I have had this blender for about two years now, and it is starting to die on me. It just can't seem to hack the ice in my daily smoothie breakfast anymore; no matter how long I keep it going, I end up with hunks of ice where only smooth coolness should remain. Also, the motor seems to be straining, and all speeds seem about the same.

I am willing to invest in a good blender to make my smoothies. It has to have a glass jar (plastic breaks too easily) and it has to have a removable bottom to make cleaning easier. I want it to crush ice, blend soups, perhaps someday soon make babyfood purees, and stand up to daily use. Please, bring on your suggestions for such a magical appliance.