"I don't want carnations! They remind me of funerals."
Ah, the much maligned carnation. So many colors, yet so few fans. Believe it or not, carnations are what helped me remember the positive parts of this business. Memories of going into the cooler, seeing all the beautiful colors of carns and then putting one of those full crisp blooms to my cheek. Sounds crazy, right. But in the wee hours of a Valentines Day all-nighter, it's the simple things that get you through.

Over the last several months of Laura Jane's, I have once again fell in love with that often ignored step-sister; the carnation. Read the following and see if we can raise her from "funeral flower" status to her rightful place as a go-to flower for all occasions. Here's just 5 reasons why:

1. The colors! Oh how many beautiful colors carnations come in. From the standard red, white, pink and yellow, growers have developed thousands of colors from sand to purple to deep burgundy.

2. They last! Carnations, if treated properly will last weeks. Even in their end of life, they still bring forth color and from a galloping horse, you can barely see the fade.

3. They are cheap! OK, so my sophisticated friends will cringe at the term, but let's face it- there is no bigger bang for your buck than a beautiful carnation. At about $1-$1.50 each- a dozen is downright affordable.

4. They are a full flower! No wispiness here. Carnations are a full petal flower. They also come in several textures. From smooth edged to sawtooth, the bring a fullness that most flowers lack.

5. Minis too! Don't forget her younger sister the min-carnation. All the attributes of her older full rounded sister, but in a daintier form.

So let's hear it for the carnation! Bright colors, affordable price, and looks that keepin' giving you enjoyment for twice as long as any other flower! Viva La Carn!