We're Running Out of Helium

I had to chuckle last night on Facebook when I ran across our own YMCBuzz's update.

Sorry Eileen, your balloon guy does not have a sense of humour. I suspect this may because he may not have a job much longer.

Further on in the thread, Eileen wondered why she hadn't received the memo. Indeed. Because it seems lots of people are just starting to catch on to this news.

So consider this your warning. We're running out of helium.

Honestly, when I first heard the news I was like, "How do you run out of helium?" Is that even possible?  Let's face it, helium is not really up there on most people's radar except for birthdays. I mean, I conserve water, electricity, natural gas and gasoline, but not gonna lie, it never occurred to me that in my lifetime I may see the end of floating balloons. 

So how did this happen? Well, helium is a byproduct of natural gas or something like that. I don't have the patience to wade through the Wikipedia page, but go at it if you're into that stuff. Anyhoo, the U.S. Government had built up this huge reserve of the stuff and then thinking they had too much, flooded the market with cheap helium for the masses. Who hasn't bought a helium tank for their child's birthday? Then oopsie, looks like they oversold because now we may run out. And not only that but it seems that scientists all over the world are pissed at us balloon loving mamas and all I can do is shake my head and say "Dudes, we didn't know!!! How were we to know?" (shakes fist at the sky for effect)

I don't want you to despair though because you can still have balloons in your life, just not the kind filled with helium. Here are a few suggestions:

You can use your breath. I've been told that I'm full of hot air and am thereby a great balloon blower-upper. Maybe, but only a few for Pete's sake and then I'm regretting my former smoking habit. BUT, as you know, your hot air won't float so what's a mom to do? Why hang 'em from the ceiling of course!

Then, there are still water balloons, but we are running out fresh water so I would say use wisely and aim well for this one.

And don't forget the classic balloon animal! Of course, you must be a) full of hot air and b) uber-talented for this one. Attempt at your own risk.

If you have lots of leftover balloons from years past you could always get crafty with them.

I also really liked this idea for ice balloons at Christmas! Remember to tell your kids these aren't for throwing. Ouch!

Finally, if you can't bear the thought a world without floating balloons you could always try some of the methods found on YouTube. Although, be careful, some of this stuff is dangerous.