1 1/2 c. raisins
1 c. water
3/4 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
2 c. oatmeal
1/2 c. nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Simmer raisins in 1 cup water until plump. Drain liquid in bowl and save. Mix shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Then stir in 1/2 cup raisin liquid. Sift in flour with baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices. Blend in well. Add oatmeal, nuts and raisins. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly brown.