, a cake stand holds my makeup with a wine goblet holding makeup brushes. Bath salts are pretty in a small cut glass candy dish. Thanks for being such an inspiration♥♥
Thanks Sandra!
Like a lot of us out there, I too have never seen a banana dish before – and such a beautiful one at that. I must have one! 🙂 Bananas are my favorite-ist fruit of all time (is that a word?). Always have been. So, it seems only appropriate that the tip(s) I pass on to you all involves a clever idea worth knowing about bananas:
*Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them together at the stem, they ripen faster (too fast for some of us!!).
*Also, if I have a green, hard avocado that needs fast ripening (another favorite “fruit” of mine), I’ll stick it in a brown paper bag with a ripe banana, and VOILA! The avocado is ready 😉
Everyone have an absolutely lovely fall day <3 <3 <3 ~Cindy C. in San Diego, CA.
Thank you Cindy, good info!
Hi Susan,
I have to say that I love your blog! I love all the ideas you share so wonderfully! I really enjoyed “going” on your train trip across the country and back, seeing your home in central California, and the stops you made along the way! I loved watching your “unique” boat ride home back to the island! Wow! 🙂
I love glass, too, like so many of your other readers! When we put our new kitchen cabinets in, I wanted some of the cabinets to have glass fronts just so I could see my different glass pieces! I want to tell you about one of my favorite glass pieces. My mother-in-law gave me the cut glass “bowl” that she used to use for potato salad. My father-in-law had brought it home to her one day after work. He worked at a lighting company and a cut glass light fixture caught his eye. It was supposed to have a hole drilled in the bottom to be used for a light, but instead he brought it home! I’m not sure how old it is; it really doesn’t matter. I love it’s story and will pass it down to my own children one day!
My housekeeping hint is to put on my favorite CDs and light a scented candle while I clean. I find I enjoy cleaning so much more as I listen to my favorite music and smell the sweet fragrance of my candle[s] burning!
Thank you again for your wonderful blog…I look forward to it every day! And thank you for this opportunity to go down memory lane with my father-in-law’s gift to my mother-in-law!
Very sweet Pat! Thank you!
Hello Susan~
My favorite household tip:
I use an old toothbrush for getting into and cleaning small spaces…actually I have a collection of old toothbrushes in a jar…I never throw them away because I can use them in every room of my house. Whew ~so many posts…I haven’t had time to read all of them so I hope this tip was not mentioned yet. So many helpful tips to help each of us who enjoy homemaking and keeping our house sparkling…like the beautiful banana glass bowl you are giving away. How very SWEET you are Susan to think of us.
Sincerely, ~Debbie
Thanks Debbie!
All the recipes I feel like I’ve won the prize. Thank you all for sharing
I’d love to have a banana dish to hold my bananas then make up some jello to put a banana or two in YUMMMMM it so reminds me of my childhood. My Mom made this for my siblings and I for a refreshing snack when we were kids. Thanks sweet Sue for the blog! Have a great day!
Same to you Linda!
Hi Susan,
If only we all had more cabinet space! Dishes and glassware are a weekness of mine as well 🙂
I only clean with baking soda and vinigar/all natural, and my tip for the day is to clean the bathroom right after a shower (naked-just because you can) and since it’s hot & steamy you don’t have to scrub as much. Plus it makes me hurry to get finished before my hair drys!
Hi Susan, I don’t have a cleaning tip since I don’t like to clean unless it is absolutely necessary…BUT, I love, love the banana dish! I’m ready to hop right over to ebay to see if I can’t find one of my very own! Thanks so much for your beautiful blog. It is so bright and inspirational! I’m also looking forward to my first Willard! I hope your weather out on the vineyard is beautiful!
Hope you get your Willard today!
Hi Susan,
I just read Willard! It was inspiring fun to read the little snippets and stories of your everyday life.
