The helium shortage first brought to light in fall 2006 is now inpacting balloon sellers across the country. What was once thought to be a national helium shortage is now being considered a global event.

Car dealerships, Real Estate Agents and local stores are reporting challenges in obtaining helium to fill their balloons.

Walmart, Publix and other large retailers of balloons are reporting balloon sales overall are down because they are not keeping children's or holiday-themed balloons on display. Some stores report they are only filling balloons as needed.   Check your local stores for availability if you are planning an upcoming event or party.

Persons with events planned for the winter or early part of 2008 should contact their balloon decorator to discuss how the shortage is effecting them and the ability to do upcoming jobs.

People may begin to notice price increases as businesses increases fees due to additional charges in order to obtain helium from suppliers.

If you are planning an event involving balloons PLAN AHEAD to insure helium will be available.

We are sharing again this year the #1 Fake Blood Recipe.  Never to early to start preparing ideas for your Halloween celebrations              

Halloween Vampires cannot celebrate without blood! 

Recipe # 1  Fake Blood

1 c. Karo Syrup

1 Tbsp Water

2 Tbsp Red Food Coloring

1 tsp Yellow Food Coloring

Mix together in a bowl and you're all set

Recipe # 2 Easy Fake Blood

Clear Corn Syrup

Red Food Coloring

Milk - Optional

Amount of blood depends on amount of clear corn syrup used.  Pour clear corn syrup into a bowl, mix in some red food coloring. Adding small amounts of milk will make the blood appear darker and thicker.

Recipe # 3 The best looking Blood

2/3 c. Corn Syrup

1/3 c. Warm Water

5 Tbsp Corn Starch

4 tsp red food coloring

1 Tbsp Powdered Cocoa

2 drops of green or yellow food coloring

Mix the corn starch & water in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the corn syrup. Add the food coloring slowly, checking for color.

Important to Remember

1. Real blood is reddish brown in color. Adjust the amounts of ingredients for your desired affect.
2. Fake blood is messy and some of the recipes may leave stains.  Children should be supervised by an adult.

Have a fun and safe Halloween!

Prom Corsages Are Popular

As florist shops, small home businesses and the do it your self crafters plan for the upcoming prom  and Spring Summer wedding season enjoy this idea.

A recent survey conducted by The National Ribbon company within the last year reports proms are the occasion corsages are most purchased for.  Weddings came in next followed by Homecoming.

The most popular flower used in creating corsages was the Rose followed by Carnations then Orchids.

For a trendy new look for to be worn either on the wrist or as body art on the ankle, neck or bare shoulder.  The key ingredient is an adhesive bandage. 

Using a large adhesive bandage as the base  the corsage is ready to be worn as body art. 

Add to the adhesive bandage

• A single Flower (bold hues are this years popular prom colors)
• Ribbon
• Flower Leaves
• Coiled Wire
• Beads
• Feathers
• Let your imagination fly

The extras such as coiled wire, beads, ect are taped to the single flower and all are glued into the bow as the base.  Using pan melt glue secure the ribbon onto the adhesive bandage.  You are now ready to peel and stick your creation.

Remember to include an astringent pad and tell your prom queen to wipe the skin where the bandage corsage will be placed before applying.  It helps with removal of body oils for better sticking.

Happy Prom

Till next time May all Your Celebrations Be Filled With Razmataz!