Have you ever sent someone a western Christmas card? Have you ever even thought of it? Many folks have never even heard of them. Sometimes they just buy a bunch of Christmas cards without putting a lot of thoughts into it. They send them to their friends and relatives just because it's the common thing to do during the holidays and is expected of them. They pay little attention to the pictures or the words inside. Well, don't feel too bad if you're one of those people for I've been guilty of doing the same myself.

The holidays are a busy time and it's understandable that sometimes you're pressed for time and tend to get less personal. However, I believe it's important to be more personal with those that you're close with. I also like to be unique and different. Sending western Christmas cards to those you care about is a way to add a unique touch to your holiday greetings. I did that last year and those that received them were delightfully surprised.

Most of the Christmas cards you see are based on the European or northern hemispheric tradition and views of the holiday. You see scenes of evergreen trees covered with white snow, Santa Claus wearing his thick red coat, snowmen, reindeer, and kids playing in winter wonderland. However, Christmas is celebrated all over the world, including in places that don't have snow in December. It's hard for some northerners to imagine that. I live in the southern US and someone from the north once said, "How can you celebrate Christmas when it's warm?" By sending western Christmas cards you remind these good folks that the holiday spirit is universal.

So, what do western Christmas cards look like? Most of them have a variety of southwestern themes such as borders with unique designs, and dusty backgrounds. The pictures also reflect the sceneries and culture of the region like lighted cacti with ornaments, a cowboy Santa, and pueblos decorated with Christmas lights.

I'm sure other regions or the world have their own unique Christmas cards. If you happen to live in one, count your lucky stars. Otherwise, you can find some of those greeting cards online. Who wants to get the plain and boring holiday cards year after year? So, send something different that will create a longer lasting memory of the festive season.