Boil for 5 minutes 2 cups of raisins in enough water to cover. Let cool.

2 c. sugar
1 c. shortening
3 eggs
4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Beat sugar, shortening and eggs. Add dry ingredients and raisins. Drop by teaspoon onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees.