25 Days of Great Gifting* Day 2

Lindley Arnoldy loves to give. She recently co-chaired Houston’s Catwalk for A Cure benefitting the Amschwand Sarcoma Cancer Foundation and sits on the steering committee for the Houston Symphony’s Young Associate’s Council. Giving her time is a passion and giving gifts — well, she’s good a that too. Here the stylish Lindley shares her list of great gifts to give and receive (hint, hint, to the hubby) this holiday.

What’s your motto for the holidays?
As I get older, I find it so much more fun to give than to receive. I love picking out unique things for my husband, in the hopes of surprising him each year. It’s about the process, really, and being mindful of others.

What are your favorite holiday traditions?
Listening to the Mariah Carey (I know…) and Soul Christmas albums, decorating the tree and cooking in, a trip to Arnie’s in the Heights with my mom for the best ribbon in town, church on Christmas Eve with my family, driving around to peruse the Christmas lights with my brother and picking up Jose’s dip from Molina’s every year for our Christmas Eve get together.

What is the worst gift someone has given you?
It truly is the thought that counts. That being said, you can always tell when someone has not put a lot of thought into something. I saw a great quote recently – “Nothing says I don’t care like a scented candle”. I actually love a good scented candle but you get the drift.

Who is the hardest person to shop for each year?
My father in law. He is so generous, and I can never find a good enough gift to properly express my gratitude for all that he does. I have the same dilemma with my mother.