Thanksgiving is almost here, and Americans all over the country are looking forward to gathering together with their extended families to share the annual feast celebrating the Pilgrims' bountiful harvest. But putting the turkey aside, I was reminded recently that simply having a family is something for which to be thankful.

As part of National Adoption Month this November, the organization Voice for Adoption has asked me to help two Wisconsin children awaiting adoption. The two sisters I was asked to assist are currently in foster homes. They are both teenagers, so the opportunity for them to have permanent parents and a permanent extended family is rapidly passing.

Elizabeth was born in 1991. I am told that she is a bright, personable and friendly girl who could easily be labeled a bookworm. She loves to read and thinks that it is very important to let her potential adoptive family to know this. Elizabeth would also like to tell her family that she loves pizza and eating at Applebee's, she likes to watch movies and listen to her favorite musicians - Alicia Keyes and Eve.

Rep. Petri with Colleen Ellingson, Executive Director of Adoption Resources of Wisconsin. The photo they are holding is of the two kids discussed in this column.

Elizabeth is in good health. She takes medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). She receives good marks in several subjects with the exception of math. Voice for Adoption candidly notes, however, that she has had behavioral problems but is showing promising improvements.

Her sister, JuAlyse, was born in 1992. JuAlyse is a healthy, playful and energetic girl who likes to jump rope, enjoys kickball, plays with dolls, works on computers and reads books.

She needs extra attention and understanding, however, because she is behind in school and attends therapy in order to deal with impulse control, defiant behaviors and Attention Deficit Disorder.

Many childless couples across the country would love to find a child to adopt, but couples usually prefer to offer a home to infants of their own ethnic backgrounds who come to them young enough to bond with the only parents the adoptees can remember.

That's entirely understandable, but it leaves far too many children out in the cold. It takes a very special people to be "forever parents" to an older foster child - especially one who has "issues" (of course, what child doesn't?). But for those with enough love, patience and strength, please consider the possibilities for Elizabeth, JuAlyse and the many other foster kids who are growing up without permanent parents.

As always, if you have any questions or comments for me, my toll-free number is 1-800-242-4883.