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/.

Mercedes

Age: 14

"The thing I would most like families to know about me is that I'm a country girl. I grew up on a feedlot, where I helped with outdoor chores; driving heavy equipment and helping with the animals. I would love to live and work with horses and participate in rodeo events with a family. Someday I might like to have a horse farm where I could raise and train horses and have a dog. I would also like to go to culinary school to be a chef. I love cooking!

My favorite subject in school is English. I like spelling and working with words. I would describe myself as an athlete more than anything. I went to State last year in track. I did hurdle, shot put and discus. I used to do gymnastics when I was little. I would love to take it again.

I would like to have a family with a mother and a dad who are supportive and patient. It's important that when I get angry, they give me some space to cool down and think. I say really dumb things when I'm angry.

I would love being an older sister. In fact, I'd like to be the oldest child. I like younger kids and I'm good with them. I wouldn't mind babysitting. I haven't done a lot of that, but I'd like to try."

Mercedes could thrive with an experienced parent or parents who set clear boundaries and are consistent in recognizing accomplishments as well as holding family members accountable when they step over those lines. She would feel more secure and loved with folks who have an authoritative parenting style. That means respecting a young person's emerging identity, but not being permissive when they are testing rules.

Mercedes' confidence will expand with the support of an experienced single mom or a traditional couple who have excellent communication skills. A couple would need to take the time to coordinate and collaborate together in a way that assures Mercedes they are "as one" in purpose. She longs for committed love but may take considerable time to know how to respond or trust in it. An understanding of how to strengthen bonding would be so important to Mercedes' ability to experience deep, satisfying relationships in her life. She deserves folks who will not disappoint in this area.

Parent(s) should have a plan for accessing community services, which might include individual and/or family counseling. An understanding of personality formation and how that is affected by difficulties in early childhood would help in addressing challenges in a way that everyone can be a winner. And humor will help the entire family over any rough spots.

Mercedes is a good student, a people-pleaser, a hard worker and finds confidence in each new achievement. Her affinity for animals is an important area that will enhance her life. As you build on her strengths, attend her athletic events, reward responsible behavior, and show your acceptance, you (and Mercedes) will discover an amazing, accomplished young woman who is prepared for a bright future.

Portrait by Barb from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Mercedes, 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 to provide this reference number: 30499.

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