One year ago today I received an awful phone call, the kind of phone call that happens in movies but never in real life. One of my closest girlfriends had been in a tragic car accident and her oldest son Calvin was dead. He was almost 14. It hurts now even thinking about it. It’s not one of those things you ever really get over, you just keep on going about life anyway.
So today’s post is all about Calvin. What an amazing kid he was, and what a remarkable woman he has for a mother. I’m very lucky to count her as one of my nearest and dearest friends.
We miss you Calvin.
xoxo
Please don’t ever, EVER get complacent about seat belts or car seats. Don’t let your babies ride on your lap while you run to the grocery store or to pick up carpool; life can change in an instant.
My friend is one of many parents participating in a new campaign for the state of Utah called Zero Fatalities which is helping to educate drivers about preventable dangers on the road. Show it to your teenagers, tell your friends.
Allison
Hello there! I'm Allison Czarnecki, founder + editor of Petit Elefant, a blog all about style on a budget for every part of your life: style / home / travel / family. I do a lot of how-to beauty + style tutorials, travel posts, easy recipes, home remodel projects, and cool DIY crafts you totally want to try. I'm super happily married (to a hot Polish immigrant) and am the mother of two kids, a daughter and son, all of whom are featured here on the regular. We live in the country but we're a little bit rock + roll. Welcome!
I'm so sorry for your loss. We lost a friend several years ago in a car accident. She wasn't wearing a seat belt, so the outcome might have been different. Any time I'm tempted to not wear my seat belt I think of Elise and I put it on.
Thinking of you and your friend today.
Thanks for the beautiful post and for being such a good friend. I just miss him a lot, but we have so many good memories and I'm just trying to remember those. And for everyone else, make sure your kids keep their seatbelts on while you're driving.
I was stunned to read this post. And yes I cried for Calvin and his family.
So terribly sad. And greif is price we pay for true love….
My prayers are with you, his family and Calvin himself.
Calvin and my daughter were the same age at SFJH. He was close friends with my best friends son (TJ). The kids at school still talk about Calvin alot, and he is missed in that friend circle. My heart and prayers continue to be with his family.
Thanks for the beautiful post. It's hard to believe it's already been a year. I like the comment about seat belts because we all need to be reminded.
Sally,
I hate to say anything because then people can start playing the blame game. But if one person is reminded and a death is prevented, it's worth it.
p.s. I can't believe it's been a year either-strange.
Thanks for sharing this post. It was beautiful. It means a lot to me since I know how many people you reach with Petit Elefant. Thanks Ali, we all miss him.
Very sad. One of my biggest fears as a parent is getting into a car accident while my son is in the car. I work in law enforcement and see really bad car accidents more than anything. It's one of the reasons why I hide in my house on my days off. With people talking on their cellphone, drunk driving, and distractions, it's a scary place out there on the road.
so so sad. What a sweet boy. Thank you for this reminder, Allison, I needed it.
I can't even fathom this… My heart aches for you all.
So, so sad. Hopefully, what comes of this awful loss, is with one family's tragedy, others will learn.
A lovely tribute. The loss of young life is so sad. My thoughts are with you and Calvin's family.
Leadia
I dropped by to share our Award Day from "A Modern Day Ricky & Lucy" with you but now I'm all sad and teary. I'm so sorry for this family's loss. I'll keep you all in my thoughts today.
I am so sorry for your loss.
hugs.
Thank you for the beautiful words about Calvin. Even after a year the tears are flowing for the loss our family feels still. Thank you for supporting Donna and helping her remember the memories which keeps Calvin alive in our hearts.
What a sweet post. I can't imagine losing a loved one – let alone one of my own children! My thoughts are with you and your dear friend Donna.
I am a seat belt paranoya – huge promoter of wearing the safety devices. Thank you for promoting it!
oh no, that is so tragic. thank you for this beautiful tribute, for reminding people how precious life is.
i can't even fathom loosing a child. my heart goes out to your friend.