Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater has joined the Wednesday's Child network to help spread the word about children that are waiting for families to give them the loving care that they need. Each Wednesday we will profile a different child. For more information about Wednesday's Child and how you can be involved check the web site at: http://www.idahowednesdayschild.org/.

Cody

Age: 16

My name is Cody. I'm writing this letter because I want an adoptive family that will make a commitment to me for a lifetime, not just until I turn 18. I'd like parents who share many of my same interests, so this seems like a good way to let you know what those are. I like bodybuilding, hiking, swimming in open water, target practicing, dirt biking, hunting, fishing, wrestling, baseball, football, basketball, and working on cars. I'd like to learn how to do a lot of things with a dad. I haven't had that kind of relationship in my life.

My family could be a mom and a dad or two dads or a single dad. I want a parent who is welcoming when I get home from school or football practice--maybe with a snack--someone who asks me about my day. I'd love it if he or she would take me to the movies or go shopping with me. That would be great--I don't like to shop alone. I'd like a parent who listens and is interested in the good and the bad, without trying to fix it for me.

I'd like a dad who also listens and shares his own experiences and knowledge, but doesn't think he has all the answers--someone who's willing to learn some things from others, including me--because I'm willing to learn from him. I'd like a dad who will work with me on my senior project, like renovating a car. We could learn things together.

When I'm having troubles with a girlfriend or other kids at school, I'd like my dad to take me to the gym, go jogging or for a ride, so we can talk. He can give me some different ways to look at the problem and share his experiences. That's why it's important that my parents aren't anxious or over-protective. I need guidelines, but I also need to discover things for myself. If they're a couple, it would be nice if they balance each other out--like if one is cautious and a planner, the other one is more adventurous and into exploring possibilities. This world would be so boring if we were all alike.

I'm open to brothers and sisters of any age or none. I think I might like an older brother who could be like a mentor, and we could do things together.

I'd like to live in Idaho or a nearby state so I can visit my grandmother. She raised me and I love her. She's not well, so I need to spend time with her while I can. I'd also like to stay connected with my sister and her family. I have a little nephew who's three months old. They all live in south-central Idaho.

I'm looking for a family that is focused on the present and the future and is willing to let go of the mistakes in the past. We all make mistakes and I'm no different. I need positive people around me who believe in the ability to make corrections and move on.

When I think of the future, I like to imagine that I could be a doctor or a lawyer. I might want to get my education in some branch of the military--maybe the Marines or the Army. I'd like to eventually have the income to get married and provide well for my family. I'd like a nice home and to be able to enjoy life and to travel.

I'd like to be the kind of parent who listens to my kids and is engaged in their activities. When they make mistakes, I won't turn away from them. I'll pick them up and be with them while they're learning and growing. I'll never turn them out because they disappointed me. To me, that's a parent's job. We would be a part of each other's life no matter what.

I want families to know that I want to be a son who is there for my family--like helping with whatever needs to get done. But I don't want to get swamped with more than I can handle. I need time to be a kid--time to be with my friends. I want my parents to be proud of me and I want to be proud of them.

Cody's permanency team is looking for a family that will connect him with pro-social supports such as community groups, church and opportunities for him to learn independent living skills. Call the Idaho CareLine today and let them know you have a current home study or are willing to get one completed immediately. Cody is ready to join a family now!

Portrait by Barb at Barb Bergeson's Studio

To find out more about Cody, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. You may be asked for reference number 30576.

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