Most of us know someone whose birthday is on Christmas Day, or just before or after. And most of us also know that can be both a blessing a curse, depending on how your family and friends balance these special days. The seasonal hustle and bustle can make it easy for others to shortchange — or even forget – a Christmas birthday.

But birthdays are not the only special occasions that occur during the Christmas season; care must be taken not to overlook weddings and anniversaries, either. Another special day that sometimes gets lost on the holiday schedule — and it only occurs a few times in our lives — is closing on a house.

REALTORs® have a front-row seat to observe all the hard work and planning that goes into selecting and purchasing a home. When the closing papers are finally signed, it usually is the culmination of months of anticipation and a huge relief for both buyers and sellers.

But even though it’s a momentous, happy occasion, closing on a house can’t really compete with Christmas, so it is understandable if some family and friends carelessly overlook this special occasion. It’s OK to use Christmas as an excuse to postpone giving a housewarming gift, but it’s not OK to ignore the responsibility. A gift that is given a week or two after closing is still a gift they will treasure — if you’ve done a good job of picking something memorable and useful.

THE Gail Spada TEAM has compiled a list of five items that you might want to consider if you find yourself in need of a housewarming gift, at Christmas or anytime during the year. On the other hand, our suggestions — and our JibJab Christmas greeting card — may even inspire a last-minute holiday gift. (Please note: The websites we’ve included are meant only to offer examples; we do not necessarily endorse these businesses or their products.)

Welcome mats

Nothing sets the tone for visitors better than a welcome mat. From funny to formal, your guests will get a step up on these greeters. (We especially love the ones about pets!)

Seasonal door wreaths

A nice seasonal or holiday wreath hanging on the front door practically screams “Welcome.” They’re readily available in florals and fabrics for most holidays, including Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, July 4th, Easter and St. Patrick’s Day.

Personalized planters and crocks

These gifts are decorative, useful and give you the opportunity to customize a message or memory for the new homeowners. Their versatility alone beg shoppers to give them a good look.

A movie camera

A movie camera will encourage the happy homeowners to record new memories in their new digs. But the camera also can serve a very utilitarian purposes: Making a record of the move-in. Documenting the interior decorating. And making a record of valuables, appliances and electronics will please your homeowner’s insurance agent if any items become lost, damaged or stolen. (The Flip MinoHD video camera we’re offering as the grand prize for our TEAM Christmas Photo Contest would be an ideal housewarming gift.)

Books and movies

This is a can’t-miss option if you are familiar with the new homeowners’ hobbies and interests. Golf, cooking, boating, sewing, home repairs, gardening. The selections are limitless. But after you have selected the right topic, your goal should be to choose a book that is timeless. You always want your housewarming gift to have a very long shelf life.

Whatever you decide, please take time to make a thoughtful choice. And please remember: A housewarming gift should be every bit as meaningful as one you give at Christmas or for a birthday.