Carrot Raisin Muffins

1 cup raisins
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
optional spices: cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, 1/4-1 tsp each, depending on how adventurous you are!
4 eggs
1/2 cup butter or coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 cups shredded carrots (really pack it in the measuring cup)

Put the raisins in a bowl and cover with warm water. Let them soak while you prepare your other ingredients. This will prevent them from burning while in the oven.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients. To save on washing dishes, make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the eggs and beat them gently. Add the oil and milk and mix all together until just moistened, then fold in the raisins and carrots. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full and bake at 350 degrees F for 20-22 minutes, until the muffins spring back when lightly touched.