Instead ...

She simply turned around, grabbed the same arrangement I saw coming in - which was obviously plastic - and handed it to me. I was too embarrassed to say that what I really wanted were real flowers that looked like these fake flowers, so I simply retreated to the door and headed to the auto, trying all the while to figure out how to say Spanish, "Mom, your son is an idiot."

It's too bad I didn't flunk that test today, because today, my mom would probably love a bouquet of permanent botanicals, which have evolved into a staple of many a decorative environ. In fact, with today's consumer bent on having a house that looks good but not so bent on bending to dig all the necessary beds, botanicals of the permanent variety are more popular than ever. If you don't believe me, just check out the fare on homeportfolio.com (which shows you the latest in silk botanicals, basket botanicals, contemporary botanicals and more. If it's simply background information you seek, check out the comprehensive report from Flowershopnetwork.com. It's a newsletter excerpt that examines the place of the permanent botanical in the home. Of course, you could also simply do what you're doing with the faux flowers — and, while you're at it, could you send us an update on what works and what doesn't? Simply click on the link and respond to our blog. I know our readers would appreciate any insight you have.