There is not much that you could say about Mr. K J Chamberlin, go on you can google him and even though the Applegate directory has him listed as a business, there is not much to find. Yet, he has been the most important male figure in my life, and I get to call him dad.
Today marks his 60th birthday and by all accounts it does appear to be a rather large milestone in the scheme of things. I’m not going to get all gooey and say I miss the father/son picnics and sports day events; simply because there weren’t any.
Not through choice I’m sure, it’s just that during his early stages my father decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a farmer, this normally meant that during those summer holidays I spent most of the time sitting on a tractor or running up and down fields following a combine.
Something that I would not have changed for the world. Yet, he was never without his words of wisdom: "_son, if you want to go far in this world, never become a farmer_" These words remain strong and so far, I’ve not gone back on them. But looking at what he has achieved, I would not knock the outcome; a healthy, happy family around him, valued friends, a respected member of the local community and an interesting speaker and talking point to boot.
To which, on this day I take my hat off and say if that I hope in 30 years time I’m as well-rounded and respected as you are, if nothing else, the bus pass will definitely help!