Blended…like a MOTHA (Jas)
Jasmine
Have you ever met someone and wondered how in the world they were so freaking nice? That’s how I feel about Jas. This woman is literally one of the most kindhearted women you’ll ever met. She’s also a singer, wife and mother of 3, but you’d never guess she started out as a party of 2 with her plus one being her oldest daughter. So of course for part 2 of Blended…like a MOTHA, I wanted to know her story. Because 18 years later she and her husband are still looking at each other with those heart eyes and the kids ain’t never give half sibling vibes.
It’s a Girl- Jas wasn’t pressed for motherhood, she definitely didn’t think she would have married Mike 18 years ago. But this friendly loner accepted what God laid in her lap. At times it was giving “You’re in the hood now baby” but she still chose to let Him have his way.
Girl Meets Boy- Jas was really giving Mike the feel but he was good to play the long game. Eventually, after focusing on herself, and acknowledging her worth, she said YES!
Wild Wild West- If you aren’t new to this co-parenting life you know the waters can get very treacherous. The idea of the parents and bonus parents at the game with their matching jerseys is cute in theory but getting there (if that’s even your grace) can make you want to take some actions that could land you in adult time-out. I asked Jas what navigating through this part of her story was like.
Redo Anyone- Being on the other side of a situation can often lead to reflection. I wanted to know the “what ifs” in Jasmin’s mind. The thing I love is that she has very few regrets!
Jas’s Advice- Jasmin’s transition from a young woman to having an instant family happened rapidly. A constant throughout our conversation was having grace and her acceptance that her story unfolded this way for a reason. Here’s some of what she learned and is learning.
For Talia and Mya- Growing up with your child is HARD, they see the best and the worst parts of you. The parts that no one else sees. The oldest especially, is the guinea pig. Here are a few words for her girls now that they are old enough to understand a bit more.
Blended…like a MOTHA- You know the drill by now. But in case you don’t, here is what it means to Jasmin to Blend…like a MOTHA. Fair warning some of this may gather you up!
I appreciate Jas's transparency, especially when you aren’t sure who will hear your story. If you got nothing else from her, I hope you learned to practice acceptance and grace. To focus on being whole first and how keeping God at the center can help you navigate the ghetto. Also if an attractive man takes your seat at work, mess his desk up-he’ll like it and ask you to marry him. Until next time….
I love you, mean it- Ja’Nelle
Follow Jasmine at @mrsjasminsmith for bite-sized encouragement and check out her single “Have Your Way” on all streaming platforms.
