Not in 3.5, but in 5.0, there is Lv8 Evo Telepathy. Lasts 24 hours but only within one plane and shares both words and images.
The spell Julia is using seems to be something like that, made easier by piggibacking on an existing magical bond.
In general, if a spell is outright better, it should be higher level, cost more to cast or have lengthened casting time.
Sending:
Spell Level: Cleric 4, Sorcerer/Wizard 5
Components: SMV (copper wire)
Casting time: 10min
Duration: 25 words (twice)
Julia's 'Sending':
Spell Level:Wizard <5
Components: unknown (Blood oath shared by caster and target, not consumed)
Casting time: unknown
Duration: >1 round
It's level is lower, and duration is longer. We know that it requires the caster and target to share a blood oath. There may be other caveats, such as other components or longer casting time.
Overall, I suspect that removing the Blood Oath requirement will increase the spell's level over 5.
Another funny thing. The description of Sending says nothing about sending your image (only about the 25 words), but says that the recipient recognises you. If you remember from previous page, Roy thought it was his dad. So this spell is clearly not sending in it's functionality.