(A celebration of the Father-in-Law's 80th Birthday, with too many references to explain.

Suffice it to say - an iron man)

 

 

We’ve gathered here today to wine and dine

A bloke who’s now no longer 79

Today, of course, he’s just turned 80

And starts to take things more sedately

Once you’ve chopped my trees down, matey -

It’s worth a glass of wine.

 

In Corfu I have fished you out the Med

You held my spanners while I built my shed

You watched me build my landing stage

Despite me getting on in age

I sweated cobs while you gauged

You’d take a nap instead.

 

You’ve supped your tea while patios I’ve paved

And when I dug my pond out where was Dave,

‘Course you know I’m joking you

On my own I’d not a clue

I’d have no inkling what to do

So Thanks for all you gave.

 

I’ve memories of us strolling on a hike

And listening to my poems I know you like

The holidays in caravans

Or spotting birds at Filey Dams

And teaching Sarah, teaching Sam

How to ride their bikes.

 

I always have enjoyed your company

You probably find that hard to say of me

You’re always patient to a fault

And only take for pay a malt

Your best idea, though, “Fit a bolt

Inside your shed” was free.

 

I never thought I’d say it but I shall

I did right well in marrying your gal

I knew I’d be beneath her heel

But she cooked a cracking meal

I didn’t think that in the deal

I’d get a life-long pal.

 

So hurry up, let’s quickly cut the cake

If you’re wanting photos, now’s the time to take

As it is his birthday do

Get him whisky – make it two

Samantha, Sarah  - one of you

While he’s still awake.

 

Turning 80’s time you should behave

So stop the snorting coke at all-night raves

Take your Maureen overseas

Warm your joints, your hips your knees

As soon as you have cut my trees

So Happy Birthday, Dave.