Saturday was a really emotional day. We attended the memorial service for Jasmine, her Aunt Caroline and her Grandmother Pam.
Jasmine's mother Debbie was just released from the hospital the day before. Debbie got up out of her wheel chair (while wearing a halo due to her serious neck injuries sustained in the bus accident) and spoke about Jasmine, Carolyn and Pam from the pulpit. We were all amazed at her strength. She is one amazing lady. Jasmine's brother Alfred also spoke. As he began to break down, both his parents Debbie & Sabre walked back up to support him. After the service, they released doves - WOW - I'd never seen that before -- it was amazing.
Then we headed towards the cemetery for the graveside service. We were supposed to have our headlights and flashers on for the police escort. Well we lost the procession and ended up getting there way ahead of the rest. Most of us were pretty strong during the service up until Debbie scattered earth over Jasmine's resting place. She began to weep as did the rest of us.
Jasmine Bowden, the only
daughter from the union of Deborah L. Bowden and Sabre J. Bowden, was born on July 21, 1991 in Fairfield, CA. Jasmine was a bright and beautiful 16 year old who was loved by all. She was a unique young lady, with values of an adult. Jasmine, at a young age, began Karate, in which resulted in her obtaining a black belt. She grew up with 2 brothers, Alfred and Kenny Bowden, whom were all involved in sports. Jasmine loved the game of basketball and leading her high school marching band, "The Deer Valley Skyhawks". In her short time on this earth, Jasmine touched more hearts than one could imagine. She was a non-judgmental, tender hearted, and amazing young woman, who since elementary school carried a 4.0 and higher GPA. On Monday, January 7, 2008, Jasmine went to be with the Lord and in her last breath, sweetly stated "I have to go now, my Grandma needs me". A life cut far too short, Jasmine closed her eyes in death. Sadly left behind to mourn her loss are her parents Debbie and Sabre Bowden, her brothers Alfred and Kenny, her paternal grandparents Mary and Lawrence Bowden, and her maternal great grandmother Dorothy D. Reevers, as well as an aunt Kym Jones, 3 uncles Carl, Dimitri and Courtney Bowden. She too leaves behind several cousins and a great amount of friends who will forever miss her. Funeral service will be at 11 am on Saturday, March 8, 2008, with visitation from 10 to 11 am at the Community Church of Joy, 21000 N. 75th Ave., Glendale, AZ. To know Jasmine was to know a living angel. Her smile that was captivating and a spirit that shined bright like the stars at night. Jasmine's zest for life was truly amazing and she shined in everything she did. Rest in Peace Jazzy, and thank you for blessing us with your presence. You will forever be in our thoughts.
Friday night, the kids & I saw the movie '21'. There was a great line mentioning Google -- I'm pretty sure we laughed more than anyone else in the theatre. 
Saturday, John & I played in a golf tournament to benefit the Telluride Bus Accident. Our friend, Carole, set it up @ Great Eagle in Surprise. We bought a ton of raffle tickets --- but, as usual Corey won most of the prizes.
Sunday, Camrie, Danielle & I went to the last day of the Renaissance Festival. Traffic sucked in both directions because some brilliant person thought it was a good idea to have a golf tourney 4 miles away from the Ren Fest. 