The only tip I can think of right now has to do with a bar of Ivory soap (99-100% pure and it floats!) I love having a supply around because it removes stains from clothes. I will inevitably splash some sauce or drippings on myself when I’m cooking tomatoes or roasting a chicken. I lather up a bar of Ivory and rub it into my shirt or pants, let it sit for a few minutes before throwing my clothes into a wash. It’s magical!!! I have even removed stains from clothes that were washed and dried, previously. The stains will wash away with a little extra scrubbing. I have rescued many of my favorite tee shirts using the Ivory soap scrub . Obviously, I never remember to wear an apron :).
The banana dish is new to me, I don’t think I have ever seen one. Or if I did, I couldn’t figure out what to place in it. Once again, I have learned something new and useful. Thank you!
xoxo
Janet
I love Ivory soap too! Thank you Janet . . .
What a beautiful dish. I am inspired to make all my glass sparkle before the holidays.
You will notice it! Looks beautiful!
I believe in having a good, organized broom or cleaning closet. I have cleaning supplies in cute little baskets and it inspires me to get to work. I also love to play music while I clean. It makes cleaning a breeze!
Hi Susan,
I am lucky to have my mother’s cut glass pedestal cake plate. You’re right, cut glass is so beautiful. There’s only one recipe I use jello for, it is a lemon cake and you poke holes in it and pour lime jello in the holes. You make a delicious lemon frosting with “Dream Whip” and instant lemon pudding. It is my husband’s favorite cake. I would love to win the banana dish as I am always at a loss as to where to put bananas when I come home for the supermarket!
Like the sound of that cake!
Oh Susan, it’s always to wonderful to receive your e-mails. It feels like catching up with a favorite friend and brings a smile to my face! Bananas have seemed to be coming into my life the entire month of October – I have decided to eat a banana every day and think this would be an outstanding way to show them off in my kitchen!
Nice to hear from you Linda Sue!
I am forever grateful to a vietnamese man who shared with me the household tip for catching flies. If you spray windex in the general direction of the fly, it weighs it down just long enough that you can catch it. Viola!
How interesting! Joe will love this one!
It will make him feel like a mighty warrior. 🙂
As well he should! 🙂
My tip is that if you rub your artificial plants with a dryer sheet it prevents the dust from adhereing to them much longer than if you use something else. And, yes it works great! Love the banana dish…..have never heard or seen one and what a great concept! We try to eat bananas up before the brown dots appear but if they do appear…….into the freezer they go to make some banana chip muffins at a later time. Also, wanted to share a great patriotic jello salad and its so good that everyone asks for the recipe :
Red, White & Blue Salad
1st layer: Dissolve 6 oz. package of red raspberry jello in 2 cups boiling water. Then add 1 & 1/2 cups cold water. Pour into a 13 x 9 glass pan and chill til firm.
2nd layer: Dissolve 1 envelope unflavored gelatin in 1/2 cup cold water. Heat together: 1 cup half and half or light cream & 1 cup sugar together to boiling point – BUT DO NOT BOIL. Add gelatin mixture, 8 oz. cream cheese and 1 tsp. vanilla to this mixture. Put all this in blender. Turn on just to blend. Cool and then pour over 1st mixture in pan. Chill til firm.
3rd layer: 1 can blueberry pie filling and 3 oz. package red raspberry jello
Dissolve jello in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in can of blueberry pie filling and pour this over 2nd layer. Chill til firm. Tips: You use glass 9 x 13 pan so you can see the red, white and blue colors from the side of the pan. Also, this is a good dish to make ahead since you have to cool each layer. And, don’t put plastic wrap on top since it will stick to the jello and make a mess. After top layer is chilled I put aluminum foil on top. Enjoy! Btw, your trip sounded so wonderful…….we just had a few days in Disney World (2 hrs. from us) since our son came to visit with his 2 boys…………..WONDERFUL time!
Looks wonderful Gail, thank you!!!
One thing I try to do every night just before going to bed is walk around and pick up all the little things like pens, magazines, books, mail, jackets on the back of chairs and put it all away. Even if it goes into another pile to be dealt with later at least it isn’t laying on the counters or tables. I also had flat baskets for my boys when they were home and I’d just throw their stuff in for them to deal with. I still have a big basket for my husbands little stuff!
