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/.

Briana

Age: 13

"Hi, I'm Briana. I'm 13 years old. People who first meet me think I'm younger, like 10, because of my height. I love CSI and I'd like to be a crime scene investigator some day. My caseworker says I'm inquisitive and observant.

"I like to listen to music, draw, do arts and crafts, make earrings and necklaces-things like that. I like dogs. I'm not a country type of person who wants to be around lots of animals.

"I like camping and going on picnics. I also like to play basketball and ride bikes. I want a mom and a dad. I don't care if I'm the only child or with brothers and sisters. The most important thing is a family that spends quality time together. It would be cool if they liked watching CSI with me. I don't think you have to spend a lot of money to have fun. I'd like to live in a Christian family-one that goes to church together."

Besides her inquisitive nature, Briana has a few other things in common with her CSI heroes. She's involved in an investigation of a different kind-a quest for a family that shares her intelligence and appreciation of "quality time" with family members. Described by her foster mom as "very mature, smart, outgoing, usually happy, and having respect for adults," Briana can also be careful in opening up to those she doesn't know. She would do well in a family that respects her need to hang back and observe, without swamping her with expectations. When you've experienced many losses, bonding and trust can be elusive things. That's why contact with an Aunt and with two half-siblings will be an important way to build Brian's sense of family continuity.

Briana's foster mom says her intelligence and humor emerge in a smaller setting "with a few good friends rather than a large bunch." These are clues to the traits that would suit her best in an adoptive family. Briana can be very helpful when she is respected. She would do well in a home where kindness is modeled, mistakes are to be learned from and forgiven, and where responsible choices are noticed and appreciated. For mature parent(s) who actively support Briana's discovery of her own strengths rather than expecting her to fit a preconceived daughter image, this intelligent young woman holds many surprises. As she learns to connect with and trust those who have earned trust, Briana's unfolding talents and identity will be well worth knowing. Her family's access to many community resources will help in that ongoing discovery process.