How to Manage Multiple Nieces' and Nephews' Birthday Gifts

You've got 26 nieces and nephews and only 24 hours in a day. How are you going to remember all their birthdays in time to get a card in the mail? It's not as difficult as you think, if you've got a plan.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• List of birthdays
• Reminder system
• Stash of cards and cash
• Stamps

1. Make the list. Call, email or grab your siblings or their spouses at the next family gathering and nail down their children's birthdays.
2. Include the birth year. That way, your greetings will be more specific: "Happy 9th Birthday" instead of a more generic message.
3. Note these birthdays in your email reminders or other system or put them on your calendar. If it's a physical calendar, be sure it's one you check frequently. For birthdays that fall in the first few days of a month, note them near the end of the previous month, so you won't miss getting a card into the mail.
4. Stock up on cards. Buy ahead a variety of cards for different ages and interests.
5. Stash the cash. Get a wad of $5 and $10 bills. Those under 5 will be thrilled with $5. Increase the amount to $10 for older kids and $15 for teens if your budget allows it.
6. Get your cards ready. Each month, pull out the cards for that month's birthdays. Address, enclose cash, and note in pencil on the envelope the must-mail-by date. Erase it before putting it in the mailbox.
7. Bask in the gratitude. Enjoy the thank-yous you'll get and the satisfaction of remembering each of these very special people on their special day.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to write a personal note in each card. Reminisce about a special time together or comment on a recent milestone.
• Send an e-card if you've forgotten to mail a card. Follow up with a belated card and the cash.