Onward into the Holidays!

Written on December 20, 2023.

Hello Onward Organizing Family!

As the festive season wraps its arms around us, let’s dive into the magic of December with some clutter-free gifting ideas, a heartwarming recipe, and fun traditions to welcome the New Year!

‘Tis the season of joy, and boy, have we been reveling in it! From festive client soirées to Christmas pop-ups, white elephant gift exchanges, and even the unexpected joy of a baby goat stealing the show at the BHNA holiday bash – our past week has been nothing short of magical.

I’m absolutely smitten with the holiday spirit that’s taken over, and witnessing everyone embrace it has been a highlight for me.

As we wrap up the year, putting the finishing touches on a few fabulous organizing projects, I can hardly contain my excitement for what lies ahead.

Drumroll, please! 🥁 Onward Organizing is teaming up with the fantastic folks at Avid Organizing to bring you the crème de la crème of organizational magic. We’ve had a blast collaborating on projects throughout the year, and we figured, why not join forces to help you kick off the new year in style and organization?

Reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve had together, there’s so much to be thankful for. I’m over the moon about the opportunity to continue working with you and your families, ensuring that your homes are not just organized but perfectly tailored to suit your unique lifestyles.

Here’s to a year filled with order, joy, and a sprinkle of organizational fairy dust! ✨

Let’s make 2024 the most organized and fabulous year yet!

Warmest wishes,

Edna

OUR SERVICES

Clutter-Free Gift Giving

In the spirit of giving, let’s explore some clutter-free gift ideas that promise a thoughtful, memorable, and potentially awesome experience:

1. Escape

3. Murder Mystery Dinner

4. Whiskey or Cocktail tour

5. Denver Wine Walking Tour r

6. For the outdoors loving people

7. For the Denver-History lover

8. For the extreme sports lover

9. For the quirky gift, axe throwing

10. Not your everyday Spa Day

“As we start a new year, let’s discard what weighs us down, keep what sparks joy, and organize our lives with

renewed purpose.” – Unknown

MEXICAN HOT CHOCOLATE

This was a hard task to pick a recipe to share since it is by far one of my favorite holidays. Our family goes all out and my mom makes all of our favorites so you can see my dilemma.

A favorite holiday staple is Mexican Hot Chocolate. The combination of the rich chocolate, spiced flavors, and the warmth it provides makes it a delightful treat. Since I’ll be staying in Colorado during the holidays this year sipping on a cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate sounds like the ideal way to embrace another family tradition this winter season.

Whether it’s a comforting start to my day or a soothing way to wind down, Mexican Hot Chocolate has a special place in my heart, especially when accompanied by the sweet touch of pan dulce. It’s these cherished moments and flavors that make the holidays truly special. Cheers to warm cups of Mexican Hot Chocolate and the joy they bring to your holiday season!

Ingredients:

2 cups whole milk
2 ounces Mexican chocolate (such as Ibarra or Abuelita-our favorite), chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Be careful not to boil it; you just want it to be hot.

Once the milk is hot, add the chopped Mexican chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted into the milk.

Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the chocolate-milk mixture. Adjust the sugar to your taste preference. Continue stirring until everything is well combined.

Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!

NEW YEAR’S EVE TRADITIONS

New Year’s is hands down my favorite holiday. New beginnings and a lot to celebrate. Not to mention I love a great sequin dress! Whether it’s counting down at some fancy party or relaxing on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn I always make time to celebrate with a few traditions that keep me dreaming and hopeful going into the new year. Hope these help you find some joy in what’s to come!

LET THEM EAT…GRAPES! This tradition involves eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, with each grape representing a month of the coming year. As the clock counts down to midnight, people eat one grape with each chime of the clock, making a wish for each month.

A STROLL AROUND THE BLOCK WITH YOUR SUITCASE. Now, it’s the first year I’m trying this one but I AM ready to TRAVEL. The tradition is you take your suitcase and walk around the block at midnight. This symbolizes your desire for travel and new horizons into the new year. Bring it on!

ORGANIZING, just kidding but cleaning my apartment is a MUST going into the new year. You don’t have to organize but decluttering a drawer or closet and getting rid of things that no longer serve you is a great way to help you appreciate the past year. Don’t forget to open a few windows to let out the old energy from your home and welcome the new year. I also love to sage up my space, light a few candles, turn on some music and make turn cleaning into a whole vibe.

WEAR RED UNDERWEAR INTO THE NEW YEAR. The tradition is to wear red underwear into the New Year for good luck and prosperity. The red signifies love, so to keep love or to find love.

Here’s to new beginnings, adventure, growth, and endless possibilities!

As we say goodbye to another year and welcome new possibilities, remember that an organized space paves the way for an organized mind. Here’s to a festive season filled with joy, love, and a little bit of organizing magic!

Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!