40-Day Christmas Challenge | Day 13 • Double Up and Plan Ahead

We’re nearly a third of the way through the challenge. Can you believe it? If you’ve been following along, give yourself a little cheer (or maybe a cookie). You’re building habits that will make the holiday season smoother, lighter, and a lot more joyful. I’m so grateful you’re here, showing up each day with intention. Come Christmas, you’ll feel calm, prepared, and proud of the effort you’ve put in.

Day 13: Double Up and Plan Ahead

Today’s challenge is about working smarter in the kitchen. As you cook over the next few weeks, double up on recipes and freeze the extras for later. You’ll thank yourself when December gets hectic and dinner practically makes itself. little planning now means one less thing to juggle when the season hits full speed.

Action Step

Double up on your favorite meals this week. Enjoy one now, freeze the other for a busy night later.
Choose dishes that reheat well. Soups, casseroles, and pasta bakes are great options.
Write the name and date on each container so you’ll know exactly what’s what when you open the freezer.

No Homework, Just Resources

No forms or checklists today. Just a few cozy reads for inspiration when you’re ready to relax with a cup of something warm.

34 Ways to Make Fabulous Meals from Leftovers: Turn “same old” into something special. Think hearty soups, Mediterranean wraps, and even potato doughnuts (yes, really).
How to Turn Leftovers into Awesome Homemade Soup: Easy recipes, including Thursday Night Soup, where almost anything can get a second act.
How to Get Clever with Leftovers: Reinvent mashed potatoes into crispy cakes or savory pie toppings.
Easy Chicken Divan Recipe: A comforting make-ahead meal that’s freezer-friendly and always a crowd-pleaser.
Rotisserie Chicken Salad (or Turkey Salad!) for Busy Days: Perfect for quick lunches when the to-do list grows faster than your appetite.

Why It Matters

Life gets busy, especially in the final stretch before Christmas. Doubling up now means fewer last-minute scrambles and more evenings spent enjoying what matters most. You’ll save money, cut down on waste, and glide into the holidays with one less thing on your plate (pun absolutely intended).

More Ways to Participate in #EC40DayChallenge:

Question: What’s your favorite make-ahead or freezer-friendly meal? Share your ideas in the comments. You might just inspire someone else to try it!

Bonus: Snap a photo of your best “double-up” dinner or neatly labeled freezer stash and share it with #EC40DayChallenge. It’s the perfect reminder that planning ahead can be both satisfying and simple.