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Garry Kelsey Music

presents

RiverEdge Songs

RiverEdge Songbook

Published by Garry Kelsey

Photo on the left was taken
about 1948 and the other much later.
My brother Murray on the left and me. (The same people and the same dog)



Before any more time passes I have decided to publish my songs. The songs in this book are all of the songs I have written as of February 2023. I was seventy-nine on June 12, 2022 and all songs were written between August 2011 and now. I don't know how extensive it will be in regard to tableture or musical notes. I will try to list them by date of writing but this may not be completly accurate. Some songs were written in part and completed later. I also have two instrumentals, "A Nice Winter Day" and "Deaf Man Jig", and may try to get them written down on tablature but that may be a challenge. Some of the last few songs have not been recorded and may not even have music. They are still in the development stage.
Just one more thing to get around too.
All songs are original work and copyright © of Garry Kelsey. 2023




Index

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I've Gotta Get Out More-------------------- 1
We've Had A Few Rough Years---------------- 2
If This RV's Rockin'----------------------- 3
Don't Fly Too High------------------------ 4
Archie's Pontoon Boat----------------------5
Preachin' To The Choir---------------------6
My Old Man---------------------------------7
You Let Me Down----------------------------8
I Thought I Was Wrong----------------------9
How Do You Like Me Now?-------------------10
You Can Go Back---------------------------11
I Won't Lie-------------------------------12
Are We Having Fun Yet?--------------------13
The Dog Ate My Homework-------------------14
This Day----------------------------------15
My Story In A Song------------------------16
I'm Ruthless Again------------------------17
Rough Around The Edges--------------------18
Two Old Timers----------------------------19
It's Time to Go To Bed-------------------20
A Nice Winter Day-------------------------21
Deaf Mans Jig-----------------------------22
Are We Having Fun Yet? (Another version)--23
He Gave Me Music--------------------------24
Off The Beaten Path-----------------------25
I've Got A Worryin' Mind------------------26
Mountain Chute Dam-------------------------27
The Mother I Never Knew-------------------28
Snowed Out---------------------------------29
The Winter Blues---------------------------30
Heavy On My Mind---------------------------31
The Hunt Is Over---------------------------32
There's Something Restless In Me-----------33
Norman Is Silent---------------------------34
Get It, Got It Good------------------------35
Ontario Chinook----------------------------36
Pickin' Strawberries-----------------------37
The Winner On Life's Highway----------------38
This Day (Another version)------------------39
Too Old To Be A Hero-------------------------40
We Are Friends-------------------------------41
We Have A Lot To Live For---------------------42
Elwin's Old Fiddle---------------------43
They Found A Treasure---------------------44
We Breath As One---------------------45
My Little Cabin In The Woods---------------------46
Running Out Of Tomorrows---------------------47




   

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I've Gotta Get Out More Back to Index

I've Gotta Get Out More Written by Garry Kelsey on July 30, 2011 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2011 From an idea heard at the Flinton Country & Bluegrass Festival. This was the first song I ever wrote.
Chord D D F# G D I've been locked up in this room of mine ever since she left G D E A She took away my pride and now my mind's a mess D F# G D This house we shared for a while has been my hiding place G D E A D Then I went out into the night and put on a brand new face. Chorus: D G D I've gotta' get out more, "That's what I said G D E A I've gotta' find a new love and stop hiding my head D F# G D I know that I can have some fun and find sombody new G D E A D If I could only lose your memory and forget you The first time that I ventured out without her by my side I felt like I was in a game and didn't have a guide Then I met some more like me and they taught me all the rules Now I've joined a bunch of other guys, sitting 'round on stools. Chorus: So if you end up in a spot without your better half Just around the corner you can prob'ly find a laugh Look at me I joined in and I'm not alone no more I don't know what the game is but I think I know the score. Chorus:


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We've Had A Few Rough Years Back to Index

We've Had A Few Rough Years Written by Garry Kelsey on July 29, 2011 at the Flinton Country & Bluegrass Festival Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2011 From an idea by Debbie Baird Chord G Variation Capo 3rd fret Chorus: G Em C We've had a few rough years G A D G But things will be better from now on G Em C D G We saw them all the good and bad times all these many years C G D Now we are in our sunset days with time to sing and play G Em C D G But back a while we had some rough times with the family C G D G We lost your Dad, we lost your Mom, and others along the way. Chorus: When we met we didn't know how it would all work out We moved in together and sometimes we had our doubts But time has added memories and time has turned the tide The rough times started over when our old dog died Chorus: Now this may seem a sad song 'bout all this death and pain But we are still together in sunshine and in rain We look out for each other and make each other smile The rough times are behind us, we can live life for a while. Chorus: I'd like to say 'I love you " but that would sound so lame I can't get along without you or to hear you call my name We give each other time and space and talk about what's wrong We have our loud discussions but we always get along. Chorus:

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If This RV's Rockin' Back to Index

If This RV's Rockin' Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012 Chord D Me and my wife, my partner in life Like to go RVing and camping We meet up with others, we are all like brothers How can you beat that my friend Back when when the craze was a van with a bed This old line was seen on a sign If this van is rockin', don't bother knockin' But that was when I was a kid When I was younger I used to say If you see this camper rockin' Don't bother knockin' Now that I'm older what you'll hear me say, If this RV's rockin', It's prob'ly someone walkin' But now that I'm older I don't do that no more On our RV this is what the sign read. If you see this RV rockin', it's just someone walkin' There's nothing going on in here Now it's early to bed and early to rise Keep your hands to yourself you old man If this RV's rockin', it's just someone walkin' We don't do none of that any more. Spoken: Nothing going on in here Ending: We don't do none of that no more.

