Well, it’s the thought that counts, isn’t it? Well, isn’t it???
I had good intentions when I bought my dad a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label Whisky to mark his 75th birthday.
It was a particularly poignant occasion because the day before his birthday last year, my mum died.
This year, then, I wanted to make it extra special and as he is a fan of blended malts, spent a small fortune on the beloved Blue.
I even had it inscribed: ‘Happy 75th, Dad. Love Keith.’
I couldn’t wait to hand it over to him when I visited between Christmas and New Year. I watched in eager anticipation of a tear wiped from his eye at the wonderful gesture and loving thought his eldest son had put into this special present.
And then he tore off the wrapping.
Opened the presentation box.
Read the inscription.
Looked up at me.
And said…
‘But I’m 74. Born December 22 1937.’
Oh!
Well, at least it will save me a few quid next year – because he refused to open it and has put it away in a safe place until he actually does reach three-quarters of a century.
Let’s hope he lasts that long!
