1 1/2 c. water
1 c. oil
2 c. sugar
2 c. raisins
8 oz. dates
1 tsp. baking soda
3 c. flour
1 tbsp. cinnamon
1 tbsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. salt
3 c. oatmeal
2 c. whole nuts

Bring water, oil, sugar, raisins and dates to a boil. Cook 5 minutes, then add soda.

While boiling the above, combine flour, spices, oatmeal and nuts in a large bowl. Pour in hot ingredients; mix well. Drop by teaspoonful onto cookie sheet. Bake in 375 degree oven 12-15 minutes. (Ovens vary, so you may want to test for doneness. Do not overcook.) Store in a tight container. Makes at least 3 dozen cookies. These freeze very well.