start the day with oatmeal*

i love oatmeal!!!!!!!!!!!!

here's a quick, easy, and not to mention tasty, way to fix whole grain oatmeal. optimum nutrition = whole grains. when you eat grains that have been processed and broken down, you miss out on all the nutrition they have to offer. so called "instant" oatmeals you find in the store are NOT whole grains. making whole grain oatmeal usually requires a big commitment. a commitment to stand and constantly stir over a boiling pot for at least 10 minutes. now i love to cook, but in the morning i need something i can fix in a hurry. i'm not sure how i came up with this recipe, but it's quite awesome, if i do say so myself.

this is what you need:

1/2 cup whole grain oatmeal
boiling water
100% apple juice
cinnamon
ground flax seeds
soy milk
raisins

place dry oatmeal in a bowl. pour a small amount of boiling water over the grains. do not cover oats entirely just enough to make a small pool of liquid in the bottom. let the oats absorb the water. here's you chance to multitask and take a few minutes to tend to other things. when all the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes later, sprinkle with a generous amount of cinnamon. add a bit of apple juice, just enough to make it slightly soupy. if you like raisins add them now as well. nuke it in the microwave for a minute or two on high. the apple juice should be fully reduced. now add a handful of ground flax seeds and stir well. lastly add a bit of soy milk for creaminess. top with crushed walnuts or pecans for added crunch and protein. enjoy!!!