Wanted "Gotchya" Party for Vova and Allona

Six years ago, on December 31st, 2003, Mom and Dad were able to bring two very special members of our family home from the orphanage. Vova had just turned 7, and Allona was 8 1/2. We had known them since they were 2 and 3 years old, and Mom and Dad had spent many hours, tears, and prayers as they went through the adoption process.Since they have joined our family, they have been such a blessing to us. Allona is so very friendly and giving. She always cares about others and is very willing to help. Vova is also a willing helper. He loves to give hugs, share stories, and build things.

This year, we wanted to do something special to celebrate the specialness that these two teenagers bring to our family, so we planned a surprise "gotchya" party for them.

Dad took them to town and while they were gone, I decorated. We decided on a western "Wanted" theme.


So, I made "Wanted" posters,



and a "Wanted" banner.

The table was decorated western style. . .
. . . even down to the chip bowls.


One wall was devoted to pictures of the guests of honor.




I made and decorated a wagon wheel cake.
The cake table was decorated with memorabilia from Allona's western bedroom.



And these card holders that I made for them.
Each holder was filled with cards from family members.
Each card had a compliment, note of encouragement, or reason that Vova and Allona are "wanted."


Charity organized some games. The first one was a web. One person wraps yarn around their finger and says something they are thankful for (in this case about Vova and Allona), and then throws the yarn across the room to the next person. As this continues, the yarn forms and interesting web.

Of course, when the game is done, you can't just waste all that yarn!
It makes an excellent turban!Or a beautiful wig!