Farewell to a friend...

A photo you hope you never have to take...

your child saying goodbye to another child...

However, this is a picture I will cherish forever.  Rowan loved Jalene, he is stronger for having known her, and a more loving, faith-filled boy for having dealt with her death.  We have no regrets, only wonderful memories.  

Rowan got dressed up in his favorite suit and bow tie for her service tonight, and made sure he had on his "Team Jalene Forever" button...

and his Team Jalene bracelet.

The Church was so beautiful.  

It was a true Celebration of Jalene's life.

A Frozen Wonderland, fit for a princess...

complete with a one-of-a-kind Frozen themed casket, with Olaf smiling inside.

Rowan thought it was beautiful and perfect.

The most moving part of the service was having the honor guards from the Sheriff's Department stand watch over her casket the entire service, changing guard periodically.  So powerful to witness.  A true honor for a very worthy little girl, Jr. Deputy Jalene Estella Salinas.

They  presented her parents with a flag and certificate, just like they would signify the end of watch of any deputy.  A true honor.

Rowan just loves Jalene's Grandma and Grandpa, and was blessed to sit by them during the service.  

and her great grandma too...

Rowan had a special gift for Jalene's Mommy...

A purple butterfly pendant...

Inscribed with a heart and "Jalene".

We love you Jen.

and all of your family.

There were so many loving family members and friends there tonight, a real tribute to the lives Jalene touched.

Before leaving, The Guardians of the Children wanted to take a picture with Rowan too.  What an amazing group of Godly people, doing good in this world.

  We were truly blessed to be present at this beautiful service, and honored to call Jalene and her family our friends.

  

Farewell my friend...

I'll see you in my dreams, until we meet in Heaven again.

Love, your friend Rowan

(Rowan has one more very special thing to share about tonight, but he wants to tell Jalene's family about it first.  Once he has, I can post about it here.)