I have an image of what my mornings should look like. It mirrors something similar to Stepford wife status or at least the way magazines depict things. But, as many military spouses know, mornings often start with our spouses waking up at an unglamorous hour for PT. That is when I try to start my day as well, with try being the operative word.

After a workout (if I don’t sleep in), I hurry to take care of my 13-year-old puppy, get myself dressed, and out the door to make it to work on time. This often leaves little time to prepare a luxurious breakfast like omelets or pancakes. Instead, I grab whatever I can to eat in the car as I drive to work or to eat as soon as I get to work. Often the luxury of eating at home is out of the question.

If this sounds familiar to you then I have great news for you. I have four convenient breakfast options that you can put together quickly and grab as you go out the door. Many of these can be made the night before so have no fear of having to wake up and bake something. Believe me, you don’t want to do that!

Overnight Oats

A few months ago, Michele asked me to photograph some oatmeal for Three Breakfast Alternatives to Boxed Cereal. Since then, I have enjoyed eating oatmeal for my breakfast when I have time. Then I ran across this Overnight Oats post on Pinterest. I couldn’t believe it…a fast way to have oatmeal. It was perfect for my schedule. I just put everything together at night and then grab it in the morning!

Smoothie

Consuming any color of smoothie is a great way to get the nutrients you need to start your day. Many mornings I am running around, but still manage to find less five minutes to throw some greens, a banana, some berries, plain yogurt, and some powder supplements into a blender for a delicious on-the-go breakfast. If you are looking for delicious smoothie recipes, try Emira’s Mango Green Tea Smoothie or Addison’s Dates and Coco Smoothie. If you need more ideas check out our Pinterest Board. To make smoothies portable, I like carrying them in a Mason jar.

Muffins

Sunday morning usually means that we’ll take more time making breakfast. I am a sucker for a delicious breakfast and have a fantastic husband who spoils me by making me breakfast on the weekends. Sometimes this even means he makes some delicious muffins, usually containing seasonal fruit. Leftover muffins are great to have throughout the week when I am flying out the door. So try making Kimberly’s Morning Glory Muffins or this delicious Papaya Muffin recipe I came across when I did my Papaya Food Challenge.

Spinach, Goat Cheese, and Bread

Recently my husband turned me on to this quick and easy treat. Simply spread goat cheese on your choice of bread or a sliced roll then add spinach. It is as simple as that. You don’t even have to toast the bread if you don’t have time. I also like taking this as a snack to have in the afternoon to get me through the rest of the work day.

What easy on-the-go items do you enjoy having? I am always up for new ideas. Share yours in the comments below.