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Don't Fly Too High Back to Index

Don't Fly Too High Written by Garry Kelsey from an idea by Basil Schroeder. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012 We were camping in Algonquin park and Basil and Josie came in to camp for two weeks.
As we were leaving Basil said, "Goodbye, and don't fly too high".
I thought that would be good title for a song and wrote it when we got home.
Chord D Capo 2nd fret D D7 G E I was talking with an old friend, just the other day A D He said, "Things are going good, I'm finally on my way. D7 G E "I've got more money now, than I could ever spend A D I told him to be careful, someday it all could end Chorus: D G A G D Don't fly too high, it's a long way to the ground G A G D Don't fly too high, some day you'll come down D7 G A Get your head out of the clouds, and come down to earth G A G A D Enjoy life and live each day, for what it's worth My wife said I would never have to worry about our love She said, "Our life together was made from up above" I thought, what she said was true, but one day it was gone I remembered that old thing about, flying too close to the sun Chorus: When we're young we look at things, with an open mind We have no fear of the unknown, or what we seek to find We're not afraid of failure, or what lies ahead But things can go wrong, remember what I said. Chorus: D G------ A----D Don't fly too h-------i-----gh

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Archie's Pontoon Boat Back to Index

Archie's Pontoon Boat Written by Garry Kelsey on September 18, 20, 2012. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012 One day my, friend Archie Ferguson asked me to write a song about his pontoon boat. I tried a few ideas and made some changes on Dec. 19, 20, 2012, put music with it and recorded a rough version. I guess you could say, "It's a pontoon tune". I tried to think of a theme for it for a long while, finally I put this together, mentioning some of the names of our mutual friends. This is what I came up with:
Chord D
Archie has a pontoon boat, of it he is proud It is a thing of beauty, and it will hold a crowd They planned a get-together, and everyone showed up Refreshments will be served on board, so bring along a cup Chorus: We wanted to have music, while we were going slow Dale brought his old organ, you know the one he blows Guy brought his Martin, in case we need to row If we wanted a hymn, Doug had rosined up his bow Murray brought his steel, incase we need an anchor If June throws it overboard don't forget to thank her When we left the dock, we had great expectations Of cruising 'round the lake, like we were on vacation All around the lake, we were heard across the water As the sun went down Archie said, "Turn back we ought'r" We had our music, while we were going slow Dale brought his old organ, you know the one he blows Guy brought his Martin, in case we need to row If we wanted a hymn, Doug had rosined up his bow Murray brought his steel, incase we need an anchor If June throws it overboard don't forget to thank her We headed back for home, some got wet but soon dried And not long after we got back we were all wet inside. Food was served that evening, with drinks all around A great day of boating, and no one got drowned.

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Preachin' To The Choir Back to Index

Preachin' To The Choir Written by Garry Kelsey at 5:00 AM, June 4, 2012 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012 Added music on June 7, 2012 Chord D-D-aug.-D7-Em-A-G My back hurts, my head aches and my mind is on the edge I shouldn't have had that last drink, some day I'll take the pledge My wife tells me on on the road to ruin and disgrace Well your preachin' to the choir, so get out of my face. Chorus: Preachin' to the choir is what it's all about Don't tell me what I already know And don't jump up and down and shout Your not lookin' through my eyes and you don't see what I see Your preachin' to the choir but it don't sound like a sermon to me. My old car is broken down and I can't find a job My town is so small I can't even find a bank to rob Poggy has run out and my welfare cheque is spent And your preachin' to the choir about where it all went Chorus: Someday I'm gonna' go to my cabin in the hills I'll enjoy my own company, and someone else can pay the bills With no one to preach at me and tell me what to do Stop preachin' to the choir or you and I are through. Chorus: Ending: Stop preachin' to the choir, it don't sound like a sermon to me.

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My Old Man Back to Index

My Old Man Written by Garry Kelsey while on vacation in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2012. Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2012 © Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012 When I was very young I called my father Daddy. Sometime later I started calling him just Dad. One day I was talking with my older brother. He said, "I always called Dad the old man. How come you never did?" I think this song will explain what I said to him.
Chord D Bm F# G A My Mother died and left us kids, with Dad when I was seven He always said, "She's watching us, from somewhere up in heaven He cared for us without her, a hard working Dad I always called him Daddy, when I was just a lad. Chorus: He was never my old man, He was Mom and Dad to me He never said, "I love you", But that was plain to see He never said , I love you ", 'til he was very old But we always knew he loved us, Without us being told When I would ask for his advice, this is what he'd say, "All my life I was told, what to be and not to be So make your own decision, right or wrong someday you'll know That's how you learn what's right or wrong, and that is how you grow" Chorus: Even when he got old, he were never my old man We miss him every day, now that he is gone So this song is for you "old man", for being Dad and Mom And I will remember, every time I sing this song You were never my old man, You were Mom and Dad to me You never said, "I love you", But that was plain to see You never said , I love you, 'til you were very old But we always knew you loved us, Without us being told Ending: You're not my old man, you are Mom and Dad to me

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You Let Me Down Back to Index

