So, here’s the thing. . . I thought 2019 would be different. I thought this would be the year that I finally got myself into gear and organised a birthday party.

Let me get this out of the way, up front. It wasn’t and I failed.

To tell the truth, I’m not really big on parties. Especially not ones that involve celebrating yours truly. In fact, the last birthday party that I can clearly remember hosting was my 16th (and let’s be honest, even then it was really my parents doing all the hard work. . . wasn’t it?)

For some reason, the thought of bringing all the people I love together in one spot stresses me out. I mean, what if they don’t like each other? What if everyone has a terrible time and it’s all my fault? What if I throw a party and I end up traumatising the poor guests by overzealously trying to ensure that neither of the above possibilities comes to fruition?

Welcome to the terrifying realms of my overthinking mind.

But I digress. . . that’s not why I failed to throw a birthday party this year. Two months ago, my husband lost his job and we just couldn’t justify the expense in our current financial situation. That’s why I’m so thankful that fundraising for Baptist World Aid projects doesn’t need to involve meticulous event planning or extraordinary expense. Sometimes, it can be as simple as deciding to donate your birthday and filling out a quick online form to create a fundraising webpage.

Which is exactly what I did.

And so, whether you’re an overthinker like me. . . or my complete opposite who thrives when throwing parties for their loved ones to enjoy, I have this challenge for you: why not donate your birthday this year and raise funds to support work you’re passionate about?