The “honk” story…

A lot of people don’t know why I am so thrilled when someone drives past my house and honks. Well, I thought I’d give a little insight into my obsession…

My son had a lot of friends. His wing span spread several states we realized after he died. But before that fateful night, whenever someone drove past the house and honked, we would tell Cody that his friends just drove by. When he died, I feared those honks would stop.

To my amazement, it became an iconic situation. The days that followed August 20, 2017, it seemed we were outside in front of our house more than we were inside the house. I think it was because we didn’t all fit inside! There were a lot of people here, and for that, I am grateful!! But because we were all outside, and Cody so well known around town, people were honking every time they drove by. Again, my husband and I felt the presence of Cody’s friends in those honks, not to mention the love of our friends and neighbors. So, we asked that they continue on. The first year, it was great and constant. This second year, I haven’t heard as many. Now, that could be because we were not outside as much and my house is brick, but I have missed those honks.

Lately, as the weather gets warmer and I have an open window, I have been hearing them. A couple of his friends sent me messages that they drove by and honked! I love it!! Keep that going!! I feel like putting up a sign that says “Honk if you miss Cody!” I would need to get a recorder so I could replay them. At least, I hope that would be the case. Guess I am needing a little confirmation that he is still missed and present in the hearts and minds of others. Those honks validate that for me!!

So, if you are ever driving past the house, whether you think we are home, sleeping, whatever, sound the horns!! It really helps me! Rainbows and honks!! Who knew? These things that play a huge part in feeling his presence, especially since I don’t have his spittoon bottles, laundry, and his kitchen mess!! A mother needs what a mother needs!!

Keep it going! Make it loud! Those with stacks, feel free! I miss that kid every day!! And, as always, I cry because he is gone, but I smile because he was here!!

#honkifyoulovesomeone #lifeisshortnottosmile #rainbowsandhonks

Author: Christina Herold Trueblood

My name is Christina Trueblood. I am married and live in Central Illinois and am the mother of two, a daughter and son. Unfortunately, I lost my son in August 2017 in a single vehicle truck accident a couple of miles from our home. He was 24. I have documented some of my story on Facebook over this first year and have been encouraged to start a blog. I hope to help other families who have gone through loss and struggle to make any sense of it. My faith has kept me going and I believe one day, we will meet those loved ones we have lost again and it will be as if no time has passed. Until then, I want to honor their lives and know they left a mark on my life! Please follow me and share your stories. View all posts by Christina Herold Trueblood