You Let Me Down Written by Garry Kelsey on January 10, 2013 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014;
Chord G C D Am Bm Variation (D Em) Chorus: You broke my heart you let me down I can't forgive (Am) you and come around You let me down right from the start You found (Am) another and broke my heart You said you'd always love me you said don't ever leave But you`re the one that`s (Am) leavin' I had tears on my sleeve I cried my heart out over you while you were runnin' 'round I should have seen you (Am) didn't love me you let me down Chorus: You broke my heart you let me down I can't forgive (Am) you and come around You let me down right from the start You found (Am) another and broke my heart I thought that you might come back I waited like a clown I'm all alone and (Am) lonely you let me down I'll never trust another I'm on my own for good I'll never love (Am) another, I never could Chorus: My house is full of memories I see them every day I can't get over (Am) what I lost can't let them fly away I guess what I should do is to try a brand new start Get over what you (Am) did to me, you broke my heart Chorus: Ending: You let me down right from the start You found (Bm) another (Am) (D) and broke my heart

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I Thought I Was Wrong Back to Index

I Thought I Was Wrong Once Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013 This was a line my friend Bob MacPherson used to say as a joke. I have had it in my mind and decided to write a song about that. I just finished it on March 2, 2013 Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2013 ©
Chord G
G Em C D I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken G Em C D I loved you but your heart was taken Bm C D I thought you loved me now my heart is achin' C G D G You didn't love me I was mistaken Chorus: G D C G No one should ever have to be wrong all the time G D C D When you're perfect as me it's a long uphill climb Bm C To have to admit you made a mistake G D G Is like giving in to another heartache I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken I thought you loved me now my heart is achin' I offered my love but your heart was taken You didn't love me I was mistaken Chorus: I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken I loved you but your heart was taken I thought you loved me now my heart is achin' You didn't love me I was mistaken Chorus:

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How Do You Like Me Now? Back to Index

How Do You Like Me Now Written by Garry Kelsey, April 2013. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013 Completed on May 29, 2013 Chord: D Chorus: How do you like me now? You said it didn't matter anyhow I spent all your money and told you lies You can see it in my lyin' eyes When I was young I used to say I'll be somebody one of these days But now I think I've got it made You work while I sit in the shade I quit my job and went on a spree You didn't see me for a day or three I came home and asked you for a kiss How do you like me now, and what do ya' think of this Chorus: I only work when the weathers fine It's too cold in the winter and too hot in the summertime I sit by the fire or out on the deck And wait 'til you bring home your pay cheque I wonder if you think it's wrong You work while I sing another song Come here and let me rub your feet As soon as you get me something to eat. Chorus: Don't complain about the car you drive I know somehow it will survive We can't afford a newer one At least until I get a new shotgun Chorus:

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You Can Go Back Back to Index

You Can Go Back Written by Garry Kelsey on January 29, 2014 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 Added some new ideas and music on September 16, 2014 Chord G Am C D You can go back but you can't go home Go back and visit those friends before you started to roam Some have moved away and some are really gone You can go back but you can't go home We have moved around since we left that little place Life is not a life, it's more like a race We make new friends to fill our needs But their not friends from school, we knew all their evil deeds Instrumental: As a person ages changes, take place You go home to visit but you don't recognize a face The streets in town don't look the same People say hello, you don't even know their name You can go back and talk to them again But you can't go back to the way it's been Too many things have come and gone You can go back but you can't go home Instrumental: You can go back but you can't go home.

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I Won't Lie Back to Index

I Won't Lie Written by Garry Kelsey on March 19 & 20, 2014 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 I had the TV on in the background and all I heard was, "I Won't Lie". That's where the idea for this song came from, but I built my own idea of the meaning. It's a justification for cheating on a partner. I cheated on you but you had plans to cheat on me. The last verse has been a struggle. I think I have it now on March 26th. The chord progression was an idea I have had some time using a prime chord "D " and an off chord "C " Chord -Capo 2 Chord D G A C A7 Em Chorus: D A D G A I won't lie, I cheated on you D C A While you were away, D C You said you'd be gone, for a day or two G D I won't lie , I cheated on you D G A I thought you knew, from my devotion to you D C A You, were my whole world D G A I found the note, that you threw away D C Em A It said, "I'll meet you in a couple of days " Chorus: D G A While you were away, I was untrue D C A You crossed the line, I did too D G A You should have talked to me, I should have talked to you D C Em A A7 Now we don't care, who cheated on who Chorus:

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Are We Having Fun Yet? Back to Index

Written by Garry Kelsey on April 22, 2014
from an idea that I wrote down some time ago. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 Chord Em A B7 (Alternate Capo 2 Chord D) Are we having fun yet ? That's what I used to say When we were fighting for survival Living day by day Back when we first began Laughter was better than being sad We laughed a lot we loved a lot And made do with what we had Are we having fun yet ? That's what I used to say When we were fighting for survival Living day by day Now here we are, many years later We have everything we could want But somehow we don't have fun now Like when I said too you Are we having fun yet ? That's what I used to say When we were fighting for survival Living day by day Are we having fun yet ? That's what I used to say When we were fighting for survival Living day by day Are we having fun yet ? Living day by day

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The Dog Ate My Homework Back to Index

The Dog Ate My Homework Started writting this one January 23, 2013 Completed on April 30, 2014 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013 Capo 2 Chord G D Em C G D C G When I was in school, still being taught G D I had the inspiration to be an astronaut, G D Em My teacher thought so too 'cause, this is what she said C G G You're taking up space here, you have to move ahead One day I went to school, with no homework completed My teacher asked about it as I stood there defeated I thought I was in trouble since I had no work to give I said, "The dog ate my homework but I think he's gonna live." Chorus: G D C Em The dog ate my homework, was my lame excuse C G D I could have came up with a lie, but thought what's the use G D C Em He chewed it up and swollowed it, there's nothing too be found C G D G I just stood there on one leg, looking at the ground I'm not a space traveller, but I've seen some sights I didn't finish school but I came this far alright So the next time you think someone has outwitted you Think a little bit, an idea will come through Chorus: Many times we are confronted, with a problem deep We go to bed but the problem won`t let us sleep Make up a good story and most people won`t ask why At least they won`t accuse you of tell a big lie Chorus:

