by Peggy Lindgren

Created on: December 17, 2011   Last Updated: December 20, 2011

This time of year is the perfect time to extend holiday greetings across the miles.  Taking some time out of your busy schedule to remember those who have touched your life in some way is part of the holiday spirit.  Regardless of your religious background or beliefs, everyone feels the thrill of the season and appreciate hearing from longtime family and friends.

~Cards

The traditional holiday cards are a simple, yet perfect way to send your wishes.  Choose your cards with care and the message can be an appropriate way to express your sentiments.  Enclose a recent picture of your family and write a little note and you have completed your greeting.  You can even create your own special ecard or send a photo card if you choose to simplify it even more. 

 ~Holiday letter

Another way to send a greeting is to purchase a package of holiday paper and matching envelopes.  Make a few notes of the highlight of your year and type out a holiday letter.  This is an ideal way to bring your friends and family up to date on the great happenings of the past year.  Keep this an upbeat letter, sharing happy news.  Sad news should be sent at another time.  Your family and friends enjoy hearing about your children, your pets and your travel experiences. 

If you know for a fact they have fallen on hard times this past year, be sensitive about the information your include.  Keep it light hearted and simple. 

~Contact via Internet

Never underestimate the power of the Internet.  Email may be a less desirable way to communicate because it tends take less effort on the senders’ part.  However, if time has gotten away from you, it is better to send an email then to forget them altogether. 

If you are on Facebook or another social network, you can message them as well.  You can send them a personal message rather then share it with your entire group.  This tends to be more personal and you can express yourself openly.  Using the Internet has its convenience and yet if time allows, a more personal contact is favorable.

~Phone call

A special phone call to your family and friends is a wonderful and appropriate way to send holiday wishes.  They will appreciate hearing your voice and the surprise of the call.

~Care packages/gifts

Sending a care package is always appreciated.  If your loved one is in the military, this is a great way to send your wishes.  Small, practical necessities are always appreciated.  Sending a gift across the miles is another way to express your care for your friends or family member.  A small, personal gift is enough to show you were thinking of them. 

Remember that the holidays are a time of spreading goodwill and cheer.  The greatest gift of all is a sincere one.  When you remember someone across the miles it shows you have taken the time and consideration to do so.  You can brighten their holiday with any of these ideas.  The important thing is to be tasteful and genuine in your wish. 

A wish sent from the heart, is the best wish of all.

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