Well we had a blast at Thanksgiving with my family. We all stayed at my parents’ house and my siblings and their spouses and family all came to town. We played games, did a 2000 piece puzzle, went to the zoo lights, and had STUMP FEST (where we decorate our Christmas tree stumps from years past). The kids had a blast playing with their cousins. They were all crying when they left for the airport today (so was I!)
I felt like I was ahead of the Christmas rush this year having already bought most of my Christmas gifts and finished my cards and calendars, but then 4 swaps got added to my calendar. So close. My first one is this weekend and I can’t wait to share you one of the things I made for it. Not yet though! We had our first snow of the year on Tuesday and I’ve been thinking warm thoughts and cooking warm meals. Patricia has had hot cocoa 3 times already this season! (Though I haven’t made any of it.)
Speaking of hot cocoa… when camping I started buying the little prepackaged bags of oatmeal because it was easier. I like the Kodiak brand because it has slightly less sugar, and supposedly more protein (not sure how). Julius and I decided we preferred the chocolate chip version. I decided that I could make that for way cheaper (and plastic free). Julius has eaten several variants, as have I. I decided this is my favorite version. It’s reminiscent of a hot cocoa oatmeal… Note that powdered milk has a lot of sugar in it. That’s where most of the sweetness comes from in this recipe, but the mini chocolate chips add a little pop of sweetness. I don’t think this is cloyingly sweet though, and those used to the grocery store version may be disappointed. Fair warning. And full confession – I eat it after the kids go to bed as a dessert sometimes.
Hot Cocoa Oatmeal
- 1/4 cup quick oats
- 1 tsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp powdered milk
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp mini chocolate chips
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup boiling water (to preference)
Mix all ingredients except water. When ready to serve either pour boiling water over and let stand (covered ideally) for 5 minutes. Or pour room temp water over and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Pour milk on top if desired when serving.
