1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. butter
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 (12 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate pieces or
2 c. candy-coated milk chocolate pieces
1 c. walnuts, pecans or hazelnuts, chopped

In large bowl, beat shortening and butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for about 30 seconds, or until softened. Add about half of the flour to shortening mixture. Then add brown sugar, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and baking soda. Beat thoroughly. Beat or stir in remaining flour. Stir in chocolate pieces. If desired, stir in nuts. Drop dough from a rounded teaspoon 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Makes about 60 cookies.