1. Pour the milk and water into a 2-quart saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grits while stirring and then add the salt.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring every few minutes until the grits start to thicken after about 20 minutes.  Continue to cook and stir until they are thick and creamy, the time will depend on the type of grits used.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and add the half and half, stirring until the liquid is absorbed and the mixture thickens again.  Salt again to taste.

*For cheese grits, add 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese to grits and stir until incorporated.