Old Dave

One in his life's twilight without phobias or fears
Old Dave was a shearer for fifty one years
Not going into old age like most old blokes and old dears
For the what used to be he does not have any tears

In pubs in bush towns one who did drink many a beer
He has memories of sweating for his pay in shearing sheds and nights of barroom cheer
And though alcohol he has not given away
He does not drink as much as he used to today

For one in his eighties he looks healthy and well
The fruit cakes and pies that his wife Ann bakes at the local markets he does sell
Not in any great hurry to eternal rest in the grave
He is one who does love life the octogenarian Dave

He and Ann his wife of near sixty years are a great grand mum and a great grand dad
One without tears for the past for the now he feels glad
A wrinkled old fellow his hair silver gray
He says he is happy in his life today

As tough as old boots of him one can say
In his younger years he sweated for his every pay
In their market stall he sells the pies and cakes baked by Ann his wife
Old Dave in his eighties is one who loves life.