Dolly Parton, Banana Pudding, and One Very Honest Five-Year-Old

Who doesn’t love Dolly Parton?

Her joy was infectious. Her hair was big, her costumes sparkled, and she always had a way of making people feel like they could dream a little bigger.

My love for Dolly started when I was only five years old and attended one of her concerts. I wish I could tell you what songs she sang that night, but I honestly do not remember a single one. What I do remember is being completely dazzled by her big hair, beautiful costumes, and larger-than-life presence.

I also remember how dark it was when we walked outside after the concert. And I remember the souvenir book I brought home. I looked through that book over and over, studying every picture of Dolly in all her sparkly glory.

I have no idea what happened to my original book, but the one pictured here is similar to it. Seeing it takes me right back to that five-year-old little girl who thought Dolly Parton was the most glamorous woman in the whole world.

Apparently, Dolly made quite the impression on me.

A few days after the concert, my mama went to a Home Interiors party at a friend’s house. For those who missed that era, a Home Interiors party was basically a living room full of women shopping for framed pictures, candles, decorative shelves, and enough brass wall décor to transform any house in America.

Because my mama had me later in life, I may have been the only child there. At some point, I was sent outside with the men while they talked about cars, the news, and whatever else grown men discussed while their wives bought home décor.

I do not remember their conversation, but I know exactly how my part of the evening ended because Mama has told this story for years.

Mr. O’Neal brought me back inside, walked over to my mama, and said, “Hey, you might want to keep her inside. She’s out there telling the men she’s going to have big boobs like Dolly one day.”

Listen, I had just witnessed greatness.

Call it inspiration. Call it admiration. Call it a five-year-old with absolutely no filter.

Whatever you call it, Dolly, I loved you and all your bigness.

Since we are talking about Dolly, I am also sharing her banana pudding recipe. This is my favorite banana pudding, and it is every bit as comforting and Southern as you would expect something connected to Dolly Parton to be.

Big hair, big dreams, big opinions, and a big bowl of banana pudding.

Honestly, that sounds like a pretty good way to live.

We will miss ya, Dolly. Thank you for all you gave us. Your music, your kindness, your laughter, and your larger-than-life spirit will continue inspiring little girls for generations to come. -Bigger is Better LaDonna