Honey Oatmeal Wheat Bread

3 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
3/4 cup warm water
2 packages dry yeast
1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
1/3 cup oil
2 teaspoons salt
3 cups wheat flour -- (3 to 4)
4 cups flour -- (4 to 5)

Pour boiling water over oatmeal in large mixing bowl; cool to lukewarm.

Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand until foamy. Add yeast to oatmeal mixture. Add honey or brown sugar and oil. Blend well. Add salt.

Add whole wheat flour, stirring well after each addition. Gradually add flour, forming soft dough. Turn out onto floured board and knead 5-10 minutes.

Place dough in greased bowl, cover with damp towel and let rise until doubled. Punch down and form dough into 3 loaves. Let rise about 20 minutes.