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This Day Back to Index

This Day Written by Garry Kelsey on May 10, 2014 for Fran & Ric Arsenault's 50th Anniversary. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 Chords: Capo 1 C D F G We gathered there, in Kingston town To see the couple walk on down It was their day to say I do We all watched as the white dove flew Fran & Ric soon moved away They were gone until one day They moved to country mode On MacGillivary Lane they built the Panabode Chorus: How could it be fifty years today The years have passed, they flew away We all would like to wish them well Many years to come, only time will tell Instrumental: Now it's fifty years since we came to see Them walk that aisle as a family Many ups and downs they have gone through Every day, will be brand new Chorus: How could it be fifty years today The years have passed, they flew away We all would like to wish them well Many years to come, only time will tell.

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My Story In A Song Back to Index

My Story In A Song Written by - Garry Kelsey Idea on July 1, 2013, continued on June 5, 2014 and added music. Cleaned it up on December 8,2014. Finished and recorded on January 7, 2015. Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2015 © Chords - D A G Em I was born when I was young, not so long ago My Mother would not around, to see me grow Dad wasn't always there, to give me direction He did the best that he could, at least that's my recollection Chorus: D A G That's my story up to now D A G That's my story in a song Em Em7 It's not much of a legacy A D But it's not too long I have made my mistakes, all along the way But I did manage to stay out of jail, at least until today I made a living with hard work, and a little bit of luck I know I won't live forever, I might get hit by a truck Chorus: Now my time is getting short, I just live day to day And make the most of what I have, the government can pay Chorus:

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I'm Ruthless Again Back to Index

I'm Ruthless Again Written by Garry Kelsey on October 31, 2014. Made some changes and added music on November 18, 2014. Re-arranged verses and chorus on November 26, 2014. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 Capo 3 G D Em C We met one day it was just like a song I was Ruthless 'til she came along We were so happy living in sin I don't want to be Ruthless again We seemed so happy, Ruthie and I, Together, on a mountain high Then one day she closed the door And now I'm Ruthless once more Chorus: Now I'm Ruthless, I'm Ruthless, sitting here alone Wondering, wondering, listening for the phone All alone and crying, cryin' in my beer Wondering, wondering, where to go from here Instrumental Chorus: Living together but I could see She has ideas, that don't include me She left the mountain and our home Now I'm Ruthless and alone Chorus: Instrumental Ending:

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Rough Around The Edges Back to Index

Rough Around The Edges Written by Garry Kelsey. I got this idea some time ago but put together a few words on May 30, 2013. Modified on November 9 & 11, 2014. A few more changes and added music on January 17, 2015. September 23, 2019. I got up out of bed tonight to finish this song. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 Capo 2 Chord G C D Bm Am A Verse 1 G C G D My Daddy was a carpenter, he liked things straight and true G C D G He was rough around the edges but it seemed he always knew Bm Am Bm A Just what to say when I asked him what kind of girl to choose G C D G Find one that will stick with you and you will never lose Bm Am Bm A He said, "When you go looking for a girl to call mine G C D G If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine" Verse 2 The first one that I found I thought was fair of face Someone else had turned her loose and I fell into place She left me for someone else, I went looking again I found someone else but all she brought was pain 1st. Chorus: She was rough around the edges but she wanted to be free She was rough around the edges, she was not for me Daddy said "When you go looking, for a girl to call mine If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine" Verse 3 G C G D Daddy knew just what to say to make the right choice G C G D He knew just what to say, I can still hear his voice Bm Am Bm A He passed away before he met the one that I fell for G C D G She's rough around the edges, she's the one that I adore 2nd Chorus: She’s rough around the edges but I love her anyway She’s rough around the edges, I can still hear daddy say "When you go looking for a girl to call mine If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine".

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Two Old Timers Back to Index

Two Old Timers Written by Garry Kelsey on March 23, 2015 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015
Chord D Bm Em G A F# Alternate Capo 2 C Am F G Am E
Two old timers, at the country place Talkin' 'bout the old days, back when they ran the race We get together every year, to tap the maple trees In the evening by the fire, sit and shoot the breeze Last summer he cut firewood to warm his city home He never did get back to camp, to see the sap come down He always wanted family, in the cabin on the hill Look ---- around, you will see him still It's hard to say goodbye, but his race --- is run When you look at his life, I think that he has won He slipped away today, I'll never forget the pleasure Of ---- his friendship, and our times together The bagpipes lead the way, to where he will stay If you want to visit, he won't be far away The cairn by the pond, is where he wants to be To see what goes on at the camp, beneath the hemlock tree We'll miss his criticism, and how he did his thing He won't have to wait this year for flies to take wing He had some rough times in his life, and some good times too Goodbye ---- old friend, slow down, I'll catch up to you He had some rough times in his life, and some good times too Goodbye ---- old friend, slow down, I'll catch up to you

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It's Time to Go To Bed Back to Index

It's Time To Go To Bed Written by Garry Kelsey on my 71st birthday, June 12, 2014. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 I got this idea before I got up that day. Dug it out on August 26, 2015 and tried some music and rearranged the verses. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015
Chord - Capo 1 G
It is the day of my birthday, another year today You would think at my age common sense would play But alcohol and music keep me young you see Pass the beer and pour the wine and sing along with me Chorus: We partied and sang all night We've all been watered and fed We had a good time Now it's time to go to bed When this party started it started out real slow But when we got it wound up we knew where it would go We sang the songs that we all know and some a time or two No one can drive or even walk they went to bed on cue Chorus: Now it's time to go to bed, sleep will cure the overhang Try to remember, all the songs we sang The party now is over, I'll start another year, Go to bed and sleep it off, we're all out of beer Chorus: Now it's time to go to bed, sleep will cure the overhang Try to remember, all the songs we sang The party now is over, I'll start another year, Go to bed and sleep it off, we're all out of beer

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He Gave Me Music Back to Index

He Gave Me Music Written by - Garry Kelsey July 7, 2017 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2017 I seem to get song ideas in the middle of the night. This one came to me last night. Writing time today - 20 minutes. Elwin MacMunn was a crippled man, I guess he had polio as a child. He could walk with crutches and he built hand controls so he could drive a car. When I first went to see him I asked him if he knew anyone who could teach me the guitar. He said, "I could show you enough to get you started", and so for a long time I would visit him at his home and he would play fiddle tunes and tell me what chord to play and when to change. Eventually it became second nature to know when to change. I'll never forget Elwin and how he gave me a start to this thing called music. Chord: Capo 2 C Dm Em (D) Instrumental Intro: Chorus: He was just a little crippled man Played fiddle in a band He taught me how to play guitar He could barely stand When I was a young boy I bought a cheap guitar No one around to show me all the chords Elwin played fiddle so I thought that he might know Someone that knew their way around an old guitar Chorus: He sat with me for hours and played fiddle tunes I would strum along with him and listen for the cues As I learned the tunes and where to play each chord It slowly came into my mind just how to play guitar Chorus: Instrumental: Elwin is gone and I'm old myself but his music is still here In my heart and in my hands I'll take it too my grave, this music in my soul You gave me what I needed to make my life whole Chorus: Instrumental Ending: He could barely stand

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Off The Beaten Path Back to Index

Off The Beaten Path Written by Garry Kelsey on June 20, 2017. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2017; I came up with this idea as I cut the lawn today. The first part was all in my head until I finished the lawn. There is no such place as Monnasis, Kentucky. Chords: Capo 2 G Am Em (A) G D C G I was on a little trip and decided I would slip D Off the beaten path a day or two C D G Em I pulled into the town, there was no one to be found C D G So I stopped at the general store to look around Chorus: G Am G Have you ever been to Monnasis Kentucky? D It's a little country town back in the hills C D Where your neighbours are like kin G Em And your neighbours are your friend C D G And the general store sells nails and overalls The only one inside seemed to be the man in charge He said, "Howdy friend what brings you to this place?" I said, "Just dropping in to see what I can find, And spend a day or two just to unwind" Chorus: Instrumental : This town was meant for me and I could see Living here and settling down I'll be back some day, I'll be back to stay In Monassis, Kentucky, USA Chorus: Instrumental Ending:

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I've Got A Worryin' Mind Back to Index

I've Got A Worryin' Mind Written by - Garry Kelsey August 3, 2016 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016 D A D I have nothin' -- to worry about G A I've have never had to do without G D My bills are all paid and I don't look behind Em A D But I've got a worryin' mind D A D I go to work in town - every single day G A When the weekend comes - I draw my pay G D I'm looking for love - that I can't seem to find Em A D And I've got a worryin' mind Chorus: G Em D I'm living alone with my dog, my best friend G The one that I want seems just 'round the bend My dog and I sit alone every night The one that I want is just out of sight D A D I guess I'll go on - worryin' about life G A I envy the ones with a husband or a wife G D I know all this worrying - is just wasting time Em A D But I've got a worryin' mind Em A D But I've got a worryin' mind Em A D But I've got a worryin' mind.

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Mountain Chute Dam Back to Index

Mountain Chute Dam Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016 I got this idea when I realised the Mountain Chute dam would be fifty years old in 2017. I started writing down some ideas in the fall of 2015 and put some of the lyrics together on November 23 & 24, 2015. Continued working on the music on December 22, 2015. Tried another music idea today, March 30, 2016. Changed the first line and re-arranged the verses today, April 1, 2016. Changed a couple words on April 27, 2016. This may be the final version. Chord Capo 3 D Em Chorus: Fifty years on Madawaska and Centennial Lake The old timers remember for old time sake A hundred feet of concrete is what it would take To build Mountain Chute dam to hold back the lake Under Whitefish Lake, they dug graphite from the ground They dug graphite from the tunnel until that awful sound No one was down below when the mine caved in that day No more Black Donald town, everyone moved away Hydro needed power, so they came up with a plan They found a place called Mountain Chute, that's where they built a dam They flooded Black Donald and many miles up stream Centennial Lake is the lake of hydro’s dream Fifty years ago, they watched them strip the land Some of the locals, may have had a hand Hydro bought out property, said, “The river will be nice” But some of them thought, “Was the pay off worth the price” Now it's fifty years since the flood, below you cannot see The lake holds the memories of what used to be Old folks have their memories of what it was like then Try to imagine what it was a way back when Chorus: Fifty years on Madawaska and Centennial Lake The old timers remember for old time sake A hundred feet of concrete is what it would take To build Mountain Chute dam to hold back the lake

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The Mother I Never Knew Back to Index