Cute as can be banana dish!
Enjoy everything you write and all the drawings!
Household hint:foo-foo spray, great all purpose cleaner.
Mix together 1/3 rd rubbing alcohol , ammonia and water..
Use in spray bottle. Makes everything sparkling clean especially glass!
I wrote yesterday and thanked you for your sunny outlook and your many talents, but I don’t see my entry any more. Yesterday it was awaiting an OK. I also left a recipe for natural orange sugar-free gelatin.
I hope you see it now? There were a lot of replies at the same time, and I think it woke the gremlins and they fiddled with everything for awhile!
Gosh, I’m late today and I don’t know when or if I’ll make through reading all the many comments (I like to try because I love what everyone shares) so my input may be redundant. I wanted to make sure you knew about this wonderful product, Bartenders Keeper I clean my sinks and stainless steel pots and pans with it and a miracle cleaner! $4.50 at William Sonoma but only $1.79 at Target – same size! All you kindred spirits probably already know about it but there might be one or two who don’t.
Thanks for adding more joy to my day!
Thanks Carlie!
Hi Susan! Well, here we go again – please put my name in the pot for the lovely banana dish! This one is new to me, I had never seen this kind of dish before, but I love it.
Let’s see, my tip is when you are cooking to clean up as you go then you will not have such a big mess that is over-whelming when you are done. Trying to instill this in my granddaughter, Savanna. When she visits she loves to cook, but when she is done, it looks like a bomb went off in the kitchen – yikes! She is 15 and I love her dearly and the help in the kitchen, so I try to keep the complaining to a minimum. Just glad she is interested and wants to create!
Thanks again for being you and keeping us inspired – love to read about it all! Love, Gloria in Nevada, Texas 😀
PS. I forgot to tell you that our house smells heavenly because I’m making Touchdown Chili for company tonight. We love it! Gloria
MMMmmmmmm!
I’d be glad too! Thanks Gloria!
you are the sweetest person, and i haven’t even met you! i can just tell 🙂 maybe one of these days….i love the banana dish and who knew such a thing even existed!?
my favorite housekeeping tip is to slip an old pillow case over the blade of a dirty ceiling fan, clean it, and then all the dust bunnies are encased in the ‘case’ and nothing gets too dirty!
thanks Susan!
Smart!!
I adore your website and have been a “follower” of yours for years. I love to sit down with one of your books and read it like the first time I picked it up. I also have a love of glass, mine being serving dishes and a few cake plates (that I found many years ago for good prices). This dish is soooo beautiful, I never heard of a banana dish and I would love to have one. Thanks for the fab giveaway!!
You’re so welcome Pamela, thanks for stopping by!
I am a long time fan, and love reading anything you write about.
I have a collection of glasses that my girlfriend and I had a contest to collect back in the mid 70s from either Taco Bell or Carl’s Jr. They are the cartoon ones. I think I still have about 30 of them, I think my grandson will love them.
Cleaning is not my favorite thing to do, so I am enjoying hearing all the tips.
My reply didn’t make it, so I’ll try again. I once had a pretty blue banana dish; don’t remember what became of it. Your’s is really beautiful…would love to win it! Thanks for sharing. My cleaning tip for this stage of the game is: get hubby to help! lol
Hi Susan. My favorite housekeeping tip comes from YOU – “Housework, when done correctly, can kill you.”
I read your latest Willard last night and I have an idea for a future book — Morning Science. You can share all your funny stories. But, please continue to share them with all of us until then. I so enjoy them! A good laugh is always a nice blesssing!
Happy AUTUMN! and Happy Housekeeping! =)
I love them too, but forget to take a pen and paper or iphone with me. I should do that! Because they are truly forgettable! But when I do remember, they make me laugh too!
My favorite housekeeping tip is to put an X at the top & bottom of King sized sheets so I can put them on the bed quickly & correctly. Love your blog!
Baby wipes are great for everything! Baseboards, quicks clean-ups on the floor, window blinds. Don’t know what I did without them!
My favorite housekeeping tip??? Keep the lights down low (or burn candles) to hide the dust bunnies! :o) Everything looks fairly clean when viewed at low light.
