Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater joined the Wednesday's Child network a little more than a year ago 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/.

Katie

Age: 12

"Hi, my name is Katie. I'm twelve years old. I love to listen to music--Christian and Pop Rock and some Rap. I like to play with my foster sisters after school. I like to cook things in the kitchen and I love to bake. I also like drawing and playing soccer.

Some of the things I dream of doing some day are being a cheerleader and learning gymnastics. I would love to be a princess in a rodeo or a parade. I'd love to go to Disneyland and I'd like to raise a puppy.

I have family members in Southern Idaho who are important to me. I hope my adoptive family will help me stay in touch with them. Thinking about a family is a little scary because I wish I could stay with my foster parents. I would like to live with a mom and a dad but would not like to live with just a dad. But I'd like a respectful, kind and gentle family that will be there for me and won't give me up--ever. I'd like to be the only child or have older sisters who are active and like to have fun. I would want my parents to come to my games at school and pay attention to me. I know that I really need that."

Katie's foster mom says she's a natural in the kitchen. She likes to grate cheese, cut up vegetables and stir pots. Her caseworker says she is one of her favorite kids because she can be so lively and so dramatic! She is making progress in a large family that has lots of structure.

Katie has been working on weighing options before she decides and making good choices. Her ability to bond has grown stronger even in a temporary living arrangement. Although she's hesitant about one more move, she's keeping that option open. She wants parents who can help her realize her dream of absolute stability, even on days that seem bumpy. Katie would do best with a family where she is the youngest or an only child. Parents who have knowledge of the effects of abuse and neglect as well as children dealing with attachment challenges would be a great match for this resilient survivor. With the right family cheering her on, Katie will come to know the rewards of a permanent, winning team.

To find out more about Katie, call the Idaho CareLine number, 1-800-926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30202.

Portrait by Pomerelle Portrait Design Studio

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