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/.

James & Cheyenne

Age: 12 & 13

Profile provided by NWAE

James and Cheyenne are two very bonded siblings who have endured a lot of grief and loss in their lives. Their experiences have only brought them closer and made them more appreciative of the relationships they have developed and can count on. They will need experienced, supportive, understanding and consistent parents who can provide them with a safe and permanent home to grow and thrive together as a team.

As the oldest, James enjoys being a big brother and cares deeply for sister Cheyenne. He's like many boys his age and loves to get outdoors and play, or sit for a while and play videogames. He has a healthy appetite and is not a picky eater; he likes food of all types. A recent outing exposed James to the world of fishing, which he found he really enjoyed. He's also a music lover and participates in choir, where he gets to perform. James has a sensitive side and is loyal to those people that have touched his life in a positive way.

Cheyenne has a wonderfully expansive imagination. Her creative side leads her to enjoy games of make-believe and inventing rich stories. When she isn't deep in her world of pretend, she flexes her musical and performing side, writing and singing songs and playing the piano. Cheyenne likes to be active in her church. She also loves to fish, ride her bike, play basketball and is taking karate lessons.

Both James and Cheyenne have special needs. Despite the challenges they face, when addressed with patience and structure, these kids show positive potential. They will thrive in a two-parent home with abundant affection and ample encouragement. Legally free, a slow and thoughtful transition into an adoptive home is necessary for their placement.

James and Cheyenne's life before coming into care is largely void of details. Their adoption journey first began when they were adopted in another state in 2004, but they were thrust back into the system when their adoptive mother passed away. This loss, understandably, left them shaken and deeply affected. While they have little or no known relative connections, they have developed a strong bond with their foster families, and an ongoing relationship may be important to maintain once they transition into a permanent family. Successful adoptive parents will have knowledge of how grief and loss affect children, and be prepared to work with James and Cheyenne to establish trust and help them gain the confidence of security in their new home.

Academically, the life events James and Cheyenne experienced have taken a toll on their schooling. James receives special education and developmental disability services that help him overcome his challenges, while Cheyenne is repeating the fifth grade. Their prospective family will need to work closely with the school and community providers to ensure that these siblings are receiving the support services they need and deserve. Socially, the kids struggle to make and maintain friends in school and in the community, though they both desire these relationships. They will benefit from healthy family interactions and community activities that help expose them to other peers with similar interests.

Both James and Cheyenne need a family that can offer permanency, stability, consistency, and most importantly, unconditional love. They are a unique and special sibling group that deserves a forever family. While they experience typical sibling squabbles, they love and depend on one another. They get excited about the thought of exploring new opportunities as they get older, and would love to experience them with a loving and caring family.

Portrait by Emily Hall Photography

James & Cheyenne are available for adoption through the State of Oregon. To find out more about adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588.

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