1 c. water
1 c. raisin
1 c. white sugar
1 c. brown sugar
1 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
5 tbsp. reserved raisin water
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt (optional)
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
2 c. oatmeal
1 c. nuts, chopped (optional)

Cook raisins in water until tender. Drain; reserve liquid. Cream shortening and sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine all dry ingredients and add. Add reserved raisin water. Stir in oatmeal, raisins and nuts. Drop on lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes or until golden brown.