The Mother I Never Knew Written by Garry Kelsey on September 14, 2016 I woke up this morning with this song idea in my head and sat down this afternoon to piece it together. November 16, 2017 finished and recorded Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music 2017. Bm A When I think back to that day in November Bm E I make up things that I can't remember A D A It's hard to recall my moments with you E A So long ago and so very few G D G D Your life was cut short, only thirty-nine A E A I was just a child at the time 1st. Chorus: A G A I know you didn't want to leave D E A But you were gone when I needed you Bm A I never knew you, you went away Bm E I had some memories, but they faded away A D A You are the mother I never knew E A We had some moments, but very few G D G D A mother's love I never knew A E A A mother's kisses were very few 2nd Chorus: A G A Dad went on alone and we did too D E A We grew up and wondered about you I wish that you could see how I have grown Even thou I grew up all alone Repeat 1st. Chorus:

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Snowed Out Back to Index

Snowed Out Written by Garry Kelsey on November 17, 2018 We left the portable hunt camp up at our place on Norcan Creek last Friday. We were supposed to go back next week to take it down but snow has been falling since I got home and it looks like we may not get back. There’s a foot of snow down already. I’m going to try my hand at a song with this theme. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2018 Chord - Capo 2 D E - (E) Chorus: Snowed out, can’t get back Snowed out, snow in all our tracks When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town The hunt is over and we are all unpacked We didn’t know that snow would cover up our tracks The MNR says you can only camp twenty-one days But we can’t get back…..there may be some delay We can’t get back snow will knock the whole thing down If the warden finds it I know he’ll have a frown The weather’s bad we didn’t mean to break the law All we can hope for is an early thaw Chorus: Snowed out, can’t get back Snowed out, snow in all our tracks When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town We have no excuse the weather locked us out A poor excuse, a lame one there’s no doubt Things could be a mess when we do get back from town Someone may have moved in or burned the whole place down Chorus: Snowed out, can’t get back Snowed out, snow in all our tracks When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town They may come with handcuffs if we can’t tear it down

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The Winter Blues Back to Index

The Winter Blues Written by – Garry Kelsey January 29, 2019 Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music Chord – Capo 2 D (E) At this time of year the winter gets me down Snow every day, I can’t get into town Thoughts of summer keep filling up my head I’ve got the winter blues and I’m going back to bed I can feel the sun warmer every day It won’t be long till we get out to play Camping and fishing and all that kind of stuff The winter blues have got me, I have had enough I should move south and find a warmer place My feet in the sand and sun in my face I should pack my bags but my finances are low I checked in at the bank I can’t afford to go Some people like winter for me it’s just too cold How can I enjoy what chills me to the bone I can’t wait….for summer to appear Tomorrow is Christmas and winter is still here Tag: The winter blues have got me and I’m still here

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Heavy On My Mind Back to Index

Heavy On My Mind Written by Garry Kelsey on December 30, 2018 Another middle of the night idea. Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Chords – Capo 2 D (E) Chorus: You are heavy--- on my mind I've tried to forget you but all I do is pine Inside these prison walls I find Your love is heavy on my mind I've spent the last four years in this cell Every day without you is a living hell When I'm awake or sleeping I find You are heavy on my mind Chorus: Someday I'll be free of these stone walls I'm afraid that when I'm free you won't accept my calls You always were the loving kind But today you are heavy on my mind Chorus: I shouldn't ask you to wait for me As long as I'm inside you should be free To live your life as best you can Go find yourself a better man Chorus: Tag: I'm in prison and you're heavy on mind

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The Hunt Is Over Back to Index

The Hunt Is Over Written by – Garry Kelsey February 7, 2019 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Someone had a wedding and this was on the glasses they gave out as gifts. My interpretation may be different than what was intended there. Chord: Capo 2 D (E) I have been a hunter most of my life I was hunting when I met my wife She thought it was cruel and that it was wrong If I keep on hunting I won't be married long The hunt is over, I am married now I'd like to still be hunting but I can't figure out how To make this marriage business work and have a happy life I guess my hunt is over, I have found a wife So if you like hunting, stay single for a while You can look at all those married people and smile Keep a safe distance from girls in your life Or your hunt will be over and you will have a wife The hunt is over, I am married now I'd like to still be hunting but I can't figure out how To make this marriage business work and have a happy life I guess my hunt is over, I have found a wife Really my wife doesn't mind, she likes to see me go No cooking or cleaning for a week or so She calls it male bonding it happens every year She helps me pack, she even buys my beer The hunt is over and we are happy now We have come to terms and I have found out how To make this marriage business work and not upset my wife I can keep on hunting and have a happy life

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There's Something Restless In Me Back to Index

There's Something Restless In Me Written by - Garry Kelsey I got this idea from something Debbie said on April 24, 2015. Tried some new ideas on February 7, 2019. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Chords D Em D D7 I have a wife and family G So why do I feel this way? Em A I'd rather be out with the guys than watch the kids at play D D7 With no future G And too much in my past A G D I’d better straighten out or my life won’t last Chorus: There's something restless in me, I can't seem to settle down And when I get this way no one wants me hangin' 'round I know I would be better off with my wife at home But there's something restless in me and I have to roam Instrumental: How can I shake this feeling? I'd like to change my way Maybe when I'm old and grey I won't want to play But in the meantime I’ll settle for what I do There'll be something restless in me, until my life is through Chorus: Instrumental: Chorus:

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Norman Is Silent Back to Index

