Combine the oats, flax, milk and water (or all milk) in a sauce pot over medium heat on the stove. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

After about 5 minutes, reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the remaining ingredients

Continue cooking (reduce to low as it thickens) stirring constantly, until desired thickness is reached. Takes a total of about 20-25 minutes of cook time. Oats will be chewy, but cooked.

Serve with a splash of additional milk, chopped pecans and a little brown sugar.

NOTE: You can substitute old fashioned oats instead of steel cut oats. All milk will give you a really thick oatmeal, I prefer the water and milk combo instead.