Christmas is a magical time for children: the excitement of putting baubles on the tree; searching the night sky for Santas sleigh; the joy of leaving a carrot for Rudolph and a glass of milk for Santa on Christmas Eve the list in endless.
But, as many people with children will understand, some of this magic begins to fade as they grow older. This was the case for Moyra and Peter Paterson from Campbeltown.
We have five grown-up children between us and, although I truly treasure the time we spend together over Christmas, its not the same as when they were little said Moyra.
This year is different, however, as the couple have become foster parents and have a young child in their care.
Moyra said: Its fantastic the whole house is filled with an air of excitement. Every morning theres a door on the advent calendar to open, our tree has decorations hanging on it that the little one made at nursery and weve written a letter to Santa. Weve also got the nursery Christmas concert to look forward to. These are truly special times and Im delighted that we get to make a difference to this little ones life.
Were making special memories memories that will last a lifetime, and the joy that we get out of fostering and making a difference to young peoples lives cant be underestimated.
Fostering is one of the best decisions weve ever made. Id urge anyone considering applying to get in touch with the councils fostering team.
To find out how you can help make a difference to a young person's life, visit: www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/fostering
