HOT AIR BALLOON THEME  Decorations began with simple streamers and balloons.  These weren't ordinary balloons.  I inflated the balloon with helium, cut netting purchased at a craft store in a square (By measuring inflated balloon vertically from the lip to top at over to the other side of the lip).  I then took paper clips and tied string on all four corners of the netting to secure the balloon to any serving dish, fence or wherever desired. In my case, I attached the balloon to a watermelon filled with fruit. The kids took pictures in front of a larger version balloon which was attached to a basket to resemble the real thing. The cake was a standing, six-layer, hot air balloon cake. Each layer was separated for easier cutting. I had Cookie Bouquet make hot air balloon cookies which I enclosed in the children's gift bags, along with large rainbow lollipops, bubbles, and a beach ball.