This is simple, really, but honestly, oatmeal is so very satisfying.  In this day of instant everything – including oatmeal, some are a little daunted still by making it from scratch.  Well put all worries aside, oatmeal is a dish that cannot be flubbed. Perfect for those chilly mornings, whether off to school, or the ski hill, this will warm like nothing can.

Forgive me for the random measurements, but like I said, you cannot flub this.

In a heavy pot on stove, bring approx. 4 cups of water to a boil.  When in a rolling boil, turn down the heat to medium and stir in about 2 cups of plain oatmeal (whole or regular oats). Add in 1/4 cup of packed dark brown sugar, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/4 cup (or a little less if you like the oatmeal less sweet) maple syrup, raisins and chopped walnuts to desired amount.  My family likes plenty of raisins.  Turn heat to low and continue to stir.  If oatmeal gets too thick, just add more water.  If too thin, simply add a little more oats.  Oatmeal will thicken the longer it sits at the stove. Serve in deep bowls drizzled with extra maple syrup.