1/2 cup shortening (Crisco)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp. water
1/2 tsp. vanilla
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 3/4 cups quick-cooking oats
1 cup chopped dates
1 cup chopped nuts
1 1/4 cups chocolate chips (optional)

Cream together shortening and sugar. Add egg, water and vanilla. Mix baking soda and salt with flour; add to first mixture. Add oatmeal, dates, nuts and chips (if desired). Drop by tablespoons onto greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Submitted by: Shelly