Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

¾ cup brown sugar
¾ cup white sugar
1 cup shortening
2 eggs
1 tsp. hot water
1 tsp. vanilla
1½ cups flour
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. salt
2 cups oatmeal
1 pkg. (12 oz.) chocolate chips
2 cups chopped nuts (optional)


Cream sugar and shortening. Add eggs, beating after each addition. Add hot water and vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients. Add oatmeal, chocolate chips, and nuts. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375° for 12 to 15 minutes.

Makes about 6 dozen.