Social Deadlines

Sending a Birthday Card or Gift 

Aim to: Get it there a few days before or after the birthday. Try to be timely with gifts for kids, who may be less understanding than adults about late gifts.
If you are late: Send the gift anyway. In your card, write something like "It took a lot longer than I thought to find the perfect present," suggests Hopkins.
Tip: When you jot down a birthday on your calendar, make a note to send the card or gift five days before, or set the alarm on your PDA.

Giving a Housewarming Gift

Aim to: Bring a gift the first time you're invited over, or send one when you receive the change-of-address mailing. If you know there will be a housewarming, you can wait to deliver your gift then.
If you are late: Don't worry about it. "Housewarming gifts are not obligatory," Post says.
Tip: "Don't give someone a gift before she moves," Post says. "That's one more thing she'll have to pack."