MagicMinder.com addresses this problem simply but effectively by sending you random but regular email reminders. All you need to do is to forward someone's email to your MagicMinder address or to enter a list of names of people whom you would like to stay in touch with. You can also import names from Outlook, Eudora or Palm Desktop address books or install a button in your QuickLaunch area to quickly create a reminder.

Randomness works because it's

• Easy: There's no need to pick reminder dates or repeat intervals. Just enter or import a list of names.
  
• Natural: It would be strange to touch base, say, every first of the month. Random reminders emulate a more natural "out of the blue" effect.
  
• Serendipitous: Unexpected reminders will often seem magically meaningful, motivating you to act on them.