Finding my way - part 2

[Meghan]

Question: H's birthday will be when he's away (first time for that). We don't normally do cards when we're together on the day itself, but clearly we won't be this year.

Do I send a card care of his family? If so, can I assume I should aim for something light and funny, since that's how we'd normally roll?

Also, do I call him to wish him a happy birthday, but just try to keep it short and sweet?

Since he feels ignored I don't want to just bypass the day, but I don't know what the best approach is for this since I'm trying to keep the contact limited.