Zone 3 involves more than just bins and labels. This zone is called "easy weeknight meals" and, although it DOES suggest bins, the bigger picture is creating a habit of weekly meal planning.

Once you have a meal plan in place, this zone can make your life and meal times simple. Fill up 7 baskets with the non-frozen or fridgerated items for each meal (pre-measured pasta or rice, sauces, etc), the recipe you're using, and anything else you will need for that meal. Use binder clips and index cards to label each bin either with the meal name or the day of the week it's meant for. Or both! Whatever your heart desires.

Now, what if you are stuck on the idea of meal planning? I have a couple of suggestions for you.

#1. Make a list of every meal your family likes. Then pick a few for the week, buy the supplies to make them and voila! Ready to eat.

#2. I highly recommend THIS eBook. It's called Meal Time, On Time - and it is fantastic. It outlines the steps to creating a great meal plan, and how to do freezer cooking. It's worth the money! (Oh, did I mention there's delicious recipes in there too?!)