Norman Is Silent Written by Garry Kelsey - Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 October 14, 2019 I had a restless night and this came into my head. Until he died my father-in-law, Gilbert Smith played a Norman guitar and sang I played with him for a few years and now his guitar is with me but seldom gets played. Added music on November 13, 2019 Chord E (E) Gilbert had a (B7) nice guitar, (A) Norman was it's (B7) name (E) We used to play to-(B7) gether (A) until he passed (B7) away (A) We'd sit in the (B7) kitchen and (A) play old country (B7) stuff (A) Willie, Hank and (B7) Lefty and (A) even Roy (B7) Accuff The music that we played were old country songs Gilbert never could read but he learned them all along I miss, those times, we had back then I'd give a lot to just go back and do it all again Chorus: (A) I took it out the (B7) other day And (A) played a (E)song (A) It came to life just (B7) like before It's been (A) silent for too (B7) long In the music room Norman seldom is heard Seasons pass and things have changed, Norman doesn't say a word The kitchen now is silent I hardly ever play But when I play old Norman he has a lot to say Chorus:

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Get It, Got It Good Back to Index

Written by - Garry Kelsey on January 24, 2019 I got this idea while watching TV one day. Added music January 30, 2019 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Chord D D G D A I don't know...why it is...I don't like to be alone D G D A D I meet someone, I seem to like, and hope they like me too D G We move in together and have a lot of fun D A Get it, got it good, G A D I think that I have won Chorus: D G Get the girl, I've got it good D A Feeling good, I knew that I would D G Buy a little cottage and settle down D A Get it, got it good, E A D No more running around D G D In the beginning I try to get the girl D G D I chase her 'till she catches me, I think I've got a pearl D G But as soon as I got her things went wrong D A The get it, got it good, G A D Didn't last too long Chorus: Get it, got it good, No it's never just that easy When it all began, she seemed to want to please me But then the cheating starts and another got in the middle I don't want to be, the one playing second fiddle Chorus: Ending: I guess I'll go back to running around.

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Ontario Chinook Back to Index

This idea came to me on January 4, 2014. This morning the temperature was -27 celsius. By 3:00 PM it had risen to -2 celsius. That's as close to an Alberta Chinook as we will ever get. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014 It's cold this morning, -27 celsius The sun came up and the wind started blowin' Straight out of the south Before long it was almost bearable So when it gets cold and you can't go outside Just wait a while and watch for that Ontario Chinook The temperature can change here by 30 degrees In less than a day either up or down One day you freeze to death, the next the ice is melting It's an awful way to exist during the winter time In an Ontario Chinook don't wait too long to go out And enjoy the balmy weather and watch the snow go down Soon enough the ice will start forming On your walks and cars and face As the temperature drops to just below What the average person can stand

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Pickin' Strawberries Back to Index

One day in July of 2019, I was helping a friend on his strawberry farm and this came about. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 (D) Pickin' strawberries, (G) on a summer day (D) Nothing better in this (Am) world (A) (D) Eat a few, (G) then fill the basket too (D) Can't imagine (A) a nicer summer day Chorus: (G) Jam and pies and berries (D) with ice cream (E) It's heaven right here on (A) earth (Pause) (D) Once a year, in early (G) summer here (G) There's nothing better (A) in this (D) world Pickin' strawberries, on a summer day There's nothing better for your soul Eat a few then fill the basket too Berries and ice cream is the goal Chorus:

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The Winner On Life's Highway Back to Index

I got this idea sometime in March 2013 but just wrote down one line. Today April 8, 2013. I wrote down a few more ideas, then I realised I was writing a song about my good friend Bob MacPherson, who passed away in November of 2012. Today is November 19, 2014 and I added a few ideas to Bob's song. Additional lyrics and an idea for music on Aril 24 & 25, 2015 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015 Chords G Chorus: You're the winner, on life's highway Rollin' on, through thick and thin You've been over, most of these roads Living your life of sin You have made it, to the finish With no failure at the end You were always close at hand When I needed you my friend Chorus: You were like my older brother You have not been gone too long You taught me a lot of things Including how to sing a song In your old age, you found salvation You left us doing things you loved to do Hanging on, to hope for life Hunting with friends and kids by you You're the winner on life's highway You've done it all my friend You will never be forgotten You are remembered at the end

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This Day Back to Index

Edited this song for June and Archie Ferguson's fiftieth wedding anniversary to make it more universal. Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016 Capo 2 C D F G We gathered there, in that little town To see the couple walk on down It was their day to say I do We all watched as the white dove flew Chorus: How could it be fifty years today The years have passed, they flew away We all would like to wish them well Many years to come, only time will tell Instrumental: Now it's fifty years since we came to see Them walk that aisle as a family Many ups and downs they have gone through Every day, will be brand new Chorus: How could it be fifty years today The years have passed, they flew away We all would like to wish them well Many years to come, only time will tell.

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Too Old To Be A Hero Back to Index

Written by Garry Kelsey August 16, 2018, Heard at the South Grenville Bluegrass Festival Added a few lines on November 17, 2018 and again on April 5, 2019 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 I used to be the one that would jump into the middle Now I'm older and I don't mind, playing second fiddle Young folks like to think that they are Superman But I'm too old --- to be a hero Heroes don't live long and often they get burned I'm a little older now and I have learned To step back and let the heroes take all the glory I already wrote my story Chorus: I'm too old to be a hero Call me a coward, I don't mind I used to be the one on top now I'm 'way behind I'm too old to be a hero I'm too old to be a hero, take me as I am I'm happy with my place in line and my state of mind As I get older I have knowledge to reveal I offer free advice some of it could be real With age comes the reality of what we can expect From our body as it ages we should get respect I don't want to be that one to take the ball and run Yes I'm too old---to be a hero Chorus: Ending: I'm too old to be a hero

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We Are Friends Back to Index