First I’d like to say that I’ve always loved your whimsical painting style, and I love reading your posts. My husband and I traveled to Martha’s Vineyard last fall, it was as lovely as you describe.
My favorite housekeeping tip – when I make our beds I spritz the sheets and pillows with “fragrance mist”. This is very inexpensive and subtle cologne such as Bath and Body Works’ ‘White Citrus’. It’s such a treat to sink into my very-lightly-scented bed at night.
I’m so happy you enjoyed the island! Thanks Shirlene!
My favorite tip is this:
To avoid ironing some of those clothes that have the potential to get wrinkly in the dryer — just put them into the dryer for about 10 min. and take them out, hang on hangers to dry the rest of the way. Voila! No wrinkles!
Also you can get LOTS more life out of your lingerie by letting it air dry instead of putting it into the dryer. 🙂
Susan
I get so exceited when Willard shows up in my in box. I carefully time when I will read it so I have no interruptions and can totally enjoy. The “banana dish” is beautiful and would be a welcome addition to my collection of glassware. Please continue to inspire us through your writings. We need that uplifting, positive inspiration in our lives and in this world we live in.
Thank you
Chris
xoxoxo!
Hi Susan,
I “found” your retail items along time ago, in a gift shop. I love your warm, country ideas and journals. As a scrapbooker, and I scrapbook chronologically, I have to have your calendars every year to put in my scrapbooks to seperate by months, my pictures. I even found a scrapbook years ago, and wondering if you still have them? Love glassware too, inherited some of my mothers and now hunt for own pieces. Don’t think that I have seen the banana dish, but would love it on my counter for our bananas!
I do have some cooking scrapbooks in our web store. Thank you Caroline!
That sparkley banana bowl is beautiful! My household tip is to use microfiber cloths for dusting. Baking soda is a great nonabrasive cleanser for enamel pans. Thank you for your generosity.
We are all such kindred spirits, here! I know this might sound just plain weird…but I really enjoy cleaning. I put on “The Boys” and dance my way through the chores. I think one of my favorite cleaning tips is to use a lemon half and Kosher salt to clean my copper. Shines it up super fast and no harsh chemicals.
I’m also an avid collector of glass….crystal, etched, depression, carnival, mercury,etc. I do not, however, have a banana dish, as I have to force myself to eat them! Perhaps this could be an incentive to make them easier to eat? Received my Willard today. Such a treat to warm the heart and soul as we were without power for over 13 hours, and it is snowing and blowing, here in Colorado.
Thank you for being you and making our world brighter. xxoo
mmmmm, sometimes I love “without power.” The noises of the storm!
One of my favorite motivators is get my hardest (and most procrastinated) chore done before the mailman comes. The rest of the day is downhill.
Love your blog! Thank you for inspiring so many of us!!
Thanks Margi!
I would say I don’t have much chance of winning this, but maybe today is my lucky day. Household chores, ugh. Not loving chores much. But always is busy. Strange
Such a sweet banana plate. It would look good with grapes cascading down as well!
I grew up in the 50’s with a bananna boat just like the one you received as a gift, Susan! I couldn’t believe it when I saw the picture. My mother had it out in our kitchen with banannas in it all the time. I still have it!
I’ve loved all your books since the first one came out. I used to cut out your recipes in Country Living and when I bought your first book I started putting them in there. They’re still there! Your pesto recipe is the only one I use! I’ve just purchased the Autumn book for myself and my newly married daughter!
Nice to see you Maryanne! You still have your banana dish, lucky!!!
Hi Susan, Love your sweet emails and all of your ideas and pics of Marthas Vineyard. I just wore out my Black Dog shirt I got 15 years ago on my honeymoon! Such a pretty place.
My favorite tip is just using great tools and cleaners. I love the swiffer dusters for fans, microfiber towels and floor cleaners, Method shower spray (a lifesaver and it smells better than most), homemade laundry detergent (but I’m about to try a ceramic laundry ball), A Bar Cleaners Best Friend scrub, and I love a good stain remover – I am not a big Amway fan, but their Prewash enzyme spray has performed many a miracle for me (I just buy it online when I need it) and sometimes Pocket Charlie’s works good. Have recently purchased Shout’s Wipe and Go after reading great reviews. With a preschooler, having great stain removers is a must!
