10 Reasons Why Clyde is Cool

Ok, it was Dad's birthday yesterday and here is my new and improved list of Top Ten reasons why "Clyde is Cool" (a la David Letterman, didn't we do this last year?)

10. Growing up our Dad Clyde would regularly tip over a glass of water at the dinner table and the irony of life is that I have inherited this skill

9. Whenever Clyde forgets something you can always tell because about 5 to 10 minutes after you've left your previous place of destination he will snap his finger and that is our signal to ask "ok Dad, what did you forget?" I've inherited this practice as well

8. Clyde is a very prepared guy, especially when it comes to informational binders and preparing lessons or talks. I have received and created a few "Clyde Binders" and "Clyde Lessons/Talks" in my short 28 years of life. In fact I still have many binders and lessons/talks he gave me.

7. Clyde is a skilled lawn technician, and if you have ever seen a nicer lawn than Dad has maintained, it is probably taken care of by at least 10 or more illegal immigrants to attain the high standard of quality of Clyde the perfect lawn technician

6. Clyde has no middle name or initial. He's a simple guy on the surface, but behind that simple and to the point name, there are layers of complexity, skill and depth of character

5. Clyde is a died in the wool go-getter of a salesman although he has mellowed in recent years.

4. Of all the traits I inherited from Clyde, I think the craving for cookies is probably my least favorite.

3. Our Dad is a unique guy and he has taught us all that you don't really need to be rich to feel like a high roller, e.g. you can buy life vests and water skis and gear, even if you don't own a boat. You can keep your car perfectly vacuumed and clean and "protect your investment" whether you drive a lexus or a hyundai.

2. I'll never forget one Christmas when I was quite young and I was very distressed that I might not get a sega game system, but thanks to Clyde and his connections with folks at the North Pole, he could almost 100% guarantee me that I would get the gift I sought.

1. And last but not least, Clyde is a great example of a faithful and loving husband and father and in general he is a "good soldier" type of church member, faithfully performing his duties without needing any praise and without ever slackening his stride, and I think this is one of main reasons all us guys in the family have turned out so well, because we all look up to and admire the one, the only "The Clyde"...happy birthday Dad!

Love,
Jared, Holly and Isabella