Sorry I'm washing my hair

Almost every day, I wake to new notifications on Facebook, adding me to a new group, an online party or an actual party.

I'm not exaggerating. It's happening a lot. I'm a member of 4 different Jamberry groups. Have 'been' to 6 or 7 online Younique parties. 2 different Lipsense groups, 3 Tupperware groups. 2 Intimo groups. I have invitations to Lorraine Lea Linen parties. Physical Tupperware parties. I have been Jeunessed, Mary Kayed, Thermomixed, Avoned, Plexused, Arbonned and Neriumed.

If there is a party plan or MLM around, I've been invited to like, share or try it.

I used to get these invites and cringe. Wonder which excuse I could use to get out of them. Find my most diplomatic declination. "Sorry Sally I'm washing my hair!" is not a valid excuse, especially when you hear "oh no darl, you don't have to come, just jump online in your jarmies!"

I almost always say yes to these events. I tell people that "yeah, sure, I'll come", but have just not turned up on many occasions. I have laid on my couch and sent a text at 7pm telling people "sorry for the late notice, but I just can't get away". That's ok though yeah? It's just another 'party'. Well, actually No.

I've held parties where people decide at the last minute not to come. It feels like sh*t. I've made dips and snacks. (Ok that's a lie - I bought them). I've gotten my kids organised early to get into bed and be quiet. I've gotten out as many matching glasses as I can find so it looks like I've got my sh*t together. The person has lugged their kit out, gotten out of their clothes that are probably spattered in their kids lunch. They are there to try to make a living. To help make ends meet.

Dont feel like you have to have a party. You can say no! If you know you aren't going to get people there, tell them so. Yes some people are pushy, but most will be grateful that their precious time isn't wasted.

Same goes with people trying to sell you their products. You don't have to buy to support your friends. You can acknowledge their business or venture with kind words and encouragement.

Most of these friends are women like us. Women trying to make some cash. To pay some bills. Buy some food. Take the pressure off the family budget. They have found a way to work that is more family friendly.

Most of the time they need to start their business using their 'warm market'. This is you. Their family and friends. No you may not need a new bra or weight loss product. You may already have a Thermomix or you aren't interested in one. But by sharing and liking your friends posts, you can help them reach people that do.

Let's support these ladies that are trying to create a better life for themselves. Pat them on the back. Rejoice in their advances. Build each other up and be proud of a sista.

Claire x
*DISCLAIMER - I am slightly inebriated from a long overdue catch up with my mothers group friends. If this post has spelling or grammar mistakes, or makes absolutely no friggin sense at all, this is why...