🙂 yes they are! Good suggestions! Joe is thinking about auctioning off all his old Black Dog T-shirts! His very “valuable” collection, he thinks. 🙂
My house cleaning tip is to make the bed as soon as you get up every morning. Sometimes it is the only thing to get done during the day, but it feels good to start and end the day with your bed made!
I would love this little fancy banana boat for my favorite fruit, count me in the drawing, Favorite household tip is to use baby shampoo to wash your windows. No streaks and inexpensive. One capfull to i gal. water.
I’ve learned so much from these comments. We recently bought a front loading washer and drier. These front loaders are famous for getting mold in them. To keep the washer from getting moldy , wipe the door with a soft towel then leave the door ajar after using. That way mold will never grow.
Love your newsy newsletter. I am a big fan of yours..I have your books and calendars. Thanks for bringing joy into my life…Balisha
Nice to hear from you Balisha!
Oh, I LOVE the banana dish. Never heard of one before now, but now that I know, I’m keeping my eye open for one! Housekeeping tips? Don’t marry a slob. Marry someone who enjoys neatness and will help you by picking up after himself instead of leaving a trail of crumbs and clothes for you to deal with.
I’ve never heard of a banana dish, but love the fact that they make one! 🙂
I also love glassware & have tons of it, and I usually use every piece that I have at some point during the year! My husband thinks they are so unnecessary, but smiles everytime I purchase some…
Have a blessed day!
I too love glass – and it all began when we cleaned out my grandmother’s house after her death. So many pretty things! My current obsession is with anything glass on a pedistle but I’ve never seen a banana dish – is that one Fostoria?
My cleaning tip is for shining ups a bright glass chandelier without taking the crystals off! Place a thick towel on the table or floor under the chandi and fill a yogurt cup or small plastic glass with hot tap water, 1 tsp. of white vinegar and just 1 drop of dish washing detergent. Lift the cup with the vinegar solution under each crystal and dip in each crystal. It will drip dry on the towel in just a few minutes and your chandi will sparkle.
I’m not 100% sure, but it looks like Fostoria! But just a little bit more “cut” it seems to me. I tried to Google it but couldn’t find it. Thanks Heather!
I love glassware too! Would love to have the lovely banana boat in my collection!
I too have “A thing for glass” always have had. Just clear sparkly glass, and lace curtains blowing in the wind (off topic) ;0)
I have a glass tip;
I always use a squeegee on my windows instead of wiping with paper towels or newspaper etc.
It is quick and easy and they sparkle like diamonds.
I just put a few small drops of “Dawn” in some warm water. I use a microfiber cloth to wash the, then squeegee. Fabulous!
Ooh, I’m with you – I just love glassware. Any and all kinds, including baking dishes and mixing bowls. Can’t get enough of it! I have a stepback cupboard that my great-great-grandfather made and it is just full of my “pretties” (as my grandma used to call them). I have a set if china that belonged to my grandparents, a set my parents gave my husband and me when we got married, a bowl that belonged to my great-grandmother and a cake dish that my mom gave to me, passed through the generations. Just love it all. Okay, back to reality. 🙂 A household tip I would like to share is one that I just found on a blog I was looking at – she said that she uses 1/4 cup of baking soda and mixes hydrogen peroxide until it forms a nice paste. It cleans anything and everything.
Thanks for a chance to win the beautiful banana bowl. I don’t have one, and the one you have would look beautiful to replace the pedestal cake stand I currently use.
Susan…I love glass, too! I received my first pressed glass bowl from my Grandmother after she had passed away. It was one of very, very few things in her possession after the WWII Japanese-American Relocation Camps. I am proud to have possession of it. And…I am thankful to have the where-with-all to buy additional pieces!!!
Thank you for conjuring up these clever, meaningful, and delightful postings! They bring such waves of appreciation to my retired life.
