LaRosas Flower Chat

Let’s chat….

What flower is delicate, delightful and durable and has a rich history covering 2000 years? It’s also one of my favorites all year long.

The CARNATION, scientifically known as dianthus caryophyllus. The name dianthus roughly translates to “flower of love”. This flower is one of the world’s oldest cultivated flowers and has been revered for centuries. The history dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times when it was used in art and décor. Christians believe that the first carnation bloomed on earth when Mary wept for Jesus as He carried His cross. There are many meanings but the most widely accepted are fascination, distinction and love.

At LaRosas carnations have always been a popular flower choice. Not only are they inexpensive , but are long lasting and have a wonderfully sweet and fresh fragrance.

There are many meanings but the most widely accepted are fascination, distinction and love. Below are the different meanings of carnations based on their colors and traits.
Carnation (General) - Fascination, Woman’s love
Solid Color Carnation - Yes
Striped Carnation - Refusal
Red Carnation - My heart aches for you, passion
Pink Carnation - I’ll never forget you, woman’s love, always on my mind
Purple Carnation - Capriciousness
White Carnation - Innocence, pure love
Yellow Carnation - You disappoint me, rejection


Also, let’s touch base on another one of my favorites, after all it is National Ice Cream Month designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. A tradition in our family during the month of July (ok June and August too) is making homemade ice cream. I have many fond memories of summer vacations spent in Texas with my grandparents and going to their church ice cream socials on Sundays. Below is a creamy vanilla ice cream recipe with a traditional cooked custard base that is an all-time favorite in our family. I found this to be very easy to make (I do double the batch for our ice cream maker) and everyone loves it.

Ingredients:

2 eggs
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ½ cups whipping cream
2 cups half and half cream
4 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:
First mix well the first five ingredients. Then in a heavy saucepan cook over medium-low heat stirring constantly until the mixture is thick enough to coat a metal spoon and reaches at least 160 degrees F. (For me this takes about a hour since I make a double batch) Remove from the heat, cool quickly by setting the pan in ice and stirring the mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to freeze, pour custard and vanilla into the cylinder of your ice cream freezer and follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Here’s a unique and fun combination to celebrate these summer’s treats.

For more information just give us a call 1.800.944.7441 or vist our web site at www.larosasflowers.com

LaRosa's Flowers
O'fallon - Belleville Illinois
The flower people since 1962