3/4 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. white sugar
1 egg
1/4 c. water
1 tsp. vanilla
3 c. oatmeal
1 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda

Beat together shortening, sugars, egg, water and vanilla until creamy. Add combined remaining ingredients; mix well. Drop by teaspoon on greased sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes.

For variety, add chopped nuts, raisins, chocolate chips, coconut or butterscotch chips.