Housekeeping tip? Hmmm…I agree with one of the above girlfriends…invite company to dinner! I’m doing that tonight! 🙂 Better scoot!!! 🙂
My grandmother told me that if you always make your bed, keep the papers picked up, and wash your dishes that your house will always looks straight.
When my husband and I married, it must have been the year of the glass bowls. I think we got about 10 as wedding gifts. Of course, I’ve kept them all (Mine, mine, mine) and added more to them. This year for my (mumble, mumble) birthday, my mother gave me a bowl that I always remember being in our house. It’s tall with ruffled edges and has fruit embossed in the bottom. I love it.
The banana dish you’re tantalizing us with is gorgeous. (I never knew.) Thank you for your generous heart, Susan. It makes me happy just to see it. Wow, think what I’ll be like if it comes to live with me!
change things out seasonally (like you) itmakes things so much more interesting, even if you are the only one that notices. I have never seen a banana dish b4 but it is so cute!
Susan, I am always learning new things from you! I’ve never seen a banana dish before, but yours is very pretty. Totally understand your passion for glassware and all things sparkly. I share it, too, and have been on a mercury glass bent since last Christmas. Thank you for teaching us and keeping us inspired!
My all time favorite household hint is to hire a housekeeper to come in once every other month. There are so many things I just can’t seem to get around to that nag at me. When I have had this little luxury, my life seems all right again. How can I afford it–I will gladly do without a Starbucks coffee to afford someone to come every other month. Worth every penny.
It is, and it doesn’t take as much as people think!
I love, love anything glass. I have a glass candy dish that belonged to my grandmother. The lid was missing. However, one day my husband and I were visiting junk stores in our area and low and behold I found the lid. Brought it home and it fit perfectly. Now every Christmas I put ribbon candy and hard candy in it as did my grandmother. That’s one of my warm memories of Christmas. You just can’t go wrong with glass anything as it goes with everything. Will surly be on the look out for a glass banana dish.
I love antique glass dishes too! I would love to have the Banana Dish. Last December my cousin, Ferol, gave me a Carnival Glass plate that belonged to my Great Grandmother. I was so happy! I am including my Bing Cherry Jello Salad recipe:
1 pkg. Black Cherry Jello (3 oz.)
1 c. Hot Water
1 can #2 Bing Cherries (drained-halved) (save juice)
1 c. chopped nuts
1 small can pineapple drained (save juice)
1 8 oz. pkg. Philadelphia Cream Cheese
2 c. small marshmallows
1 c. heavy whipped cream (Dream Whip)
Make Jello using cherry juice & water.
Cool until slightly jelled.
Stir in pineapple, nuts & cherries.
Pour into 9×13″ pan/dish.
Refrigerate until firm.
Beat cream cheese until creamy.
Blend in pineapple juice.
Fold in marshmallows & whipped cream.
Spread over Jello.
Refrigerate until served.
I wish I had a picture of this recipe card. It has been well used and has the cherry juice to prove it 🙂
I just love your blog! So much of what you create reminds me of growing up on the farm. One of my household cleaning tips would be: Let your young children help and don’t get upset with your kids if they don’t do the job the same way you would. Kids love the sense of accomplishment and are more willing to help when they know that you appreciate their work. My kids are in their late teens and to this day, they argue over who gets to dust and then they inspect each others work to see if they can find any dust that got missed.
Thank you, Susan… Your charming words about the joys of glass have brought to mind a very happy memory from my childhood! I fondly remember our grammar school carnival when I was in second grade. Standing in front of the “White Elephant” table, piled high with parents’ donations of orphaned household items, my eyes spotted the most beautiful green glass serving bowl I had ever seen! Clutched in my hand was only one 10-cent ticket…. “Could I please buy the bowl with my ticket?” The answer was “yes!” My dad and I proudly took the bowl home as a gift for my mother, who was ill and could not come to the carnival with us…. she loved it…. it brightened her day! That lovely piece of depression-era glass adorned the dining table on many happy occasions for years…. and after my parents passed away, the green bowl came to live with me and my dear family. It has been over fifty years now since I first saw the beautiful bowl…. the green glass is always sparkling…. and the bowl will always be full of so many happy family memories. Blessings……
I love our childhood impulses and when they carry over for a lifetime. Thanks Jill!