We Are Friends Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013 Started writing about Oct. 1, 20013 Added a verse on Oct. 17, 2013 This idea came to me after talking with my singer/songwriter friend Earl Mosseau recently. We have been friends for almost forty years but sometimes we don't see each other for months. We are friends when we're together and we are friends when we're apart Sometimes we don't see each other for weeks and sometimes years We are on the same wave length but our lives are so different We want to spend time together but life gets in the way How do I make time for my friend who lives so far away When we talk on the phone we have so much to say I know if we sat down and had some time to spend We would enjoy the time and wish that it would never end

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We Have A Lot To Live For Back to Index

We Have A Lot To Live For I'm not sure when this idea was written down but on January 17, 2015 I dug it out and added a bit. Completed on April 4, 2019 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Intro: We have a lot to live for Don't smile when I say this Even though we needed more We can't seem to get ahead But we still have a lot to live for Chorus: Don't cry when I say we have lost again We still have a lot to live for And I remember when We had less than we have now We were happy then and we are happy now Many times I have thought That we had won the race But it seems that just as fast as that We are in second place Chorus: Most people will live and die And never have much wealth At best if we can work and play The most important thing is health Chorus: And we still have a lot to live for

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Elwin's Old Fiddle Back to Index

Elwin's Old Fiddle Written by Garry Kelsey November 9 to November 20, 2020 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2020. Chords: Capo 2 D A C G C A7 (E) Elwin's old fiddle is coming alive In a bad crash nearly didn’t survive He started to fix it but passed away Before he could finish, before he could play He taught me guitar many years back He played this old fiddle and kept me on track A few repairs it will be like new A few new pieces and refinishing too I have it here with me now I don’t know when and I’m not sure how But with a little sweat and glue I'll get it together and just like new The crash nearly finished his fiddle friend He died before he could mend I hope to hear it played like he did It will take me back to when I was a kid I hope I do it justice and make it come alive If I do it just might survive. Elwin's old fiddle will ring like before Just like in nineteen-fifty-four Ending: Elwin's old fiddle is coming alive

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They Found A Treasure Back to Index

They Found A Treasure Written by Garry Kelsey December 25-28, 2020 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2020 Chord C Abandoned in a house for fifty years It's enough to bring a man to tears What they found would break your heart The old fiddle had fallen apart It was in a case so old and worn It's hinges were badly torn But all the pieces were still there The fiddle bow was missing all the hair 1st. Chorus: It's going to be a chore to put it back together now One piece at a time but I still may not know how In time it may look like a fiddle again Right now it looks like an old has been It used to be somebodies treasure I'm sure it brought a lot of pleasure House parties and kickin' up their heels From all the waltzs, jigs and reels 2nd. Chorus: I hope a real good fiddler sees some value now Of making music with this old fiddle, I don't know how The "Crooked Stovepipe" should be easy to play With something in pieces just the other day. Play "Maple Sugar" to the end...

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We Breath As One Back to Index

We Breath As One Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2022 Chorus: I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep I seem to breath with you as we drift away We know each others habits so well Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell We breath as one in everything we do From our first breath each day until we are through I know one day we will be apart Then one us will have a broken heart Chorus: I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep I seem to breath with you as we drift away We know each others habits so well Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell I wonder if you think the same as me Your loved one breaths and you seem to breath with them If you don’t I feel so bad for you I breath and the one I love breaths too Chorus: I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep I seem to breath with you as we drift away We know each others habits so well Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell

My Little Cabin In The Woods Back to Index

My Little Cabin In The Woods Written by Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Started writing about September 15, 2019 From an idea that my friend Dale Cooke gave me when he decided to move into a little cabin in the woods. Sadly Dale passed away on January 17, 2022. His wish came true. And yes he will always be remembered in "His little cabin in the woods". My little cabin suits me just fine Everything here is all mine Drop by and see and say hi My wish is to live here ‘till I die I'm alone I don't need a lot of space I feel right at home in this place My little cabin is where I want to be I like my company, myself and me. Chorus: I'm at home in my little cabin, in the woods Keep your ten room mansion, my cabin suits me good I now when I'm dead and gone you'll remember me In my little cabin in the woods If you drop by and I'm not here Help yourself to a beer The next time the beer will be on you Replace it with one or two You may think it's far from town There's no corner store around But when I get home it's quiet here Just frogs and crickets and my beer Chorus: I'm at home in my little cabin, in the woods Keep your ten room mansion, my cabin suits me good I now when I'm dead and gone you'll remember me In my little cabin in the woods

Running Out Of Tomorrows Back to Index

Running Out Of Tomorrows Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2022 An idea on April 16, 2022 Capo 2 Chord A (4/4) Chorus: A E G E A I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done A E G A E A When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun A E G E A I know I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time A E G E A I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine A B7 A D I started out not knowing much of life E A I thought the best thing would be a wife B7 A But then I found some other things to do D A Fishing and music to name a few B7 A D Cars, trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles E A Almost anything with wheels Chorus: I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun At least I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine Guitars and fiddles were fun to play But life and work get in the way.” But now my life is starting to slow down It's an effort just to drive into town Every day I get busy doing stuff An hour or two and then I've had enough Chorus: I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun At least I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine My Old Man A - photo video of the song I wrote for my Dad. A short video of a sleigh ride Christmas 2015 Pickled Chicken String Band at The Pine Valley Restaurant 2015 Video of Two Old Timers, A song I wrote in memory of my friend Doug Cameron Video of a song I wrote called, How Do You Like Me Now A Nice Winter Day Back to Index Deaf Mans Jig Back to Index Are We Having Fun Yet? Back to Index Home