Cheap Oatmeal

Pre-packaged, pre-flavored oatmeals are convenient but overpriced. You can do that yourself by preparing ahead of time. I like to keep a stash of dried fruits such as raisins, strawberries, apricots, and cherries nearby. I fill a bowl with oatmeal and my choice of fruits. Then I add already boiled water. Or I dump the oatmeal and my choice of fruit in a 2-quart saucepan with milk and bring it to a simmer until it's ready.