You have inspired me to go hunting for pretty glass things…Love the banana dish! Great find. My daughter is expecting her first child in January, Just ordered Baby Love and can’t wait to give it to her!!!
Thanks for all the pleasure you bring.
So happy for you Gail, new baby in January, good way to start 2012!
As as a home maker of just a couple years, I don’t have any ingenious tips. I do, however, have a darling baby boy who loves to eat smashed bananas! A banana dish would be a real treat on my kitchen counter. 🙂
Susan, I love the banana dish! I saw one at an auction a few weeks ago but didn’t bid since I didn’t know what it was but I knew I should have since I really loved it! Next time! I only have one housekeeping tip, lower watt light bulbs!
Yes and more candles!
If I could choose I would be made of cut glass and put a sparkle in everyones eyes!
You probably already do!
Susan, What a delightful little corner of the web you have. Such a sweet place to stop and rest awhile after we come in from the world. It’s funny how the “things” we collect become part of our family. My granny’s banana pudding recipe is just like everyone’s granny’s recipe. But, when I make it in her big yellow glass bowl, something happens and I’m transported back to the “sweet by and by”. Cookies from her cookie jar are just better. I know everyone knows what I’m talking about : ) She’s been gone a long time, but in my heart I hear sweet voice and smell the good smells coming from her kitchen. I guess I collect memories. How sweet they are. Thank you for taking me back there everytime I read “Willard” or visit your blog. You are helping to keep a way of life alive that seems to be forgotten for so many.
My daughter has Granny’s big yellow bowl now, the other day she stirred up
chicken and dressing in it and declared that it turned out just like Granny’s.
Memories, thank you for helping us make sweet ones for our families. Iris, Saved by Grace!!
Thank you Iris!
Now you’ve got me thinking about getting some of my misc. mix and match glasses out of the cupboard and using them for a little decoration. I need all of them just for drinking out of. I like the idea of buying just one now and then when I see it.
Last month I just “had” to have your hooked rug, so I ended up buying the one with the cat and the 2 birds on it since my name is Birdie. I love it; it’s in my kitchen where I see it everyday!
Birdie
I have that one in my “wood room” (the whole room is paneled) where we watch TV … it’s a very cheerful rug! Perfect for Birdie!
As a home maker of only a couple years, I don’t have an ingenious tips. I do, however, have a darling baby boy who loves to eat smashed bananas. A banana dish would be a real treat on my kitchen counter! 🙂
That’s good enough!
Susan, my only housekeeping tip is lower watt light bulbs! Love the banana dish!
I can’t make my post work!!!
Dang gremlins, hope this works!
I commented earlier but now realized that I forgot my housekeeping tip so this will need to be eliminated from the drawing. I purchase vintage clear glass salt shakers and sugar shakers to fill with my homemade dried lavender. I then use these for gifts. I have found that the best way to get rid of all the accumulation of dirt is to fill the glass with B-Bs and hot soapy water then shake, shake, shake. It usually works very well. It removes the crusty, old, stuff that just soaking won’t touch. It’s fun to restore the sparkle and shine!
I am so in *love* with the banana dish! I have NEVER seen one before… now it is a must-have for my own (gigantic) glass collection… off seeking I go… !
Household Tip: always take something with you up and down the stairs… even if it is just one little thing, it helps keep the clutter at bay! (And it’s good exercise, too!)
I do it!
Susan, I gave my married son this household tip….when replacing a bag liner for a trash container…always put several clean bags in first. That way you will have plenty of time to replace the bag. My son said, “Mom, you saved my marriage!” I know I didn’t , but I enjoy a compliment from my children once in a while. Thanks for being Susan! Old Mommy
“
You deserve a compliment now and then!!
My favorite household tip – pump up the volume!! I always have some loud, invigorating music playing while I’m cleaning. Or, sometimes I prefer a softer classical. Either way, music gets you moving and helps you clear the cobwebs on your ceiling AND the ones in your head 🙂 Thank you, Susan, you’re such an inspiration!
Thanks Tracy! I love it when a friend gets into my car, I turn on the engine, and my music blares on — such a shock and they always look at me like, “What?” And they find out, I rock in the car.
what an amazing collection you have for glass ware. Do you run them through the dishwasher or like me do you love the feel of warm water on your hands while you are hand washing all of them in front of the window watching the birds eat. You write a beautiful blog and I feel blessed to read it. Thanks
Sandi
I do both actually, some things go in the dish washer, but some really don’t, especially if they have any gold or enamel on them, I take no chances! Thank you Sandi!
Hi Susan,
I just received my first Willard email and I couldn’t be more pleased! Your blog is so wonderful and full of heartwarming ideas! I have been a collector of your calendars for years and now I feel I can enjoy the magic you create even more! The fact that you personally read each comment is so incredible and truly rare in this day and age.
I’ve been an army wife for 26 years and have lived all over the world but I am a Pennsylvania girl at heart. We currently live in Florida and I desperately miss having four seasons. Your blog allows me to imagine all of the sights, scents, and sounds of the seasons that I miss so much! Thank you so much for that!
My household tip…. Display a Susan Branch calendar in your kitchen for daily inspiration!
I also thought I’d share a recipe that I just happened to be making for Bunco tomorrow.
English Apple Pie
1/2 c. Butter or margarine
1/2 c. Packed brown sugar
1 c. Flour
2tsp. Ground cinnamon
3T. Water
1/2 c. Chopped pecans
4 large cooking apples peeled and sliced
1/2 c. Sugar
In medium sized bowl beat butter and brown sugar with mixer until pale and fluffy. Stir in flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and water until smooth. Stir in pecans. Mound apples in a 9-inch pie plate. Mix sugar with remaining cinnamon and sprinkle over apples. Spoon pecan topping over apples in dollops. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 45 to 50 minutes. ( place on cookie sheet – it drips.). Serve in bowls with cream.
I read that you loved England… So do I. Thought you might like this recipe.
I love that banana dish too! Speaking of bananas…. I tried your banana fritters recipe (April – I think) it was the first time I’ve had them. Delicious!!!
Thank you again!
Dee
Pennsylvania is such a beautiful place, I can understand your homesickness for it! I like that household tip 🙂 — and the English recipe is my cup of tea, looks great! Thank you Dee!
Maybe this isn’t really a housekeeping tip, but something I enjoy doing during the holiday season (and Halloween IS the beginning of the “eating season”)!! I have an old teapot on the stove (I don’t use it to make tea anymore) and I always keep it about half full of water, and usually add some cloves and cinnamon sticks and set it to a low heat so that it steams and releases the smell into the house! Smells like fall, and warmth, and “home”! If you have a wood stove, you can do the same thing on the top of the woodstove!!!
PS. The banana dish is amazing! I’ve never seen or heard of such a thing! Susan you are truly an inspiration, in more ways than one!!! Thank you so much!
Thank you back Shannon!
Such a joy to see the Willard in my inbox. Thank you for your cheerfulness.
My best housekeeping tip, mmmmm let me see. Do a little of everything every day like one load of laundry every day from washing to putting away so it doesn’t overwhelm.
Thanks to you I am now the proud owner of my first Gladys Taber book.
Congratulations!!!
We have talked before…online….and I can’t even begin to tell you how very much joy your work, and you being YOU, have given me…I own all your books(as do the friends and relatives I’ve given copies to as well.) I am so looking forward to the new one you’re working on now….waiting out the new treasure….I am a collector of many things…tableware being one of the main ones…, but if I am the lucky person whose name is picked, I would like you to keep this banana dish as my gift to you…..for all that you’ve done for me, for all the enjoyment you’ve brought into my life, for all the inspiration you have given me. …Have a wonderful holiday season!…….:^)
Awww, Sherry, that’s so